Melissa De Los Santos, BSN, RN, OCN, has extensive experience working with cancer patients and helping them understand and manage their treatments. Before joining HMSL, she served as a stem cell transplant nurse with responsibility for educating both patients and caregivers about the transplant process, infection control and the side effects of chemotherapy.
Melissa’s role includes serving as patient advocate for individuals undergoing breast and gynecologic cancer treatments. She’ll be each patient’s “care partner,” helping to ensure smooth care delivery while providing information and assistance throughout the course of treatment. She’ll also help patients make timely decisions about their treatment, provide assistance with scheduling and other logistical issues, and coordinate with the physicians involved in each patient’s treatment.
“A big part of this job is helping patients feel less ‘on their own,’” says Melissa. “They need to know that they have someone on their side who not only understands their unique situation, but who is always available to lend a hand or listen to a concern or question.”
Melissa will also be responsible for building relationships with community partners and educating the community on cancer-related topics, including assisting with screening and prevention activities and facilitating related support groups.
Please welcome Melissa to HMSL!