3.15 : Healthcare Agencies I

Healthcare agencies provide healthcare services to people. In the United States, voluntary agencies are often non-profit centers sponsored by donations, grants, or fundraisers. One such organization is Meals on Wheels, which provides meals to the elderly and homebound. The American Heart Association and the American Lung Association are other non-profit community organizations. Doctors and nurses are frequently active members of these organizations, which offer health checks and educational initiatives.

Support groups are often considered voluntary organizations. These groups provide patients dealing with health issues with an education and support structure. Members of support groups have all experienced similar problems. They learn to address difficulties in stressful or emergencies by sharing their experiences. Professional nurses frequently give patients and family members information and referrals to these organizations. Examples of support groups include:

• Alcoholics Anonymous is a worldwide organization of alcoholics in recovery. This support group aims to assist people in staying sober. Meetings are held in public places such as churches and hospitals.
• Cancer support groups concentrate on providing assistance and resolving challenges encountered by cancer patients. The majority of cancer support group sessions are placed in hospitals.
• Reach to Recovery is a program for women who have had a breast removed due to cancer or had breast reconstruction surgery. Examples of support for members include visits before surgery, instruction on exercises to minimize muscle atrophy, and information on prostheses and apparel.