Your Guide To

Cancer Patient Information Peter LougheedCentre Holy CrossCentre Tom BakerCancerCentre Your Guidetothe Peter Lougheed Centre Holy Cross Cancer Centre Tom Baker Centre My Health Care Team

Medical Oncologist

Radiation Oncologist

Surgical Oncologist

Other Physicians

Primary Nurse

Dietitian

Social Worker

Psychologist

Other

CancerControl Alberta uses a team approach to your healthcare. This means you may be cared for by a number of healthcare professionals after you choose a treatment plan. Welcome to the Tom Baker Cancer Centre

A cancer diagnosis can be a difficult time for everyone involved. We want your first visit at the cancer centre to be as stress-free as possible.

This guide will help answer questions like what you need to bring, where to park, what services are available and will give you other useful information.

We, at CancerControl Alberta, want to provide you with the best care possible. We encourage you to ask your healthcare team any questions you may have and take advantage of available supports and classes so we can work together to achieve this goal.

1 Phone Numbers

Tom Baker Cancer Centre and Holy Cross Centre

If you have questions or concerns related to your chemotherapy treatment, call:

Days 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Chemotherapy Symptoms 403-521-3735 Toll Free 1-866-238-3735

Evenings and Nights 4:00 pm - 8:00 am Foothills Hospital 403-944-1110 Ask for the cancer doctor on call

Main Switchboard (Operator)...... 403-521-3723 Patient Registration and Appointments...... 403-521-3722 Blood and Marrow Transplant Program...... 403-521-3463 Cancer Library (Knowledge Centre)...... 403-521-3765 Chemotherapy Appointments...... 403-521-3303 Chemotherapy Symptoms...... 403-521-3735 Out of Town Patients (toll free)...... 1-866-238-3735 Clinical Ethics Service... 403-943-2821 or 1-855-943-2821 Colposcopy (Betty Flagler Clinic, Holy Cross)...... 403-698-8031 Diagnostic Imaging (Foothills Medical Centre) Radiology/X-ray (SSB)...... 403-944-1132 Nuclear Medicine and PET Scan...... 403-944-1348 MRI...... 403-944-2520

2 Dietitians...... 403-521-3719 Drug Access Coordinator...... 403-521-3656 Healing Arts (Arts in Medicine)...... 403-521-3369 Laboratory Medicine ...... 403-944-1200 Medical Daycare Unit...... see Chemotherapy Appointments Nutrition Services (Dietitians)...... see Dietitians Patient Relations Department...... 1-855-550-2555 Pharmacy...... 403-521-3764 Psychosocial Oncology Psychology...... 403-355-3207 Social Work...... 403-355-3207 Spiritual Care...... 403-521-3352 Radiation Therapy...... 403-521-3771 Rehabilitation Oncology...... 403-698-8169 (Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Lymphedema) Release of Information...... 403-521-3314 Security...... 403-944-3288 Toll-free Number (Chemotherapy Symptoms) . 1-866-238-3735 Volunteer Drivers (Canadian Cancer Society).. 1-800-263-6750

Peter Lougheed Centre Main Switchboard (Operator)...... 403-943-4555 Outpatient Hematology Specialty Clinic...... 403-943-4592 After Hours - Emergency Only...... 403-943-4555 (If your doctor is based at the Peter Lougheed Centre, call this number for emergencies only and ask for the Hematologist on call)

3 Table of Contents 6 Tom Baker Cancer Centre Driving, Public Transportation...... 6 Parking and map...... 7-8 Places to eat in the centre and where to stay ...... 9 Floor Maps ...... 12-17 What you will find (Departments) ...... 10 Blood and Marrow Transplant Chemotherapy (Medical Daycare) Clinics (Outpatients and Medical Daycare) Clinical Trials Unit Diagnostic Imaging (Xrays, CT, etc.)...... 11 Laboratory Services Pharmacy Radiation Therapy ...... 18 Reception (Main)

19 Holy Cross Centre Parking and map...... 19 & 21 Places to eat in the centre ...... 19 What you will find Main Building (2210 2nd St SW) ...... 20 Pharmacy Rehabilitation Oncology...... 21 Family Medicine (2202 2nd St SW)...... 22 Psychosocial Oncology

23 Peter Lougheed Centre Parking and map...... 24 What you will find Floor Map ...... 25 Outpatient Hematology and Treatment...... 26 Laboratory Diagnostic Imaging Outpatient Pharmacy 4 Social Work ...... 27 Spiritual Care Inpatient Unit 38 28 Your First Visit A checklist of what to bring Arriving for your appointment...... 29 29 Meeting Your Healthcare Team

31 Questions about your cancer care

32 Things to Know About Your Treatment Covering the costs of your cancer care Treatments...... 33 Transportation during your treatment...... 34 What to bring to treatments and follow-up 35 Clinical and Support Services Available Dietitians Drug Access Coordinator Clinical Ethics Service Library / Knowledge Centre...... 36 Healing Arts Interpreter Services Pharmacy Services...... 37 Psychosocial Oncology Rehabilitation Oncology Speech and Swallowing...... 38 Spiritual Care Volunteer Driver Program Volunteer Services...... 39 39 Cancer Education

41 Your Rights and Responsibilities 5 Tom Baker Cancer Centre

Address 1331 29 St NW Calgary, AB T2N 4N2 Main Number 403-521-3723 Appointments and Registration 403-521-3722 After Hours You will get a number from your care team

Driving We are attached to the Foothills Medical Centre, on the east side. It is on the corner of 16th Avenue and 29 Street NW.

Public Transportation Call 403-262-1000 for information. Calgary Transit routes 20, 40, 91 and 419 will bring you to the centre.

6 Parking Parking for patients and visitors is available in Lot 1 and Lot 6. Wheelchair accessible spaces are in Lot 1 in front of the centre. 2 hour free parking is available on Toronto Crescent, across 29 Street to the east of the centre.

Where can I get a parking pass? You can get weekly parking passes from the machines inside the entrance of the Tom Baker. If you want a monthly pass, you'll need to fill out a Parking Validation form and take it to the Foothills Parking office. Ask the nurses or clerks at the Cancer Centre for one of these forms.

Parking Office Room 060, Women’s Health Centre/North Tower Foothills Medical Centre Business Hours: 8:00 am–4:00 pm Monday–Friday (closed on holidays) Phone: 403-944-1014 Parking rates apply 24 hours a day

Are there patient drop off and pick up areas? There are 2 drop off and pickup areas at Tom Baker: • The main entrance (north side) • The back entrance (south side; Radiation Therapy entrance)

7 Tom Baker & Foothills Centre Parking Lot Map

8 Places to eat at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre The eateries are in the Foothills Medical Centre (FMC). • The Timberline cafeteria is on the ground floor of the FMC and is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 am– 3:00 pm. • The Garden Deli is on the main floor of the Special Services Building (attached to Tom Baker). It is open 6:30 am–10:00 pm (closes at 8:00 pm on Statutory holidays). • The Good Earth Cafe is in the Foothills Hospital Atrium between the main lobby and Emergency. It is open 24 hours a day. • Vending machines are on the ground floor around the corner from the main FMC elevators. • Volunteers also offer refreshments and cookies throughout the day in the treatment waiting areas at the Cancer Centre.

Places to stay near the Cancer Centre If you live outside of the Calgary area and need a place to stay during your treatments, call the Foothills Medical Centre Patient Hostel at 403-944-1156 or pick up a copy of the booklet “How to Find Accommodation in Calgary” from the pamphlet racks.

9 What you will find (see maps pages 12–17) (departments in alphabetical order)

Blood and Marrow Transplant Program 403-521-3463 • Located on the ground floor • Provides before and after transplant care for patients undergoing blood and marrow transplants

Chemotherapy (Medical Day Care) • Located on the ground floor • Provides Intravenous (IV) chemotherapy treatment for patients and provides support to help you with any side effects you may have during treatment • Appointments and scheduling 403-521-3303 • Chemotherapy Symptoms 403-521-3735 or toll-free for out of town patients 1-866-238-3735

Clinics (Medical Day Care and Outpatients) 403-521-3735 • Located on the ground floor • There are 2 clinic areas at the Tom Baker where you will have your visit with the doctor, nurse and care team

Clinical Trials Unit 403-521-3140 • Located on the basement floor • We do all phases of trials, including trials involving new drugs, vaccines, and treatment

10 • The clinical trials nurse coordinates the clinical trial and is a member of the multidisciplinary team • To learn more about clinical trials, pick up the pamphlet “Participating in a Cancer Clinical Trial” or visit: albertacancerclinicaltrials.ca

Diagnostic Imaging (X-ray, CT Scan and Ultrasound) • X-rays, CT scans and ultrasound appointments are done on the ground floor. Turn left out of the beige Special Services Building elevators. • MRI appointments are on the basement floor.

Laboratory Services (Lab) • Located on the ground floor, around the corner from the Outpatient Clinic area (fast access from the beige Special Services Building elevators). • Blood and specimen tests can be done here. If you can, it's a good idea to visit a lab closer to home. Ask your nurse if this is a good idea for you. If it is, your nurse will give you the forms you need.

