SUPPORT
FOR PATIENTS
SUPPORT
FOR OPTUNE
SUPPORT
FOR CARE-GIVERS
Optune is a new treatment, and there can be misconceptions or barriers to accessing and using it. To help, we host the UK Optune Support group, which includes patients using Optune in trials or as part of routine care, no matter the location or type of cancer being treated.
OPTUNE UK SUPPORT GROUP
ABOUT THE SUPPORT GROUP
Monthly online peer support groups (via Zoom) for patients and caregivers.
WhatsApp group: For quicker access to support. To join, email l.pakzad-shahabi@imperial.ac.uk with your mobile number.
Open information sessions: Hear directly from patients and caregivers about their experiences with Optune. These sessions are available to potential users, healthcare professionals and others interested in learning more.
Support team: The UK Optune Support group is hosted by Dr. Matt Williams (Oncologist), Ms. Shivani Soni (Clinical Nurse Specialist), and Ms. Lillie Pakzad-Shahabi (Clinical Research Practitioner).
VIEW AND RSVP TO UPCOMING SUPPORT GROUPS
(the last week of each month)
Monthly sessions are held on Zoom
This is a great opportunity to connect with the UK Optune community, share experiences, gain insights, and support each other in the journey with Optune.
Why join?
Are you or your loved one considering Optune?
Do you have questions or concerns about how it works?
Would you like to hear from someone with first-hand experience of using Optune?
OPTUNE UK BUDDY SCHEME
We run a monthly online Optune Open group where patients and caregivers considering Optune can talk to people currently using it. This is a chance to ask questions and hear real-life experiences. However, we understand that not everyone can attend on the day, or some may want to speak to someone sooner. That’s why we also offer the Optune Support UK Buddy Scheme.
Peer Support for Optune in the UK
The scheme matches patients and caregivers with a current Optune user or caregiver, offering a one-to-one video call to hear about their personal experiences.
This introductory chat can help you understand the day-to-day realities of using Optune, ask questions, and decide whether it might be the right option for you or your loved one.
When you sign up, you’ll be matched with a buddy and we’ll arrange a video call. These calls are not recorded, and your personal data is handled in line with GDPR regulations. During the call, Dr Williams or Ms Pakzad-Shahabi will be present in the background in case signposting is needed beyond the scope of the scheme.
If you need ongoing support after your buddy call, we recommend joining our monthly Open information Sessions or Support Groups.
What is the Optune Support UK Buddy Scheme?
Most importantly, hear honest, first-hand experiences
Get a sense of the support available once you begin using Optune
Understand how array changes work
Discover what users wish they’d known before starting
Hear what it’s like to live day-to-day with Optune
Learn what to expect when the device is delivered
Through your call with a buddy, you or your loved one may
What to expect from the scheme
- Does not replace a medical consultation or your oncology team’s advice
- Does not offer medical guidance, diagnosis, or treatment decisions
- Is not a counselling or psychological support service
- Does not replace the support of your Clinical Nurse Specialist
It’s important to know that the Optune Support UK Buddy Scheme:
