The oncology clinical nurse specialist is a master's prepared nurse who has received extensive education in regards to the needs of cancer patients. The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) can help patients who are trying to deal with their diagnosis and/or treatment regimen. Symptom management, maintaining health and wellness during treatment and coping with information about cancer and its treatment are all areas of expertise that the clinical nurse specialist can share with patients and families. The Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist works closely with the entire health care team to ensure that your plan of care is comprehensive, identifies your needs and concerns and is clear and manageable for the patient and family. A cancer diagnosis is never easy to accept. The Clinical Nurse Specialist can help the patient and family understand and cope with a cancer diagnosis. If you were diagnosed or are being treated at Hartford Hospital for cancer and want to speak with a Clinical Nurse Specialist, please call the Helen & Harry Gray Cancer Center at (860) 545-3790.