Cancer Care (Oncology)

What is cancer?

Cancer is a term used for a disease when there is an abnormal cell growth that has the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Your blood stream and lymph system are ways cancer cells spread to other body parts.

How is Cancer Care provided?

At Horizon, we understand every person is different, therefore individualized care to each person is important to us. If you are referred to our services by your family physician or primary health care provider, you will work with your Horizon oncologist to choose a treatment plan specific to your cancer and what is best for you.

You and/or your loved one may be visiting one or more of our facilities to receive treatments and support as part of your cancer care journey with members of our team of health care professionals. Our clinical cancer care team includes oncologists, radiation oncologists, general practitioners in oncology, oncology registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, pharmacists, radiation therapists, physicists, dosimetrists, dietitians, physiotherapists, patient experience advisors, and support staff from our survivorship programs.

Cancer treatments are decided based on your type of cancer, health history, current overall health status, extent of spread (stage), and personal situation and wishes. Treatments can be given alone or in combination with other treatments.

How do I access cancer care services?

If you are concerned about your health, please talk with your family physician or primary health care provider. You may then be referred to us for testing and follow-up treatment if needed.

How do I prepare for cancer care services?

Cancer can be a difficult and stressful illness. Many people experience distress during their cancer experience. This is because cancer affects more than just your body – it can affect many parts of your life such as your emotions, your work, your finances, and your relationship with your family and friends. Distress can be described in many ways. Some people describe stress as a general feeling of discomfort or upset.

To better understand how you are feeling and coping with your cancer, your health care team will ask you to complete a short survey between your first visit with the oncologist and your first cancer drug treatment or radiation treatment. Your answers will help us provide you with the best care possible. This information will become part of your health record. It will be available to your health care team.

New Patients

Your First Visit with the Oncologist

Most people meet the oncologist for the first time in an oncology clinic. A few people may meet the oncologist for the first time as an in-patient. It helps to be prepared for your first visit in the oncology clinic. Please bring the following with you:

• your Medicare card
• all your medications, so that the nurse can review them with you
• the names and telephone numbers (work and home) of two personal contact people
• your health history such as surgeries, medical conditions
• a list of any allergies that you may have
• any questions you may have (we suggest writing these down)
• a friend or family member (Note: If requested, an interpreter may be booked when contacted by the oncology clinic with your appointment.)

During Treatment

Nutrition

Ask your nurse or doctor to see the dietitian if you are having difficulty eating, drinking or if you are losing weight. Nutrition is important in cancer care. It helps decrease treatment side effects and maintain your weight.

I feel unwell and have questions about side effects I am experiencing after my treatment. Who can help?

Please contact your health care provider at any stage of your cancer care journey should you have any questions or concerns. This is applicable for patients who are part of the Oncology Service. Once patients are discharged from the Oncology Service, they would go through their primary health care provider (family physician, nurse practitioner, etc.) If you have an urgent health need, the following options are available:

If you have a medical emergency, please call 911 or proceed to your nearest Emergency Department.

Call Tele-Care 811 for health advice from a registered nurse.

Cancer Care Programs