Blog - Ardynn

Caring for the Caregiver: Whole-Person Support for the Ones Who Hold It All Together

March 20, 2025

If you’re caring for someone with cancer, we want to start with this: You matter. Deeply. Whether you’re a partner, sibling, adult child, best friend, or simply someone who stepped up when life called for it—you are doing something extraordinary. And often, it comes at a quiet cost. At Ardynn, we support the person with cancer—but we never overlook the ones standing beside them. Because behind every strong patient is someone else quietly juggling schedules, holding space, and keeping everything afloat. The Quiet Weight of “Being Strong” Caregivers are often the emotional anchor and the logistics coordinator. You might be the one: And while others may say, “You’re so strong,” you might be thinking: “I’m barely holding it together.” You’re not alone. Research shows that 60% of cancer caregivers experience symptoms of anxiety or depression, and one in five report high levels of distress that impact their own health and well-being (National Alliance for Caregiving & AARP, 2021; American Cancer Society, 2023). Yet too often, the caregiver’s needs remain unseen. That’s why at Ardynn, we don’t just support patients—we support the people who care for them. You Deserve Support, Too When someone you love is supported by Ardynn, you are,

Reducing Avoidable Costs in Cancer Care with Proactive, Whole-Person Engagement

February 3, 2025

The rising cost of cancer care isn’t just about treatments—it’s about the consequences of fragmented, delayed, or misaligned decisions. Unplanned emergency visits, missed appointments, low-value interventions, and member disengagement all drive up costs that could be avoided with the right support, at the right time. In fact, nearly 30% of cancer-related emergency department visits are considered potentially avoidable, often triggered by unmanaged symptoms or a lack of timely guidance (Zheng et al., JCO Oncology Practice, 2020). And patients who report low levels of health system navigation and communication are more likely to experience care delays and unnecessary hospitalizations (Cancer, 2019). Health plans already invest significantly in care management and utilization strategies, yet many still rely on reactive outreach—often too late to prevent costly escalations. That’s where Ardynn steps in. We build trusted, sustained relationships from the moment of diagnosis. Our dedicated advocates engage proactively—offering personalized, whole-person support that helps members feel informed, connected, and confident in their decisions. Here are some examples of our proactive approach: This proactive model works. Programs that integrate advocacy and personalized support for people with cancer have been shown to reduce avoidable hospital admissions by up to 20% and increase adherence to evidence-based care (American

Supporting Employees Through Complex Diagnoses: The Impact of Advocacy in the Workplace

January 10, 2025

When an employee receives a life-changing diagnosis—cancer, heart disease, or another serious condition—stress doesn’t pause. In fact, it often compounds. Between trying to grasp medical terms, navigate fragmented care, manage insurance, and keep up with work responsibilities, many employees feel overwhelmed and alone. In a study by the American Cancer Society (2022), nearly 60% of people with cancer reported significant financial and administrative stress related to their care. These burdens don’t stay at home—they follow employees into the workplace, affecting performance, morale, and overall well-being. For employers, this isn’t just a health issue—it’s a leadership opportunity. At Ardynn, we partner with organizations to offer employees the kind of support that changes outcomes. Our advocates step in early, walking alongside members with one-on-one, personalized guidance that spans far beyond the clinical. For example: These stories are backed by data. A study published in Health Affairs (2021) found that employees with access to professional advocacy services were 30% more likely to adhere to treatment and 25% less likely to experience care delays due to insurance or logistical barriers. This support doesn’t just improve health outcomes—it reduces stress and keeps employees connected to their work and their lives. The ROI is clear. In

“I Googled It…”: Why Finding Answers Online Can Be Overwhelming—and How Ardynn Can Help

December 13, 2024

If you’ve ever typed your diagnosis into Google, you’re not alone. Most people facing cancer turn to the internet at some point, looking for answers, reassurance, or just something to help make sense of it all. It’s completely understandable. When you’re overwhelmed or scared, information feels like control. But here’s the problem: the internet doesn’t know you. So Much Information. So Little Clarity. A simple search can bring up pages and pages of results—articles, statistics, survival rates, message boards, videos, personal stories. Some of it’s helpful. Some of it’s terrifying. And a lot of it is hard to understand or out of context. You might find: Before you know it, you’re down a rabbit hole at 2 a.m., feeling more overwhelmed than when you started. You deserve better than a search bar. That’s where Ardynn comes in. When you have a dedicated advocate, you don’t have to rely on Google to figure things out. You have someone in your corner, who understands the complexities of cancer, knows your situation, listens to your concerns, and walks you through the answers that actually apply to you. A Human Voice in a Sea of Noise You don’t need more noise. You need someone

Advancing Health Equity in Cancer Care: Why Trust and Advocacy Matter

November 3, 2024

Despite major breakthroughs in cancer treatment and early detection, stark disparities in outcomes persist—and for many communities, they’re getting worse, not better. Black Americans, for example, continue to experience the highest cancer death rates of any racial or ethnic group in the U.S. (American Cancer Society, 2024). Hispanic and Native American populations are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages, and low-income individuals are significantly more likely to experience delays in care or receive lower-quality treatment (JAMA Oncology, 2023). For health plans committed to advancing health equity, these gaps are not just a moral issue—they’re a strategic one. Avoidable disparities drive up long-term costs, fragment population health efforts, and erode trust in the system. But closing these gaps requires more than one-size-fits-all outreach. It requires deep, ongoing relationships—and above all, trust. At Ardynn, we meet members where they are. Our approach is rooted in culturally responsive, one-on-one advocacy that considers the whole person—not just their diagnosis. We don’t just ask, “What treatment are you receiving?” We ask,“Who do you rely on?” “What concerns haven’t you voiced yet?” “What makes you feel seen?” This is how we build trust that leads to better care. For example: These moments matter. And