Pharmacy Services 403-521-3764 • Located on the ground floor. Turn left out of the silver Tom Baker elevators. • Only cancer treatment prescriptions will be filled here. Fill your prescriptions for side effects and other medicines at your local pharmacy.

11 Fire Exit Only Main Floor Tom Baker Stairs Cancer Centre Pathology Offices

Class Elevators

Room Beige

CC121 Stairs

Offices

Offices Personal Department Well-Being of Oncology Kiosks Offices Knowledge Centre Main Stairs Class (Library) Reception Foothills Room Volunteer Pharmacy CC109 Silver Services and Elevators Garden Deli Gift CHR Stairs Discharge Patient Shop Lounge Board Work Advocate Auditorium Social Room Offices CC104 CC105 Alberta CHR Spiritual Cancer Clinical Main Care Foundation Nutrition Entrance

12 Main Floor

Fire Exit Only Main Floor Tom Baker Stairs Cancer Centre Pathology Offices

Class Elevators

Room Beige

CC121 Stairs

Offices

13 Ground Floor Tom Baker Stairs Cancer Centre Offices Offices A Elevators Beige Stairs

Medical Pharmacy X-Ray Daycare B CT Scan Unit Kitchen Ultrasound (Chemotherapy) Outpatient Clinic C (Consultations) Timberline Pharmacy Cafe and

Reception Foothills Blood Medical Lab Stairs Daycare Reception Silver Elevators Fire Pamphlets Pamphlets Exit Counselling Social Work Reception Stairs Outpatient Reception and

Blood and Marrow Clinic

Transplant Clinic Exit Fire Offices Offices

14 Floor Ground Ground Ground Floor Tom Baker Stairs Cancer Centre Offices Offices A Elevators Beige Stairs

Medical Pharmacy X-Ray Daycare B CT Scan Unit Kitchen Ultrasound (Chemotherapy) Outpatient Clinic C (Consultations) Timberline Pharmacy Cafe and

Reception Foothills Blood Medical Lab Stairs Daycare Reception Silver Elevators Fire Pamphlets Pamphlets Exit Counselling Social Work Reception Stairs Outpatient Reception and

Blood and Marrow Clinic

Transplant Clinic Exit Fire Offices Offices

15 Exit to Ambulance Bay

Cast Fire Exit

To and Only Research Fire Exit RT Clinical Mould Basement Floor Only Unit 1 Tom Baker Simulator Change

Cancer Centre Area Simulator

Procedure Procedure Beige RT Room Offices Unit 2 Elevators Change Stairs

Area Area Exam Treatment Exam RT Unit 3 Room Planning Room Radiosurgery Radiosurgery Exam Basement Reception To MRI Entrance Room and Foothills RT Exam Medical Exam Unit 4 Exam Exit Physics Room Room Exam Operating Dietitian RT Surgery Room Post-

Stairs Radiation Unit 5 Reception Change Ortho Silver Area

Elevators Surgery Pre- Pamphlets Stairs To RT Nurses' Patient Day Unit 10 Change Offices Room Fire Exit Area Only Class Offices Room CCB20

RT RT RT RT 9 Unit 8 Unit 7 Unit 6

16 Exit to Ambulance Bay

Cast Fire Exit Floor

To and Only Research Basement Fire Exit RT Clinical Mould Basement Floor Only Unit 1 Tom Baker Simulator Change

Cancer Centre Area Simulator

Procedure Procedure Beige RT Room Offices Unit 2 Elevators Change Stairs

Stairs Radiation Unit 5 Reception Change Ortho Silver Area

Elevators Surgery Pre- Pamphlets Stairs To RT Nurses' Patient Day Unit 10 Change Offices Room Fire Exit Area Only Class Offices Room CCB20

RT RT RT RT 9 Unit 8 Unit 7 Unit 6

17 Radiation Therapy 403-521-3771 • Located on the basement floor. • We have 10 treatment units staffed by Radiation Therapists. • If radiation therapy is part of your treatment options, therapists and nurses will teach you about what to expect and which unit to go to.

Reception (Main) 403-521-3723 • Located on the main floor, inside the front doors of the Tom Baker. • If you are coming for your first doctor visit, you will check in here and pick up your white identification card. • Once your treatment has started, you do not need to check in here each time. Instead you can check in at the reception desk in the area of your treatment or clinic visit.

18 Holy Cross Centre Many patients will have their first doctor’s visit and follow-up appointments at this centre. There is no treatment (chemotherapy or radiation) at this centre. It is for clinic visits only (doctor/nurse appointments).

See page 20 for address and phone numbers.

Parking Parking for patients and visitors is available in the main lot in between the buildings (wheelchair accessible spaces are located here also). Please see page 20 for the parking map. Some free parking is available in the area as well but only for 2 hours. Please read the signs carefully.

Places to eat at the Holy Cross Centre The Mission Bistro cafeteria is on the ground floor of the Holy Cross Building and is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am–3:00 pm.

19 Holy Cross Centre Address 2210 2nd St SW Calgary, AB T2S 3C3

Main Number 403-521-3723 Appointments and Registration 403-521-3722 After Hours You will be given a number by your care team Colposcopy (G101) 403-698-8031 Psychosocial Oncology 403-355-3207 Building 2202 2nd Street SW (separate building to the north of the main centre) Rehabilitation Oncology 403-698-8169

What you will find in the main building 2210 2nd St SW Oncology Clinics (Ground and 2nd Floors) Two large clinic areas are available for new patient visits, and follow-up visits. Most patients with prostate, breast, lung, colorectal, bladder, kidney and testicular will be first seen at the Holy Cross Centre.

Pharmacy (Ground Floor) Fills prescriptions for cancer treatment drugs only.

20 25th Avenue

To SW Erlton

LRT / Stampede Station

Ambulatory Oncology Clinics 2210 2nd Street SW Staff 24th Parking Avenue

Main Entrance to Clinics

Loading Docks Public Parking side) E S West on

parking N W free hour Staff (2 River Elbow Parking SW Street Psychosocial Entrance 2nd CancerControl Holy Cross Lane SW Lane Cross Holy Resources and Holy Cross Centre Cancer Screening 2202 2nd Street SW 23rd Parking Map Avenue

Psychosocial SW & Screening Parking 22nd SW 21st Avenue Avenue Street 4st SW

Rehabilitation Oncology (2nd floor) This program provides cancer patients with physiotherapy and occupational therapy outpatient services for issues related to their cancer or cancer treatments. The program can also help with managing lymphedema (swelling of a body part) that can sometimes happen after the removal of lymph nodes or radiation treatment. You need a doctor’s referral to access these services. If you think this is something you need, please ask your doctor or nurse at your clinic visit to make the referral. If you need more information, please call 403-698-8169.

21 What you will find in the Family Medicine building (2202 2nd Street SW) Psychosocial Oncology (see map page 21) The staff are trained professionals in psychology, psychiatry and social work and are focused on helping patients and their families cope with the emotional, psychological and social stresses that can come from the experience of cancer and its treatment. They offer counselling, financial help, classes and support groups. Please call 403-355-3207 for information.

22 Peter Lougheed Centre

Some patients with blood-related types of cancer are treated at the Peter Lougheed Centre. If your doctor works at this centre, then you may have your first visit in the Outpatient Specialty Clinic and your treatments in the nearby Treatment room.

Address 3500-26 Avenue NE Calgary, AB T1Y 6J4 Switchboard/Hospital Operator 403-943-4555 Hematology Clinic and Treatment 403-943-4592 After Hours Emergency Department 403-943-4999

All support services and education classes are available to you at the Tom Baker Cancer, even if you are receiving treatment at the Peter Lougheed.

23 Parking The visitor parking area is on the west side of the main building. Parking passes are available at the Parkade Kiosk.

Parking Office (Room 0332B) Business Hours: 8:00 am–4:00 pm Monday–Friday (Closed on holidays) Phone 403-943-4067 or 403-943-4744

Parking Kiosk (East entrance, Lot 11 Parkade - P3 on map) Business Hours: 7:00 am–11:00 pm Monday–Friday (Closed on holidays)

28 38 48 29 39 49

LRT Line LRT

36 Street N.E. via Main Elevator

East Wing

ENTRANCE EMERGENCY Map ? Welcome to the Welcome P PLC Floor PLC Parking Emergency Services Protection E Health Records Emergency Services Space Laboratory Sacred (Outpatient) Minor Surgery Units 28, 29, 38, 39, 48, 49 48, 39, 38, 29, Units 28, Of ce Business Admitting East Wing Accessible via Main Elevator Wing East X-ray ? Ten Take Take Main SOUTH Elevator ENTRANCE Imaging Diagnostic Peter Lougheed Centre Staff Elevator Pre- Clinic Admission On 26 Avenue N.E. On 26 Level 1 Main Care Spiritual Services Pharmacy Outpatient Rehabilitation Trust Health Cast Calgary HPTP Clinic Gift Box Shop Flower ? Work Social GI Clinic Clinic 3 Clinic Clinics / Diabetes Admitting Cholesterol Outpatient Outpatient Hypertension Clinic 1 Clinic 2 Cup Second Liaison Psychiatric Consultation To Sunridge Mall To WEST Way Lot One Visitor Parking Parking ENTRANCE NORTH P P Day $13 Kiosk Visitor Parking Parking Parking Entrance Maximum ATM Protection Services Food Services $ P Of ce Knowledge Knowledge Centre / L:ibrary Transit Sacred Space Parking Parking Auditorium Parking Diagnostic Imaging Telephone ay r Café P X- General Legend Courtyard

Washrooms Pharmacy Elevator Café Market Level 0 Basement Volunteer Resources 0647 0652 Library 0651 Centre / Information Retail Emergency Knowledge Rooms Conference ? E Peter Lougheed Centre Peter NE3500 Avenue – 26 6J4 ABCalgary, T1Y 403-943-4555

25 Public Transportation Call 403-262-1000 for information. The Sunridge C-Train station is a short walk from the hospital. If you park at Sunridge Mall, you may get a parking ticket.

What you will find(see map page 25) Outpatient Hematology and Treatment Clinic 403-943-4592 • This is the main clinic area at the Peter Lougheed Centre where you meet with your cancer specialists and nurses. If you need treatments, you will receive them down the hallway from the clinic in the Treatment Room. (See map page 27, Clinic 1 - Hematology)

Laboratory 403-943-4637 • Lab hours: Monday–Friday 7:00 am–5:00 pm • Located on the Main Floor.

Diagnostic Imaging 403-943-4570 • Located on the main floor at the Peter Lougheed Centre • This area is where you may have tests such as CT scan, MRI, X-Ray or ultrasound.

Outpatient Pharmacy 403-943-4985 • Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 am–5:00 pm • Located down the main hallway from the Specialty Clinics area.

26 Social Work 403-943-2514 • Social workers are available to help you cope with cancer and emotional, social or financial concerns.

Spiritual Care Services 403-943-4585 • Spiritual care coordinators are available to offer you support whether or not you have a formal faith tradition. • The Sacred Space is a space for multi-faith services and quiet reflection. It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is on the Main Floor of the Peter Lougheed Centre.

Inpatient Unit 38 403-943-6638 • Unit 38 is located on the 3rd floor of the East Tower.

• You may be admitted here if you need inpatient care.

Clinic 2 - Vascular, Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Clinic 1 - Hematology Endocrinology, Pediatric Transition, Fine Needle Aspirate, AMS, CCDM, Anticoagulation Clinic, Day Medicine Clinic 3 - General Surgery, Clinic 1 - Respiratory Hand Clinic, Neurology

Endoscopy / ERCP & Post Procedure Cast Clinic Recovery Day Medicine Home Parenteral Therapy Program Pulmonary Function Testing PFT

Rexall Pharmacy Trach / AADL Clinic HPTP EMG / EEG 3

Trach/ AADL GI/ ERCP 2

Cast SOUTH ENTRANCE Clinic Rexall Respiratory Admitting/ Pharmacy Hematology Protective Business Office EMERGENCY Services ENTRANCE Outpatient Clinics: Clinics 1, 2, 3 Cast Clinic 166 Cafeteria Sacred Women’s Space Health Pre- Admission Clinic Rexall Calgary The Health Gift WEST ENTRANCE Take Pharmacy Trust Box Ten

EMERGENCY Triage / WEST ENTRANCE Admitting Calgary’s Own Rehabilitation Flower Co. Second Cup Psychiatric Consultation Liason Service

Diabetes/ Hypertension / Cholesterol Clinic Diagnostic Imaging MRI / CT Scan Ultrasound / Meeting Nuclear Medicine Room 1148 Outpatient Laboratory

PLC - Outpatient Clinics Map - Clinic 1 - Hematology 27 Your First Visit

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Alberta health care card and photo I.D. A list of the medicines you are currently taking including vitamins and natural health products. Your pain medicines (if you are taking any). A list of questions you may have (for ideas go to page 31). Something to read or a portable device to watch or listen to. Please bring earphones. Bring something to eat or drink or money to buy something if you prefer. A support person such as a family member or friend. It may be helpful to have them take notes during your appointment. If you have a smartphone or tablet you may want to use it to record what is said during your appointment. Make sure you ask for your healthcare providers’ permission first.

28 Arriving for your appointment Please check in at the registration desk at the main entrance when you arrive at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. You will receive a white identification card in a plastic sleeve. Please bring this card to all of your future appointments. You will then be told where to go for your visit.

