The HOPE Clinic at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey has a focus on individuals determined to be at high risk for developing breast or gynecological cancers. The HOPE Clinic works in collaboration with the HOPE Program, which offers patients and families appropriate medical and genetic testing information in addition to support and resources for those confronting cancer risk.
Who is the HOPE Clinic for?
Whether you are at high risk due to having a family history of breast or gynecological cancers or if you have a genetic mutation, you are appropriate to be seen in the HOPE Clinic.
What will happen at my appointment?
Those seen in the HOPE Clinic will meet with an oncology nurse practitioner to best weigh options and develop a personalized risk management plan. Within the clinic you will be examined, and any prior imaging will be reviewed. National Comprehensive Cancer Network® guidelines for clinical practice will be followed and a multi-specialty philosophy used in providing you with the latest in oncology treatment and management for your high-risk condition.
What are the benefits of receiving care in the HOPE Clinic?
- Patient-centered care focused on your needs
- World-class multidisciplinary expertise on a single campus
- Individualized genetic assessment
- Ability to be connected with surgeons, gynecologists and plastic surgeons if surgical intervention is desired
- Access to research advances and ability to participate in pioneering clinical trials
- Unparalleled care from a compassionate and empathetic care team
Other available resources
Genetic Testing
When family history is suggestive of an inherited cancer risk, genetic testing may be available to further define your own risk of cancer as well as the risk to your relatives. If available and recommended, genetic testing is available through the HOPE Program.
Follow-up Plan
Based on the team’s risk assessment, a personalized plan for careful monitoring and/or prevention will be designed and provided to you and your doctors. You may also choose to continue to be seen at our center.
Psychosocial Support
Social workers and genetic counselors will be available to help you and your family address the unique issues involved with assessment and management of cancer risk.
Research
You will have access to appropriate clinical studies to evaluate new methods for the early detection of cancer, cancer prevention, cancer treatment, and genetic testing. Eligibility, benefits, and limitations of these trials will be discussed, when appropriate.
Staff of this program
Valerie Shander, BSN, MSN, FNP, AOCNP, CGRA, Advanced Practice Provider
How to schedule an appointment
For additional information or to schedule an appointment call 844-CANCERNJ.