Becoming a cancer survivor starts the moment a patient is diagnosed, and at MD Anderson Cooper we realize that physical healing is only part of our mission. That’s why we created the Dr. Diane Barton Complementary Medicine Program (DDBCMP)
The program enhances the quality of life and wellness for individuals living with, through, and beyond a cancer diagnosis. It uses therapies that focus on mind, body, and spirit while supporting mainstream medical care.
The DDBCMP’s complementary therapies are designed to lessen the pain, stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis. They also provide assistance in managing the side effects of traditional treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy.
Complementary therapies cannot cure cancer but many patients have found them to be helpful in managing and coping with their cancer. While traditional medicine and health care treat the illness, complementary medicine therapies help promote wellness in the whole person.
In addition to the therapeutic benefits, taking part in complementary medicine therapies empowers participants, providing them with an opportunity to take a positive, active role in their care and treatment.
All therapies and programs offered through the DDBCMP are available at no cost and are open to all cancer patients, regardless of where they receive their treatment.
The following programs and therapies are available throughout the year in our Camden and Voorhees locations:
- Laughter play shop.
- Therapeutic chair massage.
- Reflexology.
- Qi Gong and meditation.
- Horticultural therapy.
- Gentle chair yoga.
- Healing music.
- Creative Arts for Healing classes.
- Gentle body movement.
- Nutrition education.
- Behavioral Medicine workshops.
- iPad classes.
- Educational seminars.
- Tea cart program.
- Survivor Times newsletter.
In our Camden location, our chair-side reflexology is now available to patients and their families in the infusion waiting area four days a week; Creative Arts for Healing is offered in the infusion waiting area one day a week; and chair massages are available in all of the waiting areas four days a week.
Surveys are done annually to measure the program’s effectiveness in reducing stress and anxiety, and in patient satisfaction. The most recent survey conducted on Chairside Reflexology, Introduction to iPad classes, and Creative Arts for Healing classes demonstrated a 100 percent satisfaction rating in all areas.
To register for a class, click here.
If you have any questions, please contact Program Manager Bonnie Mehr at 856-325-6646.