Why Choose NorthShore University HealthSystem for Genitourinary Cancer Care?
If you have been diagnosed with bladder, kidney, penile, prostate, testicular or other cancers of the genitourinary system, you are probably facing a multitude of questions about the care you need and the physicians who will provide it. The Chicago area has such a vast array of cancer-care options, that it’s often difficult to know what’s truly important.
What do patients appreciate most about cancer care at NorthShore University HealthSystem? Here are a few things that our physicians and nurses are asked about most often:
Treatment Options
In deciding on a plan of treatment for genitourinary cancers, there are many options. Deciding on the best option for your personal cancer care can be challenging and confusing. One powerful influence is the physician's recommendation - advice formed not only by test results, but also by consideration of a patient's age, general health, lifestyle, life expectancy and hopes for the future. It also helps to know that this treatment plan was developed with the combined input of a multidisciplinary team of experts. Still, saying "yes" to any treatment option is a difficult step. For some, the options are plentiful; for others, limited. At NorthShore University HealthSystem, your team of physicians will work with you to develop a treatment course specifically for you and your cancer.
A Whole Team Dedicated to Your Care
Every patient who comes to NorthShore University HealthSystem for treatment of a genitourinary cancer receives the attention of not one physician, but an entire team of specialists. Composed of urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, oncology nurses and other support specialists, this care team holds a special conference to discuss the diagnosis, state and, most importantly, appropriate treatment for each person diagnosed with cancer. This "meeting of the minds" helps to design a custom care plan that is most beneficial for each individual patient. The team emerges from these conferences with a consensus recommendation that predicts which treatment would provide the best possible outcome while minimizing side effects that may affect quality of life. The physicians of NorthShore University HealthSystem are nationally recognized experts in their respective disciplines who work together as a team. Rapid and effective communication between physicians at NorthShore University HealthSystem is made easier with a fully computerized medical record system that provides each patient's medical information at the touch of a button.
Caring for the "Whole Patient"
Living with the diagnosis of cancer can be stressful. However, through our Psychosocial Oncology program, we can ease these stresses through counseling of both patients and their loved ones. At NorthShore University HealthSystem, a team from CORE (Center for Outcomes Research and Education) dedicates itself to assessing and managing side effects and quality-of-life issues during the treatment period and in the months that follow.