Joan Karnell Supportive Care Program
Compassionate support for cancer patients and families
Cancer diagnosis and treatment can be overwhelming. Patients and family members typically have many questions and concerns about the disease and the care that comes with it. The Joan Karnell Supportive Care Program at Pennsylvania Hospital helps you and your family cope with the physical and emotional distress caused by cancer diagnosis and treatment.
We believe that the right support is the essence of compassionate cancer care. Supportive care comes in a variety of shapes and sizes to match your needs and concerns as you work to combat cancer. The less distress you have, the more energy you can direct toward recovery.
An interdisciplinary team to support your needs
Comprehensive supportive care services require the expertise of an interdisciplinary team in order to adequately assess and treat the complex needs of cancer patients and their families. Our team includes professionals from medicine, nursing, social work, psychology, nutrition, massage therapy, art therapy, pastoral care and other professional disciplines.
We have many supportive care services and programs, which are available to all patients from the point of diagnosis. These include:
About Joan Karnell
Joan Karnell was a devoted mother, artist, and gardener who faced ovarian cancer with grace and compassion. Despite the challenges of her own treatment, she remained focused on others, envisioning a better experience for future cancer patients. At a time when oncology care lacked integration and sensitivity, Joan recognized the emotional toll of being treated alongside maternity patients and navigating fragmented hospital services. She dreamed of a dedicated center where cancer patients could receive personalized care, emotional and nutritional support, and dignity throughout their journey.
Joan’s vision laid the foundation for the supportive care programs now offered throughout Penn Medicine. Her legacy lives on through services that address the full spectrum of patient needs. Though she wasn’t a natural leader, Joan stepped up to create lasting change, not for herself, but for her family, her community, and for every patient who would come after her. Her courage and foresight continue to make cancer care more compassionate and connected. She thought of you.