We’re here to meet every patient’s needs

To help overcome the challenges that get in the way of needed treatment, Grady offers every patient support from a navigator. Navigators can be social workers, nurse navigators, clinic nurses, or patient navigators supported by the American Cancer Society. They guide patients and their families through the complexities of cancer treatment and can:

• Connect you with the right Grady resource to address your needs
• Provide information about your diagnosis
• Share educational materials to help you understand your condition

Beyond medical issues, navigators can help patients with other situations that can intrude on treatments – like arranging transportation for a patient to help them keep appointments or help those in economic need to apply for financial support.

Our oncology social worker improves the quality of life for patients and their loved ones by helping them manage financial concerns, access community resources, and adjust to their diagnosis and communicate it with family and friends. The social worker addresses non-medical issues that can complicate treatment for cancer patients.

Our oncology registered dietitian helps oncology patients get the right nutrition before, during, and after treatment by offering nutrition counseling and meal plans, programs and classes, and tube feeding management.

Our psychologist is here to support you through the emotional challenges that can come with a cancer diagnosis. Counseling provides a safe space for you and your loved ones to navigate feelings, strengthen communication, and build coping strategies for both the present and the future. Whether you’re seeking comfort, guidance, or practical tools for managing stress, we’re here to help.

Chaplains dedicated to serving hospital patients are available to provide spiritual counseling and support. Nondenominational and interfaith in approach, chaplains offer patients, family members, and caregivers a chance to reflect on their spiritual concerns and gain strength from their beliefs. Grady’s Goddard Chapel also provides patients and loved ones a place for prayer, worship and quiet time.

Different cancers and their treatments may produce symptoms and side effects that can create difficulties for patients. We offer programs to help patients overcome them, including:

• Cancer-Related Fatigue: Grady offers fatigue-management assistance provided by a physical therapist.
• Voice, Throat, Memory Issues: These problems, which are common in cases of head and neck cancer, can be improved with the help of speech and language pathologists.
• Lymphedema Management: Lymphedema or swelling often occurs following cancer surgeries or radiation treatments. This swelling may range from mild to severe and sometimes causes discomfort. Grady’s certified lymphedema specialists provide treatment to help you feel better.
• Post-Surgery Arm Conditions: Breast cancer patients often require physical therapy to improve their arm motion and strength. Grady physical therapists help patients restore maximum mobility.

Grady offers affordable screenings to detect disease before clinical signs or symptoms appear. The goal is to find cancer early, when it’s most treatable. Screenings are available for the following cancers:

• Breast
• Colon
• Lung
• Prostate
• Skin

Exams include mammograms, prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood tests, colonoscopies, skin cancer and low-dose CT scans for lung cancer. For more information or to schedule a screening, call (404) 616-1000.

Our support groups connect cancer patients with peers and medical professionals for guidance, encouragement, and shared experiences. Multiple groups meet each month:

• Radiation Oncology Support Group
• New Beginning Breast Cancer Support Group
• The New You Survivorship Clinic Support Group
• Cancer General Support Group
• New Patient Orientation

If you’re looking for more information about our support groups, ask your navigator or check the Cancer Center calendar for schedule details.

Cancer treatment can bring changes to your body that may feel unfamiliar or challenging.  To help patients cope with these changes, the center provides special services and products, including mastectomy bras, foam and silicone breast prosthesis, camisoles, wigs, and lymphedema compression garments. Some products may be available at no cost. Please talk to your navigator or social worker for a referral.

We understand that you may have a lot of questions about your diagnosis and treatment. While your medical team can offer a lot of useful information, you may want to learn more. Grady offers two important sources of information:

• Cancer Center Library. The cancer center’s library has many resources to answer your questions about cancer, treatment, coping and general health concerns.
• Patient Education Seminars. An education and event calendar is always available at check-in or in the waiting room.

A cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. We’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Chaplains dedicated to serving hospital patients are available to provide spiritual counseling and support. Nondenominational and interfaith in approach, chaplains offer patients, family members, and caregivers a chance to reflect on their spiritual concerns and gain strength from their beliefs. Grady’s Goddard Chapel also provides patients and loved ones a place for prayer, worship and quiet time.

One way we ensure the best care experience is through the Patient & Family Advisory Council. This group brings together patients, family members, and caregivers to collaborate with Grady staff, helping to improve safety, quality, and overall patient experience. Volunteer Advisors meet monthly to share insights and shape policies and programs that enhance cancer care. Their involvement helps:

• Improve care services
• Increase patient and staff satisfaction
• Bring new perspectives to health care operations

Former and current Cancer Center patients, family members, and care partners are encouraged to participate. To learn more about becoming a Patient-Family Advisor, call (404) 489-9161.
Looking for more information? Download our free Patient Guide for even more information about our process and values.