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Hearing the news that you or a loved one have been diagnosed with prostate cancer can feel overwhelming and scary, but you’re not alone.
There are many avenues of support for those impacted by prostate cancer.
At Rio Grande Urology, we’re here for you. In addition to working with you or your loved one on a treatment plan, we want to ensure you’re getting the additional support for prostate cancer that you need, including emotional, mental, and financial assistance. We advise all our patients to reach out for any help you may need — it can make a significant difference in your overall health and recovery. Here are a few places to start:
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Understand Your Treatment Plan
Diagnosing prostate cancer starts with a PSA screening to measure your prostate-specific antigen levels. Depending on your levels, your doctor may recommend additional tests. Depending on the stage of the cancer and your individual health needs, your doctor will then work with you to identify a course of action to treat and monitor the cancer.
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Throughout this process, it’s important to remember that your physician is available to answer any questions regarding your treatment plan. At RGU, providing our patients with the highest level of care includes walking alongside you to ensure you understand each step of the process and what you can start doing to protect your health.
Prostate cancer treatments may include:
- Active surveillance
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery
- Oral oncolytics
If you’re receiving oral oncolytics or other medication to support your treatment, you can get it from the RGU Pharmacy. Our pharmacist will walk you through your regimen and check in regularly with you and your physician to see how you are progressing and if you are experiencing any side effects. It’s one of the benefits of receiving treatment at RGU — our team works closely together to support your health care plan.
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Connect with a Support Group
While loved ones want to do everything they can to help those battling prostate cancer, it helps to talk with people who understand what you’re going through. About 1 in 9 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime — it’s an unfortunate reality, but it also means there are others you can connect who can listen, advise, and encourage you. If you’re not sure where to start, reach out to our staff for recommendations on support for prostate cancer.
Support groups are available for caregivers and loved ones as well. Providing care for a man with prostate cancer can be a new experience and sometimes present challenges as you strive to support their treatment and overall wellness. It’s important for caregivers to ensure they are taking care of their mental, emotional, and physical health as well. A support group can help!
RGU recommends reaching out to the following support groups, which are available at no cost to patients and families:
- ZERO360: Comprehensive Patient Support: This free service helps patients and families navigate insurance and financial obstacles to help cover treatment. Call 1-844-244-1309 (Toll-Free) or visit zerocancer.org/zero360/.
- Prostate Cancer Support Network: This Facebook-based community of prostate cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and loved ones share stories, provide support, and offer encouragement to one another. Visit facebook.com/groups/zeroconnect to join.
- MENtor: Peer Support: This support group helps connect men who are newly diagnosed with prostate cancer, as well as those with a recurrence of prostate cancer, with mentors who have insights to share based on their personal journeys. Learn more at zerocancer.org/mentor/.
- ZERO Veterans Program: Veterans are at high-risk for prostate cancer. This group aims to help connect veterans with the resources, tools, and education to fight prostate cancer. Visit zerocancer.org/veterans to learn more.
- Caregiver Connector: This peer-to-peer support program helps connect caregivers who are currently caring for someone or who have lost someone to prostate cancer with those who have been in a similar position. Learn more at zerocancer.org/caregiver-connector/.
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Talk with a Counselor
In addition to support groups, one-on-one counseling with a therapist or oncology social worker can also help provide a deeper level of support as you process what it means to have and be treated for prostate cancer. These specialists are equipped to help support your mental and emotional health from early diagnosis and throughout your journey.
Don’t wait to seek out assistance! Talking with someone early in the process can be beneficial to your overall health.
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Seek Out Financial Assistance
We understand that health care costs can be daunting and you may need additional financial support for your treatment plan. In addition to insurance, you might qualify for additional support for your medical expenses. Start by checking out the resources available at ZERO360. The staff at RGU can also help you navigate insurance questions and connect you with groups that provide financial assistance as support for prostate cancer. Cost shouldn’t impact your ability to get the care you need, and we want to make sure you know your options.
These are just a sampling of the resources available to you and your loved ones when facing the realities of prostate cancer. Let us know how the RGU team can help you connect to the support you need.
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