The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program has received a grant from the Plastic Surgery Foundation to enable the program to provide information about breast reconstruction.
The funds will be used to create bilingual educational materials in print and online.
Two bilingual social workers regularly meet with breast cancer patients at the Nassau University Medical Center Breast and Oncology Clinic and address disparities in mortality by providing psychosocial support, counseling, patient navigation and concrete services to underserved patients.
“This additional funding from the Plastic Surgery Foundation will allow us to enhance the dialogue between the social workers and patients about breast reconstruction, as this is an option and right that many women are not aware of, specifically underserved populations,” Reyna Machado, assistant director of the Adelphi program, said.
Federal law signed in 1998 requires health group insurance plans to cover breast reconstruction and New York State requires healthcare professionals to discuss reconstruction with patients prior to cancer removal surgery.
Bilingual social workers address barriers that interfere with the continuity of treatment including transportation, food, legal services and financial needs. Efforts are made to connect patients to community agencies and coalitions and help facilitate applications.
In addition, patients are offered the opportunity to address issues related to reconstruction. Each patient is encouraged to explore her unique feelings and needs surrounding her breast cancer diagnosis and upcoming surgery.
By providing a safe place to discuss body image, intimacy, and fears, each patient is enabled to make an informed decision reflecting her unique needs. Social Workers are also available to support each patient throughout the process and help to facilitate ongoing communication with her plastic surgeon and treatment team.
The Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program provides information and emotional support to breast cancer patients, their families and the communities. To reach the hotline, call (800)877-8077.
