Novant Health Cancer Care Enhances Rehabilitation Services Through STAR Program® Certification

Charlotte, NC, Jan. 30, 2015 – Several Novant Health Cancer Care facilities have recently been accredited in the Survivorship Training and Rehab (STAR) program through Oncology Rehab Partners. Clinicians at Novant Health Cancer Care facilities in the Charlotte and Winston-Salem areas are now specifically trained to deliver state-of-the-art rehabilitation and survivorship services to patients facing life-limiting side effects caused by cancer or its treatment.

“Cancer treatment is hard on a patient’s mind and body,” said Tara Ballard, manager, Novant Health cancer survivorship program. “The same treatment intended to save or prolong life may also cause unwanted physical and emotional side effects. These side effects can limit everyday activity and also impact quality of life.”

Novant Health is only the second organization in North Carolina to attain STAR accreditation. This certification provides a more comprehensive cancer rehabilitation program across a broader continuum of care – from pre-treatment through post-treatment and survivorship – resulting in improved outcomes.

“This certification represents a commitment to our patients,” said Ballard. “Survivorship services offered by our STAR-trained team members can lead to quicker recovery, improved quality of life, compliance with treatment, improved outcomes and a greater coordination of care. We’ve already seen that our patients benefit from these services, and we’re proud to now offer this enhanced level of care.”

More than 160 specialty caregivers from a span of disciplines – nursing, rehabilitation, medical oncology, radiation oncology, palliative care, psychosocial support and others – are now trained in recognizing symptoms like pain, fatigue, malnutrition and anxiety. Patients also have access to programs like physical therapy, nutrition, yoga, massage and counseling.

To receive this certification, clinicians were trained and focused on improving patient care outcomes. Novant Health team members have invested more than 2,000 hours to attain STAR certification.