There's Always HOPE: 1-866-695-HOPE Line Decreases Anxiety, Expedites Care
For one 63-year-old man, the HOPE line was just that — a much-needed rope to help climb through what could have been a nightmare. Actively raising his grandchildren and working full-time, his family physician recommended he see a cancer specialist.
He was told to call 1-866-695-HOPE (1-866-695-4673), which connects patients who have or may have cancer to a Crozer-Keystone cancer specialist. Although apprehensive and nervous, he called the HOPE line and, within 24 hours, he had an appointment to see a specialist.
A Crozer-Keystone cancer specialist gave him a plan and hope, for which he will always be grateful.
The HOPE line began to help patients receive easier access to cancer physicians. The line is a number that individuals can call to reach an operator, who will listen to their concerns and/or work with them to obtain a prompt appointment with an oncology specialist — typically within 48 hours.
All Crozer-Keystone specialists are connected to the HOPE line, including:
Perhaps you just have questions regarding cancer and/or cancer care — call the HOPE line! Perhaps you need a screening, second opinion, you just found out you had cancer or your doctor suspects you do and you need to be referred to a physician — call the HOPE line!
Callers seeking an appointment can ask for a specific physician and/or specific hospital — the more specific the preference, however, the longer the possible delay. One recent caller was being treated in New Jersey and wanted a second opinion with a Delaware County Memorial Hospital (DCMH) oncologist. He called on Wednesday and, because he was flexible in whom he saw, he was given an appointment on Friday. After touring the Cancer Center, he transferred all his care to DCMH.
The ability to match up patients and doctors so quickly speaks volumes to the commitment to care at Crozer-Keystone Health System and those doctors most closely tied to cancer care.
When You Go
Once you receive an appointment to see a specialist, here are a few tips to help you prepare for the appointment:
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Take a family member or friend with you so you don't miss anything the physician says
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Keep a log of what tests are done, where they are done and the dates
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Make a list of questions that you have for your physicians
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Make a list of medications, including doses, times taken and for what reason
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Know the names, addresses and phone numbers of the physicians you are seeing
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Keep a journal or log of your cancer journey and experience
To schedule an appointment with a Crozer-Keystone Cancer specialist or if you have cancer questions, call the HOPE line, 1-866-695-HOPE (1-866-695-4673), or visit http://ckcancer.crozer.org.