AHN launches mental health support pilot program for patients battling metastatic breast cancer

Allegheny Health Network’s Cancer Institute announced Wednesday the launch of a pilot program addressing the mental health needs of patients battling metastatic breast cancer.In a statement from AHN, the pilot program will integrate a behavioral health psychologist specializing in oncology for patients two days a week, Mondays through Fridays, at the Glimmer of Hope Metastatic Breast Cancer Clinic at Allegheny General Hospital.“Care fragmentation, especially the separation of medical care and mental health services, is a known barrier for metastatic cancer patients,” Director of the Academic Breast Oncology at AHN Christie Hilton said in the statement. “This program will provide vital mental health support to a fragile population in need of comprehensive, accessible care for both their body and minds.” In a study conducted in 2023 of 230,000 cancer patients, the statement said, “10% of patients in the study cohort had depression or anxiety before their cancer diagnosis, and 22% were diagnosed afterward — meaning one-third of cancer patients also has a concurrent diagnosis of anxiety or depression.”The study also showed newly diagnosed depression and anxiety cases are most common among those with metastatic disease, the statement said. Suicide risk also has been seen to increase in the first six months after a cancer diagnosis. AHN said all services during the pilot phase will be free of charge for patients. “This initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals battling metastatic breast cancer,” Dr. Hilton said in the statement. “A Glimmer of Hope and AHN Cancer Institute are committed to improving the quality of life for these patients and their families.”The pilot program, according to the statement, was made possible by a $50,000 grant from A Glimmer of Hope Foundation from funds raised through an annual event, Pitch for Hope, held in partnership with Pirates Charities. AHN said the grant will cover all costs for the duration of the pilot program, which will run for six months.

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