Patient Partner Program

Benefits of Our Patient Partner Program

A cancer diagnosis can leave patients searching for answers, reassurance and connection. The Patient Partner Program connects eligible patients with trained cancer survivors who understand what it's like to go through cancer treatment.

Your mentor can offer support, encouragement and practical tips based on their own experience navigating cancer treatment at UMass Memorial Health. They can also help you connect with programs and resources that may be helpful during treatment.

The program is led by our social work team and was developed in partnership with our Patient and Family Advisory Council.

Looking for Support? Become a Patient Participant

Who Can Participate?

You may be eligible if you:

• Receive cancer care at UMass Memorial Health
• Have a diagnosis of: 
  • Breast cancer
  • Sarcoma
  • Head and neck cancer
  • Brain cancer
• Have a stage 0 to III cancer diagnosis

What to Expect as a Patient Participant

• You'll be matched with a trained cancer survivor mentor.
• You'll receive support from someone who has been through a similar experience.
• You'll have a chance to ask questions and learn about resources that may help during treatment.
• You'll connect with your mentor at least once a month. The frequency and duration of interactions beyond that will be determined together.
• You'll communicate by phone, video or in person, based on your preferences and needs.
• Participation is voluntary, and you'll decide how much support is right for you.

Interested in Becoming a Patient Partner Program Mentor?

Mentor Qualifications

You may be eligible to become a mentor if you:

• Received treatment at UMass Memorial Health for stage 0 to III breast, sarcoma, head and neck, or brain cancer
• Completed treatment and have been out of active treatment for at least one year (Note: Hormone therapy is not considered active treatment for this program.)
• Are a compassionate listener
• Have flexibility to connect with patients by phone, video or in person

What to Expect as a Mentor

• You'll be matched with a patient receiving cancer care at UMass Memorial Health.
• You'll share your experience and provide peer support.
• You'll connect with your matched patient at least once a month. The frequency and duration of interactions beyond that will be determined together. 
• You'll communicate by phone, video or in person, based on mutual preferences and availability.
• You may support more than one patient at a time.
• You'll complete volunteer orientation and training, including HIPAA requirements and UMass Memorial Health's Standards of Respect.

Important: Mentors provide peer support and share personal experiences. They do not provide medical advice, clinical recommendations or counseling services.

Mentor Application Process

To become a mentor:

1. Submit a request through this form.
2. A program coordinator will contact you to arrange a phone call and explain next steps. 
3. Complete a mentor application and phone interview.
4. If accepted, complete volunteer onboarding requirements, including CORI forms, identification verification and confidentiality agreements.
5. Attend mentor training and orientation.