Susanna R. Myers, ARNP

Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner
Fred Hutch
Teaching Associate
University of Washington School of Medicine
“I am consistently inspired by the incredible resilience, kindness and strength of the patients I encounter.  ”
— Susanna
Why do you feel passionate about blending integrative medicine with oncology?

I believe in the importance of a holistic approach to health, especially when facing a serious diagnosis. This means working in collaboration with your primary oncology team to treat and supporting you as a whole person, both body and mind, with a goal of improving quality of life and managing symptoms associated with cancer and cancer treatment.

Integrative medicine Combines conventional (standard) medical treatment with complementary and alternative (CAM) therapies that have been shown to be safe and to work. CAM therapies treat the mind, body and spirit. Symptom A physical or mental problem that a person experiences that may indicate a disease or condition. Symptoms cannot be seen and do not show up on medical tests. A physical or mental problem that a person experiences that may indicate a disease or condition. Symptoms cannot be seen and do not show up on medical tests. Some examples of symptoms are headache, fatigue, nausea and pain.
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How do you help patients?

I provide a general integrative medicine consultation focused on the safe and appropriate use of integrative therapies and lifestyle modifications during and after cancer treatment. I have a specific focus on the use of well-researched, evidence-based mind-body medicine to improve pain and stress. Therapies include mindfulness-based stress reduction, relaxation breath work, guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation and mindful self-compassion. I also provide lifestyle counseling for symptoms such as fatigue, sleep, nutrition, physical activity and weight management. I have over 10 years of experience managing symptoms while working as a nurse practitioner in Fred Hutch’s Gastrointestinal Oncology Clinic.

Gastrointestinal Refers to the stomach and intestines. Also called GI. Integrative medicine Combines conventional (standard) medical treatment with complementary and alternative (CAM) therapies that have been shown to be safe and to work. CAM therapies treat the mind, body and spirit. Nurse practitioner A registered nurse who has additional education and training in how to diagnose and treat disease. In cancer care, a nurse practitioner may manage the primary care of patients and their families. A registered nurse who has additional education and training in how to diagnose and treat disease. Nurse practitioners are licensed at the state level and certified by national nursing organizations. In cancer care, a nurse practitioner may manage the primary care of patients and their families, based on a practice agreement with a physician. Symptom A physical or mental problem that a person experiences that may indicate a disease or condition. Symptoms cannot be seen and do not show up on medical tests. A physical or mental problem that a person experiences that may indicate a disease or condition. Symptoms cannot be seen and do not show up on medical tests. Some examples of symptoms are headache, fatigue, nausea and pain.

Provider background

Integrative medicine

I am a registered nurse practitioner and graduated with a Masters in Nursing from Columbia University. I also have a background as a massage therapist and was in the inaugural cohort of the Integrative Oncology Scholars program at the University of Michigan.

I have worked in oncology for over 12 years and am a member of the Society for Integrative Oncology. I am passionate about using an integrative and evidence-based approach to health and well-being and focuses on collaborating with patients, families and medical providers to improve cancer treatment tolerance and quality of life.

Nurse practitioner A registered nurse who has additional education and training in how to diagnose and treat disease. In cancer care, a nurse practitioner may manage the primary care of patients and their families. A registered nurse who has additional education and training in how to diagnose and treat disease. Nurse practitioners are licensed at the state level and certified by national nursing organizations. In cancer care, a nurse practitioner may manage the primary care of patients and their families, based on a practice agreement with a physician.
Education, experience and certifications
Undergraduate Degree
Haverford College
Medical Degree
Columbia University School of Nursing
Board Certification
Nurse Practitioner, 2010, American Nurses Credentialing Center
Languages
English

Research

Clinical trials

We make promising new treatments available to you through studies called clinical trials led by Fred Hutch doctors. Many of these trials at Fred Hutch have led to FDA-approved treatments and have improved standards of care globally. Together, you and your doctor can decide if a study is right for you.

Your care team

At Fred Hutch, you receive care from a team of providers with extensive experience in your disease. Your team includes doctors, a patient care coordinator, a registered nurse, an advanced practice provider and others, based on your needs. You also have access to experts like nutritionists, social workers, acupuncturists, psychiatrists and more who specialize in supporting people with cancer or blood disorders.
Heather  Greenlee, ND, PhD
Heather Greenlee, ND, PhD
Physician
Heidi  Stecher, MN, RN, OCN
Heidi Stecher, MN, RN, OCN
Registered nurse (RN)
Registered nurse (RN)
Your nurse manages your care alongside your doctor and assists with care procedures and treatments.
Patient care coordinator
Patient care coordinator
Your patient care coordinator works closely with you and your doctor and serves as your scheduler.

Insurance

Fred Hutch accepts most national private health insurance plans as well as Medicare. We also accept Medicaid for people from Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho. We are working to ensure that everyone, no matter what their financial situation, has access to the care they need.

For providers