News from Illinois CancerCare

COVID-19 | Illinois CancerCare Update

We are here for you and we are safe for you!

Illinois CancerCare understands that this is a difficult time for our patients. We will continue to make adjustments when we can to bring as much compassion and support to your journey, but our top priority is keeping you safe.

Please call our office if you have any questions about your appointment or if any of Illinois CancerCare guidelines cannot be followed.  Your treatment team and our scheduling staff will work closely with you and your family.

While we want to limit contact at this time, we will not be limiting our caring smiles and compassionate care. Thank you for your cooperation in helping us protect you, other patients and our Illinois CancerCare team!

 


Steps we have taken to protect our patients:

  • We follow all guidelines given by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO).
  • We have implemented additional cleaning measures overnight, along with cleaning around the clock, to ensure that all surfaces are wiped down between each patient throughout the day.
  • If available, our employees are using a separate entrance to enter in the morning. This ensures that they are able to enter one at a time, participate in a health screening and receive the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) they will wear that day.
  • All of our employees are wearing masks in patient areas. Many are also wearing additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Employees receive extra training on how to use these protective measures to their highest potential.

 

Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?

Due to our region moving to Phase 5, Illinois CancerCare will now allow two visitors (age 12+) per patient to join office visits and one visitor (age 12+) per patient in treatment rooms. Loved ones are also always welcome to participate in provider visits by phone and/or video chat.

We recognize the challenges that these safety measures present, but please be assured that our care team is here to support you. As always, our decisions are driven by our single purpose: to provide you with the absolute best and safest care while protecting your health.

 

Will I be able to eat during treatment?

We require everyone inside to wear a mask at all times so eating in the waiting rooms and treatment room is discouraged. We will make exceptions for diabetics who need to eat or for patients who are here for long treatments.

 

Will I see the beloved volunteer therapy dogs?

Our canine volunteers are back! You can find them roaming the halls (with their humans!) on the search for snuggles and smiles.

 

How were these decisions made?

All decisions were made by the Illinois CancerCare physicians and our COVID-19 Readiness Committee in compliance with all guidelines given by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO).

 

What if someone gets COVID-19?

Persons with COVID-19 who have symptoms and were directed to care for themselves at home may discontinue isolation under the following conditions and return to Illinois CancerCare clinics:

  • Mild to moderate:
    • At least 10 days have passed since symptom onset
    • At least 24 hours have passed since resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications
    • Other symptoms have improved
    • A negative COVID test is not necessary
  • Severe to critical illness or who are severely immunocompromised
    • At least 10 days and up to 20 days have passed since symptoms first appeared
    • At least 24 hours have passed since last fever without the use of fever-reducing medications
    • Symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath) have improved

 

As a place that takes care of our patients with the most modern treatments available, Illinois CancerCare has always adapted with the needs of the times. Our mission remains the same. We are focused on making sure that our clinical care sites remain the best places for world class, compassionate care.

Have other questions?

•    If you have any additional thoughts or questions, please email us at WeCare@IllinoisCancerCare.com.