Providence Cancer Institute launches holistic support program for breast cancer patients

Providence Cancer Institute has introduced a new Survivorship Program for breast cancer patients in Portland. The initiative is designed to support individuals beyond the standard phases of surgery and treatment. Its primary goal is to help patients maintain a high quality of life after their active care ends.

Dr. Poorni Manohar, an oncologist at the institute, is leading the development of the program. She was hired specifically to build this framework. The program builds on existing services but adds a structured approach to long-term patient care. Manohar stated that the goal is to connect patients with holistic support starting from the first day of diagnosis.

The program addresses multiple dimensions of patient health. These areas include psychological well-being, mental health, sexual health, bone health, heart health, physical health, and daily functioning. Manohar said the aim is to ensure patients feel they are not just surviving treatment, but are building a functional life afterward.

One specific service offered through the program is a sound bath. This is a meditative experience intended to reduce stress and fear. Michelle Ferretti, an oncology social worker, described the session as a way to guide patients into a calmer state. She noted that the experience helps create a soothing environment for the body.

Ferretti explained that the sound bath uses varying audio tones. The session may include bold sounds or soft, twinkling noises. She described the process as moving patients through a landscape of sound that supports relaxation. The intention is to help patients feel grounded and settled during their recovery.

Ferretti emphasized that cancer care is a full human experience, not just a medical one. She said the program needs to attend to all parts of a person as they integrate their cancer experience. Her hope is that all breast cancer patients will feel empowered and less alone in their journey.

Manohar has worked with similar programs at other facilities in the country. She plans to expand this specific program to all cancer patients in the future. She also intends to bring the model to other Providence sites.