Support Services

Pediatrics Hematology and Oncology Support Services Team

Resources

Streetlight

The Streetlight Program at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital is a free adolescent and young adult support program for patients aged 13-30 living with chronic illnesses or life-limiting illnesses. 

Pediatric Oncology Social Work

The role of the pediatric oncology social worker is to help patients, families, and caregivers deal with the experience of facing cancer. Our licensed clinical social workers are educated and skilled to assist with the psychological, social, emotional, and spiritual issues that often arise when a child is diagnosed with cancer.

Child Life Program

This program was established to help children and families cope with the stress and anxiety of hospitalization. Child Life Specialists at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital are certified professionals who work in partnership with families, doctors, nurses, and other caregivers to meet the unique emotional and developmental needs of children and families.

Pediatric Palliative Care

Palliative care can help any child at any age or stage of a serious illness, starting from diagnosis.

Arts in Medicine

Our programs are designed to transform the hospital experience for patients, visitors, caregivers and staff and to promote health and wellness through the arts within the community.

Footprints: Buddy and Support Program

Footprints: Buddy and Support Program is a student-run volunteering and community service organization benefiting UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital


Health & Wellness Video Series


Local and Online Support Programs

Stupid Cancer!

A nonprofit organization and the leader in young adult cancer advocacy, research, and support. They create shared experiences by producing life-changing live events and digital content that end isolation, build community, provide education, and foster meaningful relationships that last a lifetime. They’re mission is to empower, support, and improve health outcomes for the young adult (ages 15 – 39) cancer community.

Momcology

A national nonprofit organization committed to extending the benefits of community by providing peer support for childhood cancer families. They provide modern platforms for primary caregivers to connect with each other, support one another, seek current and timely information, and begin the long-term healing process after a childhood cancer diagnosis through a strong, resilient and educated peer support community.

NCCS Mentoring Program

National Childhood Cancer Society (NCCS) provides an opportunity for children ages 10-17 who are in treatment to be partnered with childhood cancer survivors who are now young adults. The mentors are an experienced guide, trusted ally, and caring role model in helping face the challenges of childhood cancer.

HealthStreet Cancer Connections

Cancer Connections is a monthly educational and networking meeting held at HealthStreet for cancer healthcare professionals and cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. Anyone who is involved in the care or treatment of cancer patients or who provide a service to them is welcomed to join. The group meets at HealthStreet on the 3rd Wednesday of every month from 12pm-1pm featuring prominent cancer healthcare professionals. For more information about how to get involved with Cancer Connections, contact Barb Thomas at bnbbarb@aol.com

ACCO Support Group on Inspire.com

American Childhood Cancer Organization (ACCO) introduced a 24/7 online community in partnership with Inspire.com in 2008. They’ve created a place where you can connect with others who know what you are going through. Among the many exciting features the new community offers, you can:

NCCS Family Support Program

National Childhood Cancer Society (NCCS) helps ease the emotional strain a childhood cancer diagnosis takes on families by providing a case manager who stands by a family’s side throughout their journey. NCCS case managers are trained in providing practical and emotional support to parents and caregivers. These dedicated individuals offer support during difficult times, educate parents and caregivers on how to best advocate for their child and provide referrals when needed.

CBTF Family to Family Mentor Program

Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation (CBTF)’s longest running program, the Family 2 Family (F2F) Mentor Program connects caregiver, survivor, and bereaved caregiver mentors to families who are seeking peer support. They recognize the expertise and support which can be provided by people who have shared a similar experience.

Hemophilia Foundation of Greater Florida

Florida chapter of the National Hemophilia Foundation offering programs and services to support a healthier and more independent life for patients with Hemophilia


More Psychosocial Support at UF Health

Arts in Medicine (Inpatient Only)
Monday – Friday, 9a – 5pm | Contact Via Bedside Nurse

  • Artists in Residence & Volunteers
  • Visual, performing, & literary arts at the bedside.

Case Management (Inpatient Only)
Contact Primary Medical Team

  • Referral for home medical supplies
  • Arrange hospital to hospital transfer
  • Referral for home health
  • Referral to pediatric skilled nursing facility
  • Insurance authorization as needed for discharge
  • Referral to pediatric inpatient rehab

Clinical Psychology (Consultation/Liaison Service)
Contact Primary Medical Team

  • Assessment of psychological functioning, coping & adjustment
  • Targeted interventions
  • Treatment plan development
  • Outpatient therapy services

Customer Service – (352) 265-0355
Billing Questions/Payment Plans

Dance/Movement Therapy
Contact Primary Medical Team

  • Available for Patients & Families
  • Expressive movement & creative arts
  • Art & body-based coping strategies

HealthStreet
(352) 294-4880

  • Health Insurance Navigator
  • Free Therapy Night
  • Community Support Groups
  • Referral for free/low-cost medical care
  • Clothing & Toiletry Pantry

Insurance Counseling
Admissions Desk; 1st Floor | (352) 265-0236
May be able to help compare/contrast available plans and discuss resulting benefit coverage

Integrative Medicine
Contact Primary Medical Team

  • Integrative Medicine Assessment
  • Meditation/Relaxation
  • Tai Chi therapy
  • Massage Therapy

Neuropsychology
Contact Primary Medical Team

  • Assessment of neurocognitive functioning (inpatient)
  • Comprehensive neuropsych evaluations (outpatient)

Pediatric Guest Services
Kiosk in front of unit 4400 | (352) 594-5674

  • Bravery Beads
  • In-Kind Donations
  • Hospital Amenities