Frequently Asked Questions and Glossary
Yes. However, our Nurse Ambassadors can be found throughout the UPMC system. We train Nurse Ambassadors throughout the system.
You can be referred by your physician or you can self-refer.
No. Patients will keep their primary oncologist or referring oncology subspecialist and the approach will be collaborative in nature. Dr. Francis corresponds with your medical oncology team to make sure they are aware of your integrative care plan.
Third floor of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside.
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center offers valet parking at a $5 daily rate.
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time.
- Insurance information
- Medications and supplements
- Tracking of symptoms and activities (optional)
We understand the cancer journey brings unexpected twists and turns as you are balancing multiple appointments, priorities, and how you feel on any given day. However, we ask that you cancel any scheduled appointment at least 24 hours in advance so everyone’s time and energy are respected.
Your initial visit with Dr. Lanie Francis is billed to your insurance company as a specialist visit.
Our team works diligently throughout the year to fundraise for our patients to receive introductory demonstrations. These demonstrations are specifically recommended for you by Dr. Francis to sample and understand if integrative therapies work with your time, geography, and budget.
Beyond the introductory demonstrations all services within the Wellness Suite are available for a fee comparable to market place value. We have seen minimal insurance coverage for services such as acupuncture, oncology massage, and yoga/meditation.
No. Our program is focused on a holistic approach to symptom management and quality of life in the context of conventional cancer care. Integrative therapies offered by the Wellness and Integrative Oncology Program are not meant to replace conventional cancer care prescribed by your primary oncologist. We offer a non-judgmental space to discuss alternative therapies.
Examples of alternative therapies we do not provide:
- IV minerals and vitamins
- Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
The Wellness and Integrative Oncology Program is glad to sponsor a support group for the caregiver called 'Caring for the Caregivers' and caregivers are encouraged to participate in group classes with their loved ones. At this time, individual services for caregivers are not offered.
Engage with our Nurse Ambassador Program
- Acupuncture
- Aromatherapy
- Exercise therapy
- Lifestyle nutrition
- Meditation
- Oncology massage
- Yoga
Meet with our clinical team to reassess symptoms. This is billed to your insurance as a specialist visit. Discuss next steps for expanding and sustaining integrative care throughout your cancer journey
After you complete your introductory demonstrations you may continue to engage with our integrative providers in The Wellness Suite at rates similar to or below marketplace value.
A portion of the fee goes toward funding introductory demonstrations for other cancer patients.
We appreciate your thoughtfulness, but we do not accept any gratuity.
Glossary
Alternative – using a non-mainstream approach in place of conventional medicine.
Baseline symptom assessment – A form used during your initial consultation to help describe your symptoms and experience to your physician and the Wellness and Integrative Oncology team. The information is used in conjunction with your initial consult to create a customized care plan.
Complementary – using a non-mainstream approach together with conventional medicine.
Customized care plan – An individual proposal developed by you and your Wellness and Integrative Oncology team for your unique physical and emotional needs.
Demonstration – An introductory integrative therapy session.
Essential oil – Natural aromatic compounds found in the seeds, stems, roots, leaves, flowers, or bark of plants.
Fee for service – Payment made in exchange for integrative services.
Holistic – Considering the complete person, physically, psychologically, and environmentally, in the treatment of a disease.
Integrative – weaving non-mainstream techniques into conventional medicine to create a cohesive approach toward treating patients.
Integrative Oncology – managing the mind, body and spirit of cancer patients in the context of conventional cancer care using the modalities of movement, touch, nutrition and mindfulness to address symptoms and quality of life.
Integrative provider – An individual that offers their expertise and services to the Wellness Suite including acupuncture, yoga, meditation, oncology massage, and nutrition.
Nurse Ambassador – Nurses trained to offer aromatherapy, breathing techniques, meditation, hand and foot massage, and seated yoga to patients in treatment rooms, clinic, and inpatient areas to manage symptoms and focus on well-being.
The Wellness Suite and Studios – A soothing home for physician consults, hands on services, and technology-based education platforms located on the third floor of UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside.