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Oncology Nutrition Program Improves Quality of Life for Cancer Patients Hyannis, Mass., February 12, 2025 - Cape Cod Healthcare’s Oncology Nutrition Program is improving access to nutrition services for cancer patients, coordinating diet regimens with treatment programs and enhancing quality of life. By simplifying processes and increasing accessibility, the program has grown significantly, addressing issues like malnutrition, dehydration, and the side effects of cancer treatments. With an emphasis on inter-department collaboration and proactive nutrition screening, the program underscores the importance of proper nutrition in achieving better outcomes and reducing hospital visits for cancer patients. Since its launch in 2018, the Oncology Nutrition Program has focused on connecting cancer patients to vital nutrition services. Recognizing the unmet need for these services, Cape Cod Healthcare has made key improvements, leading to a 50% growth in patient volume from 2022 to 2023. The program continued to grow from 2023 to 2024, serving 237 new patients in the program. “Cancer patients often face nutritional challenges that can significantly impact their quality of life and tolerance to treatment,” said Katie Michaud, executive director of oncology services at Cape Cod Healthcare. “Our program not only helps patients maintain their strength and resilience but also underscores our broader commitment to improving the overall care experience for the community we serve.” The program’s recent successes include: • Integrating malnutrition screening tools into electronic health records. • Creating more effective pathways for scheduling dietitian appointments for high-risk patients. By employing these strategies, Cape Cod Healthcare has enhanced early identification of nutritional needs, ensuring patients receive both timely and tailored support. In addition, the Oncology Nutrition Program’s collaborations with other departments have yielded benefits. Recognizing nutritional challenges faced by patients with head and neck cancers, the program has created a special care approach for these individuals. After the initial consultation with a radiation oncologist, referrals are promptly made to a dedicated oncology dietitian, who provides weekly follow-up for 12 weeks. The integrated care model ensures patients receive prompt and continuous nutritional support, helping them navigate their treatment to improve their overall health outcomes. “Nutrition services are a vital component of cancer care, yet accessing these services can be a challenge for many patients,” said Abigail Usen Berner, MS, RD, LDN, an oncology dietitian at Cape Cod Healthcare. “By promoting an integrated care plan, we’re able to connect more patients to the support they need, improving outcomes and providing a sense of self-determination for patients.” For more information about Cape Cod Healthcare’s Oncology Nutrition Program, visit Cape Cod Healthcare’s website. About Cape Cod Healthcare: Cape Cod Healthcare is the leading provider of healthcare services for residents and visitors of Cape Cod. With more than 600 providers, over 5,000 employees and over 250 volunteers, Cape Cod Healthcare is comprised of two acute care hospitals, the Cape’s leading provider of homecare and hospice services (VNA), six urgent care centers, a primary and specialty care network, a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility, an assisted living facility, and numerous health services and programs. For more information, visit the Cape Cod Healthcare website at www.capecodhealth.org.