This information describes the support services available to you and your family and friends at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK).
Chaplaincy Services
212-639-5982
At MSK, our chaplains are available to listen, to help support family members, to pray, to contact community clergy or faith groups, or simply to be a comforting companion and a spiritual presence. Anyone can request spiritual support, regardless of formal religious affiliation. The Mary French Rockefeller All Faith Chapel is located in room M106 near the main lobby of the hospital, and is open 24 hours a day. If you have an emergency, please call the hospital operator at 212-639-2000 and ask for the chaplain on call.
Clinical Genetics Service
646-888-4050
Our genes may contribute to our risk of developing certain types of cancer. If you have a family history of cancer, the Clinical Genetics Service at MSK can help you to understand your risk for disease. We offer genetic counseling and testing, and can help you make informed medical decisions. We are located at 222 East 70th Street between Second and Third Avenues.
Counseling Center
646-888-0200
Many people find that counseling helps them deal with emotions during cancer treatment. Our counselors provide counseling for individuals, couples, families, and groups, as well as medications to help with anxiety or depression. Our counselors are also available to inpatients during their hospital stay. We are located at 641 Lexington Avenue between Lexington and Third Avenues.
Evelyn H. Lauder Breast Center Boutique
646-888-5330
Our boutique offers a large selection of head coverings, prosthetics, and bathing suits. It is located on the 2nd floor of the Evelyn H. Lauder Breast Center at 300 East 66th Street at Second Avenue. The boutique is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Integrative Medicine Service
646-888-0800
Our Integrative Medicine Service offers many therapies to complement traditional medical care. Some of our services include music therapy, mind/body therapies, dance and movement therapy, yoga, and touch therapy. Our services are available to patients, their families and caregivers, and the general public. The Bendheim Integrative Medicine Center is located at 1429 First Avenue, at East 74th Street.
Nutrition Services
212-639-7071
Our Nutrition Service offers nutritional counseling with one of our certified dietitians. Your dietitian will review your current eating habits and give advice on what to eat during and after treatment.
Occupational and Physical Therapy
646-888-1900
At MSK, we offer a variety of rehabilitation services, including occupational and physical therapy. Physical therapy can help you to move and function better and improve your overall fitness and health. Occupational therapy can help you regain and build skills to help you function independently. Rehabilitation services can help you decrease pain and regain your independence. We offer both inpatient and outpatient services for adults and children.
Palliative Medicine Service
Our Palliative Medicine Service is dedicated to relieving pain and improving the quality of life for patients at MSK. Palliative care includes any treatment given to relieve the symptoms caused by cancer. Patients can get palliative care at any point during treatment. Our doctors and nurses specialize in helping patients manage physical symptoms, such as pain, shortness of breath, and nausea, as well as emotional issues, such as sadness, depression, and anxiety. We work with the patient’s primary team, providing an extra layer of support. If you feel that you or your loved one may benefit from the care provided by the Palliative Medicine Service, talk with your doctor.
Patient-to-Patient Support Program
212-639-5007
Our Patient-to-Patient Support Program gives patients in active treatment and their caregivers the chance to speak with former patients and caregivers. Many patients have found it helpful to speak with someone who has been through a similar treatment. These conversations may take place in person, over the phone, or through email.
Patient Representatives
212-639-7202
The patient representatives at MSK are here to make sure your rights are respected and your concerns are addressed. We can speak on your behalf, represent your interests, and answer any questions you have about hospital policies and procedures. We are available anytime, but are most helpful while a situation is occurring, instead of after the fact.
Resources for Life After Cancer (RLAC) Program
646-888-8106
At MSK, your care doesn’t end after treatment. The RLAC Program offers support services for cancer survivors and their families. The services include seminars, workshops, and support groups to address topics related to cancer survivorship including insurance, employment, emotional concerns, and caregiver issues.
Sexual Health Program
Cancer and cancer treatments can have an impact on your sexual health. MSK’s Sexual Health Program can help you take action and address sexual health issues before, during, or after your treatment.
- Our Male Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Program helps male patients who are dealing with cancer-related sexual health challenges, including erectile dysfunction. For more information, or to make an appointment, please call 646-888-6024.
- Our Female Sexual Medicine and Women’s Health Program helps female patients who are dealing with cancer-related sexual health challenges, including premature menopause and fertility issues. For more information, or to make an appointment, please call 646-888-5076.
Social Work
212-639-7020
Our social workers provide emotional support and guidance to patients and their families and friends. Some of our services include ongoing programs for patients who are in treatment and their caregivers and in-person and online support groups. We can also help with practical issues such as transportation problems and financial concerns. Social workers are available on every patient floor of the main hospital and at all of the outpatient facilities, including our regional clinics. To speak with a social worker, ask your doctor or nurse, or call the number listed above.
Speech, Hearing, and Rehabilitation Program
212-639-5856
Certain cancers and treatments may affect your ability to swallow, speak, or hear. The Speech, Hearing, and Rehabilitation Program can help you to restore these functions and improve your quality of life. We are located in the Howard Building at 1274 York Avenue, Room H-120.
Tobacco Treatment Program
212-610-0507
The Tobacco Treatment Program at MSK can help you stop using tobacco, whether or not you are a patient at MSK. We use a wide range of approaches to help you quit including medications and behavioral techniques. We are located at 641 Lexington Avenue between East 54th and East 55th Streets on the 7th floor.