How long will my first appointment take? You should plan to spend 2 to 4 hours for your first visit.

Meeting Your Healthcare Team Our doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers work together as a team to care for you. You may have more than just one doctor or nurse caring for your needs. The members of your team may change during the course of your care if your needs change. Your healthcare team may include some of the people below:

Cancer doctors There are different types of cancer doctors. You may see a: • Medical Oncologist (chemotherapy doctor) • Radiation Oncologist (radiation doctor) • Surgica l Oncologist (surgeon) • Hematologist Oncologist (blood cancer doctor) They will tell you your treatment options and the risks and benefits. The doctor makes the treatment plan with you.

29 Nurse Practitioners Are advanced practice registered nurses who have specialized education and experience and may manage your care.

Nurses Coordinate your care, teach you about cancer, tests, treatments and will work with you to manage your concerns. They will direct and connect you to other members of your healthcare team as needed.

Radiation Therapists Plan your radiation treatments with the radiation doctor. They will also teach about what to expect, administer the radiation treatments and help you manage your concerns.

Pharmacists Fill your cancer medicine prescriptions, answer questions about your current medications and provide information about your cancer medicines and their effects.

Psychosocial Professionals Members of this team are psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers. They help patients and their families cope with the emotional, psychological and social concerns that may happen as a result of cancer and its treatment. They are available for individual, couple and family counselling.

Clerks Greet and direct you to where you need to go. They will

30 also book your appointments, notify you of any changes and check you in when you arrive.

The Tom Baker Cancer Centre is a teaching facility. Students, interns and residents may be involved in your care. Please ask the healthcare team questions if you are unclear about who people are and what their responsibilities are.

Questions about your cancer care Your cancer doctor will answer most of your questions while you are talking about your cancer care. Listen carefully and be clear with your doctor about your concerns. If you wish, you can use these questions to guide you when you are talking with your doctor. Make sure you get all the answers you need during your appointment. 1. What kind of cancer do I have, and where did it start? What is the name of my cancer? 2. Has the cancer spread to other parts of my body? If it has, where? 3. How advanced is my cancer? 4. What treatment option or options do you recommend for me? 5. What are the goals of the treatment you recommend? 6. If I choose not to have treatment what will happen?

31 Things to Know About Treatment Covering the Costs of Your Cancer Care Alberta Health Care pays for the costs of chemotherapy and radiation therapy in most cases. However, it does not cover pain and anti-nausea medications. These medications can be very expensive, so it’s important to have extra coverage.

How can I cover these other medications? You can use a private or provincial health insurance to cover the costs not covered by Alberta Health Care.

If you have private or public insurance call and ask your insurance company: • Do I have a yearly maximum for prescriptions? If yes, what is it? • What is my co-pay portion? • Is my plan a direct bill plan or a reimbursement plan? • What level of coverage do I have? For example, is it full or partial coverage?

What if I have no drug coverage? • You can still apply even with a pre-existing illness. • If you have no drug coverage, we encourage you to apply for Alberta Blue Cross Non-Group as soon as possible. It will take about 3 months before Alberta Blue Cross starts covering your medicines. For example, if you apply in March you will not get drug coverage until July 1.

32 • You can find information and application forms for Alberta Blue Cross Non-Group at: http://www.health. alberta.ca/services/drugs-non-group.html

What if I need more help? If you want help with filling out the paperwork, have more questions about what your plan covers, or need more information, please call the Drug Access Coordinator at 403- 521-3656 or one of our Social Workers at 403-355-3207.

Treatments You may need one of the below treatments, or a combination of them. The main treatments we offer include: • Surgery: Certain types of day surgeries to treat cancer are performed at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, but most surgeries take place in hospital operating rooms. • Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses radiation to treat your cancer. You will get information about what to expect with the treatment and side effects, and have the opportunity to take classes that may help you manage during your treatment. • Chemotherapy: These are drugs designed to destroy or target your cancer cells. You may get these drugs by intravenous (IV), injections or by pill depending on the type of drugs you need and the best way to get them into your system. We offer classes and information about chemotherapy and how to manage the side effects you may have.

33 Transportation during your treatment We recommend you arrange a ride for your first treatment. For future treatment appointments, if you need help travelling to and from your cancer treatment appointments, the Canadian Cancer Society offers a volunteer driver program. Call 1-800-263-6750 for more information.

What to bring to your treatment and follow-up appointments

Your CancerControl Identification card

A list of questions you want to ask staff

A list of medicines you need renewed by your oncologist

Alberta health care card and photo I.D.

