When you come to the Kimmel Cancer Center, we encourage you to bring along a family member or friend to accompany you to your appointment. Your companion can help you travel to the hospital, share in listening and asking questions during your consultation, and provide you with the support you may need while trying to make decisions about your health care.

Additionally, you may find it helpful for you bring along the following items during your visit to the Kimmel Cancer Center:

• Your appointment information and materials sent to you in your orientation packet
• Health insurance information including your insurance card(s), special forms, referrals or important phone numbers
• Contact information of where you will be staying in Baltimore, if you're traveling from out-of-town
• Any additional medical records not already sent in advance of your visit
• A list of all your physicians names, addresses and their telephone numbers
• A list of any medications that you are currently taking along with the prescribed dosages
• A pen and notebook and/or folder for keeping a list of questions that you may want to ask the physician, taking notes, and for storing any new paperwork or educational materials collected during your visit
• Books, magazines, crossword puzzles, sewing, or other items that may help you pass the time

Housing Referral Service

There are several temporary housing options available to cancer patients and their families while at the Kimmel Cancer Center for treatment. Some are located within walking distance to the hospital and others are located nearby in downtown Baltimore and the surrounding area. Some facilities will accept reservations in advance based on availability and others operate with a waiting list policy. There are also leasing options available for those who are considering relocating to Baltimore.

Located near the Kimmel Cancer Center, the Hackerman-Patz Patient and Family Pavilion serves as a "home away from home" for families touched by cancer. Comprised of 29 suites and 10 apartments, this facility offers affordable temporary housing for Kimmel Cancer Center patients. The facility brings families together and allows them to share common experiences and problems, to learn from each other, and to gain strength from knowing they do not have to face the challenges of cancer alone.

Many of our patients travel a great distance to meet with our specialists. Additionally, some patients undergoing an intensive course of therapy will be required to stay in Baltimore for many weeks or longer. To help alleviate the added stress of traveling to a new city, the staff at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins can assist families with making travel arrangements and housing accommodations.

Medical Insurance Applications

Patients who need to apply for medical assistance through the State of Maryland may need to complete a series of forms that are available through the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH).  If you need assistance with these forms or the application process, please seek help from The Cancer Center's social work department. They can be reached at 410-955-8934.

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