Frequently Asked Questions

Is CARE an education or a support program?

A: Both. The CARE program teaches participants self-care and coping skills and provides psychosocial support. We recognize that attention to the mind, body and spirit is essential in the healing process.

How can I join CARE?
A: CARE works closely with oncology social workers at SFGH to identify and recruit newly diagnosed patients to CARE. CARE facilitators call potential participants and sign them up for CARE. If you or someone you know would like to participate in CARE, please call CARE Program Coordinator, Angela Alvarez at (415) 206-5912 and she will sign you up for CARE.

I do not have cancer but someone in my family does. Can I join CARE?
A: Yes. The CARE program is designed for people with cancer and/or people who live with someone diagnosed with cancer.

Who can participate in CARE? I know a cancer patient who receives their care and treatment at another hospital and could really benefit from participating in CARE. Do you need to be a San Francisco General Hospital (SFGH) cancer patient to participate in CARE?
A: You do not have to be an SFGH cancer patient to participate in CARE. However, CARE is an SFGH-based program. Cancer patients who receive their care and treatment at SFGH get optimal benefits from the program as CARE staff collaborate with SFGH oncology providers and social workers to provide participants with a seamless network of care. Because the program provides free services and benefits, cancer patients who do not receive their care and treatment at SFGH must be low-income in order to participate in CARE. We welcome any low-income person with a cancer diagnosis to join CARE.

I do not have a car and cannot take MUNI to the CARE group. Can CARE help?
A: Yes. If you need help with transportation, CARE can provide a taxi voucher or MUNI bus token. The taxi voucher or bus token may only be used for transportation to and from the CARE group. If you need help with transportation to the hospital for your cancer care or treatment, the American Cancer Society can help.

Should I bring my children to the CARE group?
A: No. The CARE program, designed for adults with cancer, may make children feel bored or uncomfortable. With advance notice, CARE can provide funds for childcare.

I cannot come to all the CARE sessions. Should I still join CARE?
A: Yes. All CARE sessions are designed to be useful and interesting so the more sessions you attend, the more benefits you’ll receive. However, if you are not able to attend a group session for any reason, please don’t worry. Just show-up for the next session as soon as you are able.