Online offer starts on August 21, 2024 and is aimed at people without basic medical training to support cancer patients and their relatives.
During oncological care, patients and their relatives not only have to deal with medical, but also psychosocial and socio-legal aspects. With the aim of providing individual and comprehensive care for those affected and their relatives, the OnkoHelfer program of the Comprehensive Center Center (CCC) of Hannover Medical School (MHH) aims to provide interested laypersons without basic medical training with information to provide the best possible support for people suffering from cancer and their relatives. After a successful first round in 2023, a second round is now starting on August 21, 2024.
From therapy offers to patient rights and rehabilitation
The “OnkoHelfer” topics range from forms of support in cancer medicine, patient participation, self-care, patient rights and social law aspects to knowledge about oncological diseases, treatment options, oncological care and rehabilitation. The entire program consists of six modules with nine teaching units, each lasting 180 minutes. The program lasts three months and takes place exclusively online, from 4 p.m. to 7.15 p.m. on different days of the week. Interested parties can also attend individual modules and join at any time. Participation is free of charge, but registration is required.
Former participants praise the program
The “OnkoHelfer” program received a lot of positive feedback after its first run in 2023. Nicola Ziebolz (54), a former participant in the program, says: "Thanks to the information from OnkoHelfer about exercise, I was able to get my husband, who has cancer, to do rehabilitation sports at MHH. And it's really, really good for him. I also feel more informed and better prepared should my husband's cancer marker rise again. I wouldn't end up fainting and unable to act like I did last time."
Monika Schröder (61), medical-technical laboratory assistant, says: "The `OnkoHelfer´ program has given me valuable tips on how best to research relevant oncological information on the Internet or search for self-help groups, doctors and clinics. I thought it was great that I could also take part in the program online. This makes it possible to participate from anywhere in Germany."
Please note: Participation does not entitle you to practice as an "OnkoHelfer" (m/f/d) and/or use the title.
Further information on the program and free registration at www.mhh.de/ccc/onkoakademie/onkohelfer.
Text: Maike Isfort