January 31, 2008– Memphis , TN – A new Institute of Medicine ( IOM ) report , Cancer Care from the Whole Patient: Meeting Psychosocial Health Needs, was published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI) January 29, 2008 . In the report, the IOM proposes a new standard of care calling all cancer care providers to ensure that patients receive needed psychosocial services. The IOM ‘s proposed standard calls for clinicians to provide screening for psychosocial needs; link patient with support services; coordinate, monitor, and follow-up on care received.

As an international leader in cancer care, The West Clinic has been on the forefront addressing psychosocial needs for over 20 years. With the development of the

Patient Care Monitor™ (PCM) and the e/Tablet, patients report symptoms electronically they might otherwise forget to share with their physician. This tool is now being used in cancer clinics across the country and has proven invaluable in the management of patient psychosocial needs.

Annually, thousands of cancer patients at The West Clinic and hundreds of thousands of cancer patients around the nation receive better care due to this innovative technology. Dozens of key symptoms – physical, psychological, social, and quality of life are made transparent during the extended process that occurs when patients undergo treatment. The goal of treating the whole patient and not just the disease is reality in 21 st century cancer care. The West Clinic is excited to have pioneered this essential transformation in the care of cancer patients across the nation.

In addition, The West Clinic’s Clinical Psychosocial team provides patients with the psychological support needed to deal with the emotional strain of cancer diagnosis and treatment, working with patients and their families to promote a healthy body and spirit. Some of the support services provided include:

• Pain Management & Palliative Care
• Health Psychology Services
• Wings Cancer Foundation
• Home Health/Hospice
• Nutritional Services



For additional information or to speak with one of The West Clinic physicians regarding the report, please contact our office at 683-0055 x 1312.