Patient Support

Established in 2001 to promote and explore the creative arts as a catalyst for healing and therapy. The centre provides our patients with a space to engage in the creative arts in a safe, peaceful, supportive and enjoyable environment.

A dietitian or clinical nutritionist is a health professional who is qualified to give specific advice and recommendations on diets that promote well-being and recovery from disease.

The aim of the complementary therapy service is to provide a safe, comfortable space where a patient can relax and positively address any stress, fear or anxiety associated with a diagnosis and treatment.

The spiritual and pastoral care for all our patients is very important. St. Luke’s Hospital adheres to the HSE Intercultural Guide and responds to the needs of all religious communities and cultures.

The management of the St Luke’s Radiation Oncology Network (SLRON) are aware of the demands placed on patients, families and carers in making transport arrangements for their treatment.

As chartered physiotherapists working in the St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network, we are experienced in the assessment and treatment of a wide range of physical problems that you may have as a result of your cancer or its treatment.

The Psycho-Oncology Department offers expert psychological intervention to patients (both adult and children) and staff on the emotional challenges that may arise at all stages of the cancer journey. In addition, there is a limited service available to support family members.

Radiotherapy is at the core of the clinical treatments provided for cancer patients in St. Luke's Radiation Oncology Network.

A diagnosis of cancer can result in major life adjustments for both you and your family. In these circumstances, social workers can help you to identify solutions that will help you and your family deal with your diagnosis and any problems that may arise as a result.

Most patients who need specialist nursing are treated on a daily basis as out-patients. Nursing assessment is provided for outpatients when treatment begins and day care is provided when required.

Current support groups and programmes available

Many people find coming in and out of hospital for treatment stressful. One way of creating the “relaxation response” is progressive muscular relaxation. This form of relaxation training is found to be helpful with people coping with physical illness and ongoing medical treatment, and research has demonstrated its calming physical effects. With a little practice, anyone can reap these benefits.

Bibliotherapy is the use of books for therapeutic purposes. It has been recommended by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) UK as a useful start in treating mild and moderate depression, anxiety and panic and some other mental health problems. The effectiveness of bibliotherapy continues to be researched and there is good evidence to show that quality self-help books can be useful with a range of psychological issues.