When Patients Lead, Outcomes Improve

September 21, 2024

A cancer diagnosis brings more than medical decisions—it brings fear, uncertainty, and often, a feeling of lost control. But when people are invited to lead their treatment decisions, everything shifts. At Ardynn, we hear it all the time: “I didn’t know I could say no.”“I just wanted someone to explain it in a way that made sense to me.”“Once I understood the tradeoffs, I made a choice that finally felt like mine.” The old model of care—where physicians made decisions for patients—is being replaced by something better: shared, collaborative, patient-led care. And the evidence is clear: when people are informed and empowered, outcomes improve (Barry & Edgman-Levitan, 2012). Why It Matters: What the Research—and Real Life—Show Us Better Adherence. Fewer Hospitalizations. Higher Satisfaction.When people actively participate in their treatment decisions, they are more likely to follow through on their plan, understand what to expect, and speak up when something doesn’t feel right. In one study, people with diabetes who participated in shared decision-making had better blood sugar control and fewer hospital admissions than those who didn’t (Stacey et al., 2017). In cancer care, where tradeoffs often involve balancing survival with side effects, that kind of engagement can be lifesaving. Better

When Treatment Reflects What Matters Most

August 21, 2024

After a cancer diagnosis, one of the first things many people hear is a list of treatment options. Surgery. Chemo. Radiation. Targeted therapy. Each comes with its own risks, benefits, and tradeoffs. But what’s often missing in these conversations is the question:What matters most to you? One of our members, a 67-year-old man living with prostate cancer and COPD, put it simply: “They asked what I wanted to do, but no one asked what I wanted my life to look like.” He wasn’t alone. People facing cancer often feel rushed, overwhelmed, or unprepared to make decisions. But when they’re supported in connecting treatment options with their values—whether that means staying independent, avoiding pain, attending a child’s wedding, or having more time—they feel more confident and less alone. And the research is clear: when treatment decisions are made in the context of a patient’s values and preferences, outcomes improve (Institute of Medicine, 2011). What We Mean by Values and Preferences Values are the beliefs and priorities that shape how someone sees their health and life.They might include faith, family, dignity, quality of life, independence, or leaving a legacy. Preferences are how those values translate into decisions: Each person’s approach is different.

How to Have Tough Conversations About Cancer with Your Family and Friends

July 21, 2024

A cancer diagnosis changes everything—and often, one of the hardest parts is having to tell the people you love. These conversations can be deeply emotional, sometimes awkward, and often overwhelming. But they’re also essential. Sharing your diagnosis can help you build the support system you’ll need throughout your journey. At Ardynn, we often hear: “I didn’t know how to start the conversation. I was worried about upsetting them—or not having the right words.” You’re not alone. Here’s a compassionate, step-by-step guide to help you approach these important conversations with clarity, confidence, and care. 1. Prepare Yourself First Before you talk to others, take a moment to reflect on what you need from the conversation. Are you looking for emotional support? Help with logistics? Or do you just want to share the news? Try to get familiar with your diagnosis and treatment plan so you feel more grounded. Your Ardynn advocate can help you understand your options, clarify language, and even practice the conversation with you ahead of time (American Cancer Society, 2022). 2. Choose the Right Setting Find a quiet, comfortable place where you won’t be interrupted. Timing matters too—choose a time when everyone can be fully present and emotionally

Best Ways to Support a Loved One with Cancer

June 21, 2024

When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, it can be a challenging time for everyone involved. As a friend or family member, you may feel unsure about how best to support them. The journey through cancer is deeply personal and complex, but your support can make a significant difference. Here are some thoughtful and effective ways to support a loved one with cancer. 1. Listen Actively Be Present: Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is simply be there. Offer a listening ear without trying to solve their problems or provide unsolicited advice. Encourage Open Communication: Let them express their feelings and fears. Avoid interrupting or steering the conversation. Show empathy and validate their emotions. 2. Educate Yourself Learn About the Disease: Understanding the type of cancer your loved one is facing, their treatment options, and potential side effects can help you provide better support. Stay Informed: Keep up with their treatment plan and any changes. This knowledge will enable you to offer practical assistance and emotional support more effectively. 3. Offer Practical Help Daily Tasks: Offer to help with everyday chores like cooking, cleaning, grocery shopping, or driving them to appointments.

Optimizing Conversations with People Facing Cancer: A Clinician’s Guide

May 21, 2024

In cancer care, communication is more than just a means of delivering information—it’s a critical part of treatment. The way we talk with our patients impacts how they process their diagnosis, engage with care plans, and ultimately, how they experience their journey. At Ardynn, we work closely with both patients and providers, and we’ve seen firsthand how meaningful communication improves decision-making, reduces anxiety, and builds lasting trust. Here are practical ways physicians can optimize conversations to better support patients—clinically, emotionally, and personally. 1. Set the Right Tone from the Start Creating a safe, private space—both physically and emotionally—sets the foundation for open dialogue. Small adjustments like sitting at eye level, minimizing interruptions, and allowing time for silence signal that your patient’s concerns are heard and valued. What helps: A calm presence, genuine eye contact, and a few extra minutes of uninterrupted time go a long way in lowering anxiety and building trust. 2. Lead with Empathy The emotional weight of a cancer diagnosis is profound. Acknowledging this—before diving into treatment protocols—helps humanize the experience. Even brief moments of empathy (“I know this is a lot to take in”) create space for trust and mutual respect. What helps: Listening without interrupting,

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