Neuro-Oncology Caregiver Program

At UCSF, we understand that a brain tumor diagnosis affects not only our patients, but also their families and loved ones. To enhance the excellent medical care we provide, we established the UCSF Neuro-Oncology Gordon Murray Caregiver Program. Our goal is to optimize quality of life for both our patients and their caregivers by ensuring caregivers have the resources and support they need.

Our services

We commonly advise caregivers on the following topics:

• Disease information, including symptoms, medication side effects and what to expect
• Navigating the health care system
• Financial, disability and insurance information
• Guidance for completing advance health care directives
• Connecting with local and community resources for supportive care
• Caregiver-to-caregiver peer support
• Educational workshops designed for neuro-oncology caregivers
• Support groups

Inpatient caregiver program

This program is designed to reach caregivers at the time of their loved one's surgery. Our caregiver nurse meets with family members in the hospital to provide valuable health information and beginning instruction on basic caregiver skills. Our aim is to prepare caregivers to look after the patient from the time of discharge to the first follow-up visit.