A list of the medicines you are currently taking including vitamins and natural health products.

Your pain medicines (if you are taking any).

Something to read or a portable device to watch or listen to. Please bring earphones.

Bring something to eat or drink or money to buy something if you prefer.

A support person such as a family member or friend. It may be helpful to have them take notes during your appointment.

34 If you have a smartphone or tablet you may want to use it to record what is said during your appointment. Make sure you ask for your healthcare providers’ permission.

Ask staff to arrange for an interpreter, if you have trouble understanding English.

Clinical and Support Services Available (alphabetical order)

Dietitians (Nutrition) 403-521-3719 Registered Dietitians can help you eat well during your treatments. You can see a dietitian by attending one of the classes they offer, or call for advice or book an appointment. Nutrition is important in cancer care. Available Monday–Friday 8:00 am to 4:15 pm.

Drug Access Coordinator 403-521-3656 The Drug Access Coordinator can help you understand how your medication coverage works and what options may be available to you during your cancer treatments. Please call if you would like information about programs that can help with the cost.

Clinical Ethics Service 403-943-2821 or 1-855-943-2821 This service provides support and guidance for patients, families and healthcare providers with difficult decisions such as choosing between two treatment options, or refusing to be treated.

35 Library / Knowledge Centre 403-521-3765 Library and information services are available for patients, families and friends. The Library in the Tom Baker Cancer Centre specializes in books and journals on cancer care, treatments, research and supportive care. Library staff is happy to help you search and find cancer information. You may borrow books, DVD’s, videos and CD’s Monday to Friday, 9:00 am–4:00 pm. The Centre is on the main floor near the escalators.

Healing Arts / Arts in Medicine 403-521-3369 Creative expression can help patients and family members face feelings that come with a diagnosis of cancer. Supports available through the Healing Arts program include both individual and group art therapy, as well as arts-based groups designed to provide a safe space to express and play. Please pick up an “Arts in Medicine” pamphlet from the racks for more information on upcoming opportunities. Classes are also listed in the “Classes for Patients and Families” booklet.

Interpreter Services You can ask for an interpreter during your clinic visits. Professional interpreters are available in more than 200 languages. If possible, please let us know before your appointment if you would like to have an interpreter. This is a free service.

36 Pharmacy Services 403-521-3764 Tom Baker pharmacy: ground floor (left off of the elevators). Holy Cross pharmacy: ground floor Cancer centre pharmacies provide your cancer treatment drugs that you may receive in clinic or take at home. These medicines are covered by your provincial health care insurance. You will need to fill your prescriptions for other medicines at your regular pharmacy. Our pharmacists review your current medications and provide information about your cancer medicines and their effects. Make sure you have a list of all current prescription and non- prescription medications including vitamins and herbal products.

Psychosocial Oncology 403-355-3207 Staff focus on helping patients and their families cope with the emotional, psychological and social stresses that can come from cancer and its treatment. Staff offer services such as counselling, assessment, support of finances, educational classes and support groups. Call for more information or pick up the brochure "Counselling and Support" from the pamphlet racks.

Rehabilitation Oncology 403-698-8169 This program provides cancer patients with physiotherapy and occupational therapy outpatient services for issues related to their cancer or cancer treatments. The program also helps with managing lymphedema (swelling of a body

37 part) that can sometimes happen after the removal of lymph nodes or radiation treatment. You need a doctor’s referral to access these services. If you think this is something you need, please ask your doctor or nurse at your clinic visit to make the referral. If you need more information, please call 403-698-8169.

Speech and Swallowing Cancer and cancer treatments can cause a wide variety of disorders that affect people’s ability to communicate or swallow effectively. If you are having difficulties with speaking or swallowing, a Speech Language Pathologist may help you. You need a doctor’s referral for this service. Please ask for one at your clinic visit if you feel it would help you.

Spiritual Care 403-521-3352 Helps patients and families explore their beliefs, values and emotions, keeping the feelings of hope and purpose strong in their lives. It offers support to all, whether religious or non-religious and individual counselling is available by appointment. There is a multi-faith chapel available on the main floor of the Foothills Medical Centre.

Volunteer Driver Program The Canadian Cancer Society operates a shuttle service for patients who are receiving treatment and are living in the Calgary area. Please pick up an information sheet from the pamphlet racks or call 1-800-263-6750 for more information. 38 Volunteer Services 403-944-1336 Volunteers generously give their time and energy to help patients find their way, serve refreshments, prepare patient information packages, operate the Gift Shops, as well as many other things. If you are interested in being a volunteer, please visit the website www.albertahealthservices.ca/volunteers.asp

Cancer Education

New Patient Information Sessions Every Thursday (except on holidays; any exceptions would be listed in the "Classes for Patients and Families" booklet) 2:00 pm–3:00 pm, Tom Baker Auditorium (main floor) This session will help prepare you for your medical care and give you information about the centre. Family and friends are welcome!

