University College Hospital

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1 University College Hospital Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA) Information for patients, relatives and carers

2 About this leaflet Having a diagnosis of cancer can affect you and your quality of life in many different ways. Physical challenges and symptoms are often obvious and are the focus of treatment. There may also be other things that are important to you but you may find difficult to talk about. However, it is often helpful to have a conversation about all the challenges you may be facing to ensure we can support you through them. What is a Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA)? The Holistic Needs Assessment aims to assess your needs as a whole person and not just your illness. It will include, if you choose to, all the broader concerns you may have, such as: emotional spiritual social practical physical financial family and relationships. It will also include anything else that may be on your mind, giving you the opportunity to identify any worries you may have.

3 The assessment can help you prioritise your most important concerns. This will enable us to identify the type of support that is best for you. What does the assessment involve? A simple check list to identify your concerns this could be a paper checklist or an electronic one (on a computer). A conversation with your healthcare professional about your concerns. A written care plan. With your agreement the person carrying out your assessment will refer you to other services that may be of help to you. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can ask for written information about these services. When will the Holistic Needs Assessment take place? You may be offered an assessment around the time of your diagnosis, during treatment or at the end of treatment. Because your needs may change, you can ask for an assessment at any time if you feel it would help. If you have any issues you would like to discuss, you can talk to your clinical nurse specialist (CNS).

4 Do I have to complete a Holistic Needs Assessment? Many patients find completing a Holistic Needs Assessment useful as it can help them to identify what help is available. However, you don t have to complete it if you don t want to. If you do choose to complete it, you can decide how much or how little information you wish to share. Macmillan Support and Information Service The Macmillan Support and Information Service welcomes anyone affected by cancer and/or haematological condition, and their families and friends. It offers emotional support and practical advice from experienced healthcare professionals, a range of information resources and a programme of support activities. You are also welcome to pop in to discuss any concerns that may arise from your Holistic Needs Assessment. You don t need an appointment to visit the service. The team will see you as quickly as possible. The service is located on the ground floor of the University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre. Contact details are on the last page of this leaflet. Opening times: Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm

5 Further information Macmillan Cancer Support Offers information and support to anyone affected by cancer. Tel: Cancer Research UK Provides information about cancer, clinical trials and research. Tel: University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust cannot accept responsibility for information provided by external organisations.

6 Contact details If you have any questions about the Holistic Needs Assessment, please talk to your CNS or contact the Macmillan Support and Information Service: Tel: Website: If you need a large print, audio, braille or translated copy of this leaflet, please contact us on We will do our best to meet your needs. Publication date: November 2015 Last review date: April 2018 Next review date: April 2020 Leaflet code: UCLH/S&C/CD/HNA/2 University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust