By: Lauren McRae

Cancer patients, particularly those currently undergoing treatment, may be anxious about coming into the hospital for care needs during this challenging time. And, we know it’s critical to remain connected with your oncologist and have routine visits to monitor your health. 

Bruce Brockstein, MD, Department of Medicine Medical Director, NorthShore Kellogg Cancer Center Division Head, Hematology/Oncology, shares information about extra safety measures in place, including Telehealth options, to continue to provide the best possible care for all our patients while keeping you safe. “How we’re approaching care today looks very different than it did earlier this year,” he says. “ We know the effect of COVID-19 on cancer patients, especially those currently undergoing treatment, is significantly greater than on the general population.”

To keep all of our staff and patients safe, we have made some changes to our visitor policy and have implemented extra safety measures:

1. We are screening all of our patients for COVID-19 symptoms by phone prior to coming into our facilities.
2. When clinically appropriate, we will conduct initial visits or follow-up visits by telehealth using video or by phone call.
3. We are asking our patients coming in for a treatment or visit to come in alone. We are happy to include family or other caregivers in a phone or video call to ensure they’re part of the conversation.
4. Patients are required to wear a mask. If you don’t have one, we will provide one for you.
5. Our staff will be wearing masks and eye shields before, during and aftercare.
6. Everything we do takes into account the safety of our patients, our staff, and most importantly, the optimization of outcomes regardless of current circumstances.

Through these measures and our patients and staff also following safety guidelines outside the Kellogg Cancer Center, we have maintained a very safe environment!

To schedule a telemedicine or in-person appointment with your Kellogg Cancer Center physician, please contact your physician via NorthShoreConnect, or call the Kellogg Cancer Center at 847-570-2112.