Head and Neck Cancer Support Services

If you’re diagnosed with head and neck cancer, you need care that goes beyond just cancer treatment. Our expert surgeons, oncologists and radiologists are not the only ones on your care team. We provide all of the supportive care you need to you live your best life during—and after—cancer treatment.

At Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, you are not alone on this journey. Our compassionate team of experts cares not only about what is the matter with you, but also what matters to you.

Head and Neck Cancer Support: The Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Advantage

At the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, we provide complete care for people with all types of head and neck cancers. That means supporting all your physical and emotional needs before, during and after treatment.

The benefits of our head and neck cancer support services include:

• All of your care under one roof: An appointment at our cancer institute means the opportunity to see your medical care team as well as a dietitian, speech therapist and any other wellness services you might need. Our complete, convenient care helps make life during treatment a little easier to navigate.
• Focus on quality of life during treatment: Head and neck cancer treatment can make eating painful and difficult. We work with you to improve your nutrition to keep you strong and well enough to continue treatment.
• Help for you—and your support crew: We understand that it’s not only the patient who needs support. Your family, friends and caregivers are always welcome here.

How We Support Patients With Head and Neck Cancer

Taking care of you as a person—and not just a patient—requires a team approach. At the Ann B Barshinger Cancer Institute, we have specialists ready to address every one of your needs.

Our supportive care includes:

• Nurse navigators: Coordinating cancer care can be overwhelming. Our dedicated head and neck cancer nurse navigators are here to help. They keep everyone on your care team up-to-date on your treatment, educate you and your family and make sure you have the support you need.
• Dietitians: Nutrition is especially important for people going through head and neck cancer treatment. Surgery and radiation can impact your ability to eat and affect your sense of taste. Our dietitians meet with every patient, at least once a week, throughout their treatment. They can give you tips on eating to help maximize your nutrition. If necessary, they’ll recommend a feeding tube and help you manage it.
• Speech and swallowing therapy: A speech therapist is an essential part of your care team. They’ll work with you throughout your treatment to help address difficulty swallowing as well as issues with speech. Our goal is to help you return to full function as quickly as possible after treatment.
• Lymphedema management: Head and neck cancer can result in lymphedema—a swelling in the head and neck. Our certified physical therapists work with you to manage this condition.
• Emotional support: Your mental health is as important to us as your physical well-being. We have social workers, counselors and support groups to help you during and after treatment.

Learn more about all of the cancer treatment support we offer at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health.

Request an Appointment

To make an appointment at the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, call 717-544-9400 or request an appointment using our online form.