PROJECT PURPOSE

We provide complimentary Oncology massage therapy services to men and women in treatment for cancer. What is Oncology Massage Therapy? Oncology Massage Therapy is a naturopathic method of treatment. We base our services on compassion and specialized massage treatments to help the individual manage their experience with cancer. Our Vision: By improving access to complimentary Oncology Massage Therapy, we reduce the stress, anxiety, pain, and nausea associated with a cancer diagnosis. We help patients navigate their cancer treatment, move into the healing phase, and increase their survivorship. Our Goal: Increase survivorship with each individual patient by improving access to complimentary Oncology Massage Therapy services as well as providing informational, emotional, and practical support through our Community Cancer Group.

EVIDENCE

Acute Medical Treatment includes Cancer Management. "Cancer Management. The effectiveness of massage therapy in helping patients cope with both illnesses and treatments has been demonstrated in studies of cancer care. Studies have corroborated the helpful role of massage therapy in reducing cancer-related discomfort. Several have found that massage therapy was effective for managing pain for various types of cancer , including metastatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and breast cancer. Studies also indicate that massage therapy is effective for physiological outcomes of cancer-related pain populations. A meta-analysis on the effects of massage therapy on cancer found that massage therapy significantly reduced cancer pain compared to no massage control conditions.." AMTA American Massage Therapy Association


POPULATION DESCRIPTION

According to the American Cancer Society, due to the decreased resources and access to care during the pandemic, it will make it more difficult for cancer diagnoses and treatment. Also, with a 94% decrease in early screenings the data suggest that we will see an increase in undiagnosed cases and later stages of cancer with a poorer prognosis. Some deferred medical screenings for fear of contracting the Covid virus. Treatments and surgeries were postponed as well. If we are granted the funds, we will be able to provide oncology massage therapy to those diagnosed, help move them through the healing phase and into survivorship.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

As a partner with Oklahoma Cancer Specialist and Research Institute and Saint Francis Cancer Center, we will be providing Oncology Massage Therapy services onsite, in the infusion room, as patients are receiving treatment. We measure the effectiveness of oncology massage therapy by collecting cancer patient testimonies and data of physical changes over the treatment period.


ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma


PROGRAM CATEGORY

Public Health Expenditures


PROGRAM SUBCATEGORY

Other Public Health Services


FEDERAL GRANT AMOUNT

$

FEDERAL GRANT DESCRIPTION

None


HQ COUNTY

Rogers


ENTITY TYPE

Small 501-C3 Non-profit (<$1M revenue, annually)


Data source: Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services / More information ยป