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The Group Room^®: A Syndicated Radio Cancer Support Group

^a Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; ^b Vital Options®, Encino, California, USA

Correspondence: Michael B. Van Scoy-Mosher, M.D., Attending Physician, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8631 West Third Street, Suite 600 E, Los Angeles, California 90048, USA. Telephone: 310-659-9397; Fax: 310-854-3028; e-mail: mbvsm{at}aol.com

ABSTRACT

"The Group Room" represents a new concept in cancer support groups. It is an internationally syndicated weekly radio talk show allowing participation by patients, their families, and friends, from any location, and with total anonymity. The show is hosted by a cancer survivor and noted patient advocate, along with an oncology specialist and a therapist; accompanying them each week are other patients and people touched by cancer. All join in a discussion of topics of importance to each individual, and respond to questions called in by listeners. Oncologists are often interviewed by phone so that new advances and concepts are brought to the audience. It is hoped that the show will be a useful resource to patients, and a place to which oncologists can confidently refer their patients for education and support.

Key Words. Social support • Patient education • Group processes • Counseling