Wendt Regional Cancer Center

While some cancers happen by chance, there are contributing factors for some that can increase an individual's risk of being diagnosed with cancer. Heredity is one factor that can play an important role in the development of certain cancers, such as breast, colon, ovarian and endometrial. Having knowledge of such genetic alterations in a family can allow individuals to make informed decisions regarding cancer prevention. Through genetic counseling, screenings, surgeries and additional medical management options, the Wendt Regional Cancer Center helps patients gain a better understanding of their risk for developing cancer.

Cost of Genetic Counseling

The Wendt Regional Cancer Center does not charge a fee for genetic counseling. However, there is a cost for lab work and specific genetic testing. When you schedule a genetic counseling session, it is not mandatory to continue with genetic testing. These decisions are left to the individual seeking additional care. If genetic testing is desired, the Wendt Regional Cancer Center does provide genetic testing. If you choose to have genetic testing done, most health insurance companies cover part, or all, of the testing costs. Concerns about insurance coverage and genetic discrimination are also discussed before proceeding with genetic testing.

Learn about the life saving benefits of genetic counseling.

For more information, call the experts at Wendt Regional Cancer Center at (563) 589-2468.

Finley Hospital's cancer team knows that the best chance of a cure for lung cancer is early detection. That's why we've developed lung screening. Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women and is typically diagnosed at a more advanced stage after the cancer has spread. By making this test available, we can diagnose patients sooner and get them on the road to recovery faster.

Don't wait for the warning signs. Unlike some diseases, lung cancer can be diagnosed and treated more effectively with early screening and detection. Call (563) 589-2549 to talk with our lung screening coordinator.

FAQs

• The lung screening includes a low dose CT scan of the chest. The entire chest is scanned in 15 seconds or less. Radiologists review images for the presence of small spots on the lungs, called nodules. In addition to the lung screening, you will meet with Finley's nurse navigator who will help assess your individual risk for lung cancer based on your history and risk factors, and will also provide education on a healthy lifestyle, prevention efforts and important screening exams.
• All tests are done in one appointment. Plane on the appointment taking approximately 30 minutes.
• Finley is the only place that offers a low dose CT scan, which means the amount of radiation used is very small.
• It's likely the cost of Finley's lung screening will be covered by private insurance or Medicare or Medicaid because we use a low-dose CT scan.

Oncology rehabilitation is offered at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital Asbury Square Outpatient Rehab. We provide oncology rehabilitation services to individuals with cancer and cancer survivors. Our goal through oncology rehab is to reduce the symptom burden, maximize independence and improve quality of life for patients throughout treatment and survivorship. Our cancer rehab services include physical, occupational and speech therapy to help patients improve strength, maintain and restore function and regain control of their lives.

Led by Integrated Cancer Center team members, this support group was created with every cancer patient in mind, no matter their cancer journey stage.

Topics include:

• Patient’s perspective
• Nutrition
• Symptom management
• Emotional support
• Movement/rehabilitation
• Chemotoxicity
• Exercise
• And more

Join Us

Third Wednesday of each Month
3 to 4 p.m.
Delhi Medical Center Conference Room, Suite 3300

For more information regarding this support group, please contact the Wendt Regional Cancer Center at (563) 589-2468.

Work with our Exercise Physiologist to improve strength, endurance, and mobility through a research-based exercise program. Exercise has been shown to decrease cancer treatment-related symptoms and improve physical and mental well-being. Exercise physiology specializes in the body’s responses to physical activity and how it affects areas of the body like the heart, lungs, and muscles.

Our Exercise Physiologist received a Level 2 Clinical Cancer Exercise Specialist Certification from the University of Northern Colorado Cancer Rehabilitation Institute (UNCCRI). UNCCRI uses a research-based Phase program to use exercise as medicine. This exercise-based rehab program will be tailored to your individual needs and goals.

The program focuses on:

• Cardiovascular Conditioning
• Strength Training
• Stretching Techniques
• Balance and Mobility

Cost

$1,400 for a 12-week individualized program with 1-on-1 support and guidance. The program is self-pay and does not bill insurance. After completing the 12-week program, participants can work out independently in the gym for $5 per session.

For more information or to sign up for the exercise program, call (563) 589-2552.

Your radiation oncologist will oversee and manage your cancer treatment plan, while keeping you well informed of the steps being taken throughout your cancer care.

The oncology nurse navigators are your consistent point of contact throughout your diagnosis, treatment and onto survivorship. They assist you through the complex system of health care so you can focus on your care and needs.

Your oncology nurses will help manage your individual cancer treatment side effects, while offering encouragement and hope throughout your journey. Our nurses - board-certified in oncology, pain, and palliative care - encourage active decision making and participation of the patient during their cancer care.

The radiation physicist makes sure all radiation therapy equipment is running appropriately and works with the dosimetrist and therapists to ensure safe delivery of your radiation therapy.

The radiation dosimetrist works with your radiation oncologist and physicist to calculate the appropriate amount of radiation therapy needed during each of your therapy visits.

Radiation therapists operate the machine that provides you with radiation therapy. Our radiation therapists will answer any questions you may have regarding your treatment.

The pharmacist can provide information about chemotherapy and other medications and their possible side effects.

Social workers assist in setting up home care and equipment or alternative arrangements. Social workers can provide direction on financial programs, counseling and support groups.

The chaplain is available for emotional and spiritual support and is a liaison to local parishes. They can provide information and education on Advance Directives.

The dietitian can assist in evaluating nutritional needs and provide education and advice about coping with the effects of cancer and its treatment as it relates to diet and nutrition.

Educators can provide literature or recommend resources on health-related topics.

Secretaries, located at the front desk area, will welcome you upon each arrival to the Wendt Cancer Center. They will assist with any paperwork or answer any initial questions you may have.

Julie became a nurse in 1982, after she went through a courageous battle with osteosarcoma, a bone cancer.

"I had always wanted to be a nurse but this helped push me along," Julie said.

In 1986, Julie started as a nurse at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital and graduated from the University of Dubuque in 1991 with her BSN degree. Throughout her time at Finley Hospital, Julie has worked in the oncology inpatient unit, general surgery and orthopedics, ICU, and most recently the Wendt Center since 2008.

"All of the departments I've worked in at Finley have broadened my ability to care for our cancer patients," Julie said.

Mary Carol received her nursing degree from the Finley School of Nursing in May of 1981, the same time she joined the nursing staff at Finley Hospital on the surgical floor. It was on that floor when Mary Carol discovered her passion for caring for oncology patients, as this was where in-house chemotherapy was done.

"That's where my love for oncology patients started," Mary Carol said.

She started in the Wendt Center in February of 1991, under the direction of Dr. Thomas Lally. Throughout her Finley nursing career, Mary Carol has been part of the Professional Development Program and American Cancer Society Relay for Life fundraising team, in addition to helping with the cancer support group and obtaining her oncology certified nurse (OCN) certification in 2008.