Patient Resources

We are committed to treating you as a whole person, mind and body, not just your cancer. We believe quality comprehensive cancer care involves attending to issues beyond the scope of traditional models of medicine. We understand cancer not only affects you; it also touches the lives of those surrounding you. The care we provide extends to your family and your support network. Most of our cancer support services are provided at no additional charge to you and your loved ones. You can also view our Reference Guide to Your Care at Duke Cancer Center (PDF, 1.9 MB) for more information.

Our Patient Resource Center (located on Level 0) is designed to support cancer patients, their families, and caregivers by offering reliable information, practical assistance, and psychosocial resources throughout the cancer journey. Our volunteers are able to give an overview of the many resources and education available and help direct your questions. This community space provides a peaceful environment for relaxation in between appointments and a comfortable, welcoming setting.

Volunteers can help you:

• Locate available clinical trials through the Duke Cancer Institute.
• Get information to help you manage your side effects
• Share information about financial assistance resources.
• Access support care services such as nutrition, counseling, support groups, and survivorship programs. 

The Patient Resource Center is open from 8:30 am-4:00 pm Monday-Friday (based on volunteer availability). For more information, call the Patient Resource Center at 919-684-6955.

The Duke Cancer Patient Support Program offers services that support patients and their loved ones.

• We help you understand your treatment options, make decisions, manage the effects of cancer and its treatment, and find meaning in the journey.
• We offer monthly professionally facilitated disease-specific and general support groups that give you and your family members the opportunity to share your experiences, gather information and resources, and participate in educational programs. Most groups are virtual, but there are in-person meetups.
• Find moments of calm, comfort and restoration through our Rest, Relax & Renew offerings. These supportive programs help patients, survivors, and caregivers reduce stress, improve well-being, and strengthen resilience through mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and other healingmind-body practices.

For more information about these groups, please visit Cancer Support Groups

Phone: 919-684-4497
Email cancersupport@duke.edu.

The Duke Supportive Care and Survivorship Center offers several programs to help you understand the long-term and late effects of cancer and how to live a fuller life after treatment.

The Road to Recovery Program is a free service that matches patients living in Durham County who need transportation with local volunteers who are willing to drive them to cancer appointments at the Duke Cancer Center or Duke Regional Hospital.

Oncology patients who need transportation to their appointment or would like more information about the program can call 800-227-2345.

Recreation therapy is an innovative type of psychosocial therapy that utilizes recreation services for purposeful intervention in order to develop, regain, or maintain your capacity for full living, specifically your physical strength, emotional growth, and social self-confidence. Our state licensed and nationally certified recreation therapists help you and your family use your creativity and personal drive to help you fight cancer.

The Pets at Duke program, offered through the Duke Cancer Patient Support Program, offers many benefits to our patients. Research shows that animal-assisted therapy, or pet therapy, is an effective form of psychotherapy intervention that reduces stress and depression. It also provides a sense of companionship that can combat feelings of isolation. The relaxation and connection people feel with an animal—in this case, a dog—facilitate healing and rehabilitation. Check the calendar to plan your visit.

You have access to additional services provided by Duke University Hospital including:

• Child Life
• International Patient Services
• Medical Interpreters
• Patient Advocates
• Pastoral Care

You can learn about these and other services by visiting the Duke University Hospital and Duke Children's Plan Your Visit sections.