Patient Support and Education

At Middlesex Hospital, we often talk about “healthcare the way you prescribe it.”

At our Cancer Center, this means offering advanced, high-tech options for treating cancer without losing sight of the emotional, physical and psychological needs of the person. That’s why in addition to all the treatment facilities, experts, and equipment available to cancer patients and their physicians, the Cancer Center is also home to ancillary programs that enhance treatment.

Nutrition Services

This service screens patients for nutritional risk that may occur during treatment. The nutritionist may counsel the person and family to maintain weight during treatment. This may include the use of supplements or changes in diet. The nutritionist will also help with the knowledgeable use of any dietary supplements you may be using. Finally, the nutritionist will make eating suggestions that will make eating easier during therapy. The services of the nutritionist are available throughout your treatment and regardless of the site of your treatment.

For further information, call Laurie Hatch, R.D., at (860) 358-2052

Cancer Data Registry

The Cancer Data Registry is an important component for the evaluation of cancer care. Hospital based registries have been mandated in Connecticut since 1935. Middlesex Hospital has one of the oldest registries in the state. The registry contributes to patient care through data retrieval, annual analysis and long-term follow-up that allows us to measure ourselves against national standards.

Psychosocial Services

Fighting cancer takes its toll, not only on the body, but on the mind as well. There are trained social workers, nurses and clergy available to provide support for patients and their family members when they need it. These services can be accessed individually, as a family, and in support groups.

For further information, call Doreen Donahue, L.C.S.W., at 860-358-2053.

Financial Assistance

As if coping with cancer isn’t difficult enough, worrying about how to pay for treatment shouldn’t be at the top of the list. For those patients with financial concerns, our licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) can help locate agencies and organizations that may provide the help needed. Our LCSWs can guide you through the system to help you find the resources you need. Social work services are provided by a board certified oncology social work at the Cancer Center.

Cancer Support Groups

If you have cancer, or if someone close to you has been diagnosed as having cancer, there is a place to go for the extra emotional support you may need. Middlesex Hospital's Cancer Support Group is there for patients and their families and friends who all share in the difficult experience of having cancer.

Light One Little Candle

This wonderful program allows us to offer free children’s books to cancer survivors to read with family members or friends. Ask the librarian about picking up a free book or go to the Light One Little Candle website to find out more.