Please note: • If you are unwell, physically unable, or staying in hospital, please do not come to the class. You will be given any information that you need at your clinic visit instead. • If you live out of town, you may attend if you like. If not, you will be given information at your clinic visit instead.

To Register There is no registration necessary. Please come to any session.

39 Other Classes We also offer other classes on chemotherapy, radiation, nutrition, and lifestyle matters. For all of the details, pick up the brochure “Classes for Patients and Families.”

Useful Websites Your healthcare team is happy to answer your questions. But if you’d like to do some of your own research, the internet can have a lot of good, and up-to-date information. Remember that not all sites are reliable. Here are some websites to get you started:

Alberta Health Services albertahealthservices.ca/cancer.asp

American Cancer Society cancer.org

Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) cancer.ca 1-888-939-3333.

Canadian Cancer Trials canadiancancertrials.ca

CancerNet cancer.net

Cancer View Canada cancerview.ca

My Health Alberta myhealth.alberta.ca

National Cancer Institute (U.S.) cancer.gov

OncoLink® oncolink.org

40 Your Rights and Responsibilities

Your Health Information We collect only what we need to do our job. When possible, we work with information that doesn’t include your name or other information that could identify you. Your health information may be used to: • Provide you with the best possible health services • Determine what health services you’re eligible for • Evaluate your care • Gather statistics on cancer and help in cancer prevention • Conduct research if approved by an ethics committee

Patient Rights—What You Can Expect From Us As a patient, you have a right to: • Be treated with care, dignity and respect. • Expect that your medical records be kept confidential. Review your health records. • Have your diagnosis, treatment options, prognosis and other information explained in clear and understandable terms (with the help of a medical interpreter for another language, when needed). • Know the benefits and risks of a procedure or treatment offered to you. • Decide whether you wish to be treated or not. If you refuse treatment, you will be told of the likely medical results of your decision.

41 • Refuse to sign a consent form (agreement) if you feel everything has not been clearly explained. You can cross out any part of a consent form that you do not want applied to your care. • Change your mind about any treatment or procedure for which you have given your consent (agreement). • Agree or refuse to take part in medical training and research programs. • Voice comments and concerns regarding the quality of the care and service you receive, and know that this will not have a negative effect on your care. If you have something you would like us to know, please feel free to talk with our staff, ask for the Manager of the area or inform the Patient Feedback Line at Alberta Health Services by calling 1-855-550-2555 or emailing [email protected].

Patient Responsibilities—Help Us to Help You

Appointments It is very important that you come to all your appointments, and diagnostic tests. If you cannot come to an appointment, please call us as soon as possible to reschedule. Keep in mind that if you need to reschedule an appointment, it may cause a delay in your care.

Make Sure Your Phone Number is Not Blocked • When we call you from the Cancer Centres, our identity is blocked from your telephone to help ensure your privacy at your home or work setting.

42 • If your telephone service blocks phone numbers that are not identified, then we may not be able to reach you with important calls regarding your care. Please check your service and make sure that your telephone does not require an identity from the caller in order to reach you.

If You are Sick Call the Cancer Centre if you have an appointment and have any of these symptoms: ○ Fever ○ Sore Throat ○ New Rash ○ Diarrhea ○ Cold Symptoms ○ New Cough Cancer treatments can weaken your immune system, which makes it easier for you to get sick while you are on treatment. If we know that you are sick before your appointment, we can better protect your health and the health of others.

Please Don’t Wear Scents Many patients and staff members are allergic to perfumes, colognes or lotions. Please don’t put on any scented products such as body sprays, scented deodorant, or hairspray, on days you are coming to the Cancer Centre. If you forget, do your best to wash it off.

Be Active in Your Care • We encourage you to participate in your care. Speak up if you have any questions or concerns. You are the most important member of your care team.

43 • Attend our classes. There are many presentations for patients each week that are free of charge. Knowing what to expect and how to manage your treatments and symptoms is important. • Use the many supportive services the Cancer Centre offers for you.

Respect the Privacy of Others • If another patient is talking with a staff member, give them privacy. • Keep a respectful distance from reception desks when staff are serving other patients. • Don’t share the identity of other patients with people outside the cancer centre, unless they give their consent.

44 Notes Cancer Patient Education