Cancer (Oncology)

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Many people with cancer fear that the pain associated with their illness will not be controlled. Almost all cancer patients are able to have their pain controlled with medication, interventional pain procedures, or both.

Greenwich Hospital’s pain physicians provide evaluations on an outpatient basis and for those admitted to the hospital. A physician referral is required. The type of cancer and its location will determine the best method of reducing pain. Patients may also experience pain from some of the cancer treatment they receive. Other treatments for cancer, such as radiation, may reduce pain dramatically.

Our pain physicians understand that each person is unique in their ability to cope with pain and maintain their level of function. We work closely with patients to produce a plan that is flexible and efficient. Difficulties with fatigue, mood and sleep may also influence pain and the ability to tolerate it. These symptoms are addressed for the best possible outcomes.

Greenwich Pain Consulting Services treats patients undergoing current treatment or are in remission and facing side effects from past treatment. Patients seeking medical treatment for pain will meet with a physician who specializes in interventional pain medicine and an APRN who helps with medication management.

The care team develops, monitors, and modifies the medication regimen for patients with chronic pain. Medications to relieve pain include medical marijuana. Patients and families are provided education about the safe use of pain medications. A physician referral is required.

Our specialists at Greenwich Hospital’s Center for Pain Management are available to care for patients admitted to the hospital or on an outpatient basis. A physician referral is required.

Procedures to reduce pain include alcohol nerve blocks for severe cancer pain that is unmanaged by medication, implanted infusion pumps, spinal cord stimulators and others. In some situations, these techniques enable patients to lower their pain medications.

Learn more about pain management at Greenwich Hospital

The Stephen and Betsy Corman Center for Palliative Care at Greenwich Hospital is dedicated to the care and comfort of seriously ill patients and their families. Palliative care focuses on symptom and pain management and quality of life issues for adult patients with complex, chronic or terminal illnesses at any stage of the illness. Working to relieve symptoms, pain and stress, the palliative care team helps families understand the pros and cons of various procedures, medications and letting nature take its course.

Learn more about palliative care at Greenwich Hospital

Greenwich Hospital offers a full range of rehabilitation services to help cancer patients through all phases of cancer.

Whether newly diagnosed or long finished with treatment, cancer patients receive customized, comprehensive therapy provided by a specially trained team of professionals.

Learn more about cancer rehabilitation at Greenwich Hospital

The Smilow Screening and Prevention Program brings together doctors and researchers at Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center who are focused on merging the best science with the best cancer prevention and screening programs. Our goal is to provide patients throughout Connecticut with the tools they need to stay healthy.

Learn more about cancer screening and prevention programs

A diagnosis of cancer can be stressful to you and your family. Smilow Cancer Hospital has Licensed Clinical Social Workers available to help you to manage your feelings and concerns throughout your cancer care, especially during this challenging time. In addition, our social workers also facilitate many support groups available virtually for your participation. Support groups provide the opportunity to receive emotional and educational support and to talk with others who are undergoing similar treatment or who have successfully completed treatment.

Learn more about cancer support groups