Cancer Rehabilitative Services
Enriching function and quality of life are among the goals of the highly effective cancer rehabilitation program offered to patients at the BMC Cancer Center.
Cancer rehabilitation is very similar to other types of rehabilitation after an illness or injury, and can address pain, fatigue, weakness, balance, gait problems, memory, swallowing, concentration, speech impairment and lymphedema.
These side effects of cancer treatment may impact your ability to dress, bathe, prepare meals, climb stairs, drive, walk, maintain your home, care for your children, engage in your favorite hobbies or return to work. Our goal is to improve your ability to function in the areas that are important to you and your family.
These services are offered by BMC’s Center for Rehabilitation via a specially-trained group of Certified STAR (Survivorship Training and Rehabilitation) clinicians comprised of physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech therapists. If you have any problems that you didn’t have before your cancer diagnosis, especially if they interfere with your ability to function or quality of life, you are a candidate for cancer rehabilitation. A referral from your physician is required for these services.
More information about BMC’s Center for Rehabilitation and the STAR program can be obtained by calling 413-447-2203.
Rehabilitation Insurance Coverage
Insurance should cover the cost of rehabilitation care if professionals with licenses in rehabilitation offer the rehabilitation program (all BMC Cancer Center Rehab specialists are licensed). These include physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. As with all insurance issues, check with your carrier about deductibles and co-pays. Berkshire Medical Center accepts most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, along with commercial insurance coverages. If you need assistance in obtaining insurance, please visit BMC's Advocacy for Access program for help.
