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Patient Resources

Patient Resources & Social Services

Southern Cancer Center’s experienced, licensed social services department is committed to ensuring that our patients have access to the psychological, social, practical and spiritual support and resources they need. Cancer affects more than your physical health, so we are here to provide resources to address any peripheral problems related to your diagnosis. Our services are provided in person, over the phone or in a group setting, and do not require a referral from a physician or medical team.

“Bell Ringers” Support Groups

We offer multiple support groups to assist our patients and their families in coping with their cancer journey. Our “Bell Ringers” groups are free to attend and open to all individuals touched by cancer, including those who did not received their treatment at Southern Cancer Center. Group meetings are held monthly in both Mobile and Baldwin Counties and sessions typically last one hour.

Although many people receive support from friends and family, the number one reason patients join a support group is to be with others who have similar cancer experiences. Some research shows that joining a support group improves both quality of life and survival. Our members often share the same struggles and come together to support each other and suggest new ways of dealing with a particular problem. We understand that joining a support group for the first time can be uncomfortable. Everything that takes place in this setting is confidential and will not be shared outside of these groups.

Information Resources

Patient Financial Assistance

Financial concerns should never be a barrier to receiving cancer care. Southern Cancer Center provides dedicated financial counselors at every location to support patients with any socioeconomic or financial needs that may arise throughout treatment. Our team works closely with national and local foundations to help secure financial resources for eligible patients. We can assist with applications, explore available grants, and help create personalized payment plans for any financial obligation you may have.

Our financial counselors are available to help with:

Our financial counselors are also able to assist with completing important forms, such as disability paperwork, cancer policy claims, Family Medical Leave (FMLA), power of attorney, handicapped parking permits, and other required documentation. Patients and their families are encouraged to schedule an appointment with a financial counselor so we can tailor a plan to meet your individual needs.

Camps for Cancer Patients

Organizations / Support Groups

Advance Care Planning

Advance care planning lets patients take charge of their healthcare by sharing their preferences and goals ahead of time. This means your independence and wishes are respected, even if you can’t make decisions later. Be sure to talk with your healthcare team and loved ones to ask questions and share what is important to you. By making informed decisions and writing down your preferences, you can make sure your medical wishes are known and followed.

Advance Directive Documents
Advance Care Planning Includes

Choosing a Healthcare Proxy

Pick someone you trust to be your healthcare proxy or medical power of attorney. This person will make medical decisions for you if you can’t, so talk to them about your wishes for your care.

Sharing Your Personal Values

Think about what matters most to you, including your beliefs, culture, and any religious or spiritual preferences. What is important to you? Tell your healthcare team and loved ones about these values, as they can help guide your treatment and end-of-life care. Make sure your values are written down in your advance care planning documents.

Determining Your Treatment Preferences

Discuss options like pain relief, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and clinical trials with your healthcare team. Consider the benefits, risks, side effects, and how each treatment might affect your quality of life.

Evaluating End-of-Life Care Options and Preferences

Talk about end-of-life care options and preferences with your healthcare team. Decide when you wish to proceed with medical services such as resuscitation (CPR), intubation (help breathing with a tube), and artificial feeding and hydration.

Documenting Your Decisions

Your decisions need to be written down in an advance directive or living will. These documents explain your wishes for medical treatment if you can’t speak for yourself. Share copies with your healthcare team, healthcare proxy, and loved ones.

Reviewing and Updating Regularly

Look at your advance care planning documents often, especially if your health changes, new treatment options are recommended, or other life circumstances have changed. Update them as needed to show your current wishes.

Atlas Oncology Partners

Additional Support for Eligible Southern Cancer Center Patients

A cancer diagnosis can affect many parts of life beyond medical treatment. Through our partnership with Atlas Oncology Partners, eligible Southern Cancer Center patients with Humana Medicare Advantage insurance have access to additional support services designed to help navigate the challenges that can arise during care.

The Atlas team works alongside your Southern Cancer Center providers to help coordinate care, manage symptoms, address emotional and practical concerns, and provide an extra level of support throughout treatment and beyond.

This program is a covered benefit for patients with Humana Medicare Advantage insurance and is available at no additional cost.

How Atlas Can Help

Care Coordination

Atlas helps keep communication flowing between your healthcare providers, nurses, specialists and support services, helping ensure your care remains connected and organized.

Emotional and Social Support

Patients and families have access to counseling, social work services and behavioral health support to help address emotional, social and practical needs.

Same-Day Access

Both in-person and virtual appointments are available, with same-day or next-day visits often offered when support is needed most.

Whole-Person Support

From diagnosis through survivorship, the Atlas team focuses on more than your cancer care. They help support your overall well-being throughout every stage of your experience.

Meet the Atlas Team
  • Shangeetha Balakumar, MD | Medical Director
  • Mandi Jackson, CRNP | Advanced Practice Provider
  • LaVera McCaskill, LCSW | Behavioral Health Specialist
  • Rebecca Stewart-Shuttlesworth | Care Coordinator
  • Patricia Bahadosingh, RN | Registered Nurse
  • Shonda Scott | Office Supervisor
Locations and Schedule

Daphne Clinic
29653 Anchor Cross Blvd.
Daphne, AL 36526
Monday and Tuesday

Springhill Clinic
3719 Dauphin St., Suite 102
Mobile, AL 36608
Wednesday through Friday

Who Is Eligible?

This program is available to Southern Cancer Center patients enrolled in a Humana Medicare Advantage plan. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, our team can help determine your eligibility and connect you with Atlas Oncology Partners. 

Questions?

For more information, call Atlas Oncology Partners at 251-418-0592 or visit atlasoncpartners.com.