Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an Integrative Oncology Nurse Specialist?
An Integrative Oncology Nurse is a registered nurse with advanced expertise in cancer care who integrates evidence-based lifestyle interventions and safe complementary therapies alongside conventional treatment. Their role is to support patients holistically — addressing physical, emotional, and practical needs before, during, and after cancer therapy. By combining specialist oncology knowledge with approaches such as medical acupuncture, exercise, nutrition, and mind–body strategies, Integrative Oncology Nurses help reduce side effects, build resilience, and enhance quality of life throughout the cancer journey.

2. How is your service different from what the hospital provides?
While hospital oncology teams focus on diagnosis and treatment, Holo Health services aim to complement their work by offering personalised, whole-person support. We help you manage physical, emotional, and lifestyle challenges—supporting your wellbeing, coping strategies, and overall quality of life throughout your cancer journey.

Please note:

• We do not offer medical treatments, diagnostic services, or hands-on nursing procedures such as infusions, injections, or wound care.

• We are not able to respond to urgent health concerns or emergencies. In such cases, you must contact your oncology team, GP, NHS 111, 999 or other emergency services.

• Support is provided through scheduled sessions only. We do not offer on-call or out-of-hours care.

3. Who can benefit from your services?
We support individuals at every stage of the cancer journey — from those newly diagnosed, in active treatment, in recovery, remission, or living with advanced disease. We also welcome anyone interested in cancer prevention, as well as carers looking for guidance or emotional support.

4. In a nutshell, what services do you offer?

• Personalised integrative cancer support

• Ad-hoc consultations (to clarify treatment plans, explore options, etc.)

• Medical acupuncture in central London (The Light Centre, Marylebone)

5. Why is the programme 12 weeks long?
The 12-week structure is grounded in scientific evidence showing that this is the minimum timeframe required to create meaningful, lasting changes in health behaviours, physical function, and psychological wellbeing. Research in oncology and behavioural science consistently demonstrates that three months is an effective period to build new routines, see measurable improvements, and integrate supportive therapies sustainably.

We also offer one-off consultations for specific cases where an ad-hoc approach is appropriate.

6. Do I need a referral from my oncologist?
We work with oncologists via direct referral, but you can also self-refer or be referred by a relative or carer. Consent from the patient is always required.

We will ask for your medical team’s details, clinic letters, and relevant records to understand your case. With your consent, we liaise with your team to ensure coordinated care.

7. Is this service only for people currently in treatment?
Not at all. We work with people before, during, and after treatment — including those in long-term recovery or palliative stages. Support is always tailored to your needs and goals.

8. Do you treat the cancer itself?
No. We do not replace medical or nursing oncology care. Our role is to complement conventional treatments by supporting your body and mind, helping reduce treatment-related symptoms, and improving overall wellbeing with evidence-supported lifestyle interventions and complementary therapies.

9. Can you visit me at home?
Yes, in special situations we can offer home visits across London and within the M25 area. Please enquire about availability and fees.

10. Do you offer virtual appointments?
Yes. Consultations can be both virtual and in-person for flexibility and convenience.

11. Do you provide nursing treatments such as injections, infusions, or medication administration?
No. We do not offer clinical nursing procedures such as IV infusions, injections, wound care, or palliative care medication delivery. Our role is to provide specialist guidance, education, and integrative support to help you manage symptoms, understand your treatment, and enhance your wellbeing alongside your medical team.

12. Why should I trust you?
We are led by Maria Vega, a Senior Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist with over a decade of experience supporting individuals and families through every stage of the cancer journey. Maria has worked extensively across both NHS and private sectors and holds specialist training in several integrative and supportive care approaches.

Maria is:

• Regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and adheres to its Code of Conduct

• A member of RCN, BMAS, SIO, UKONS, and the College of Medicine

• Trained in Medical Acupuncture (oncology and palliative care focus) and TCM Auricular Acupuncture

• Certified as a Cancer Exercise Specialist

• Fully insured and committed to ethical, evidence-based care

You can feel confident knowing your care is delivered with clinical integrity, compassion, and accountability.

13. Are you CQC registered?
No. We are not required to be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC regulates providers offering medical procedures such as personal care, treatment of disease, surgical procedures, diagnostic or screening services, or nursing care as a standalone service. Our services—education, guidance, lifestyle strategies, and medical acupuncture—are legally exempt from CQC regulation.

14. Do you work alone, or can you refer me to other specialists if needed?
We believe in joined-up care and work alongside your medical team to ensure your care is safe and aligned with your goals. We also collaborate with trusted specialists including:

• Oncology physiotherapists

• Cancer-specialist dietitians and nutritionists

• Clinical psychologists

• Palliative care consultants

• Oncologists and surgeons

If needed, we will suggest referrals to qualified professionals who share our evidence-based, holistic ethos.

15. What is your cancellation and payment policy?

• Payment is required in full at booking to secure sessions.

• Cancellations/reschedules require at least 48 hours’ notice for a full refund.

• No refunds/rescheduling within 48 hours of the appointment.

For the 12-week programme:

• Sessions can be used flexibly within 6 months of the start date.

• Refunds are not available for unused sessions, but rescheduling is possible with 48 hours’ notice.

For acupuncture packages:

• Ideally weekly for best results.

• Valid for up to 6 months from purchase.

• No refunds for unused sessions; rescheduling allowed with 48 hours’ notice.

16. How can I start working with you?
Book a complimentary initial call. This allows us to discuss your case, answer your questions, and decide if our approach is right for you.

17. Will this approach work for me?
Every person’s cancer journey is unique. While many people benefit from our strategies, we cannot guarantee specific outcomes. Your progress depends on factors such as cancer type, stage, symptom severity, and personal circumstances.

We aim to provide evidence-informed support to help you feel as well as possible — physically, emotionally, and mentally — while always offering honest support and realistic hope.

18. Are your services covered by private medical insurance?
At present, our services are not usually covered. Some insurers may reimburse part of the cost for medical acupuncture. Please check with your provider.

19. Do you prescribe medications or alter my treatment plan?
No. We do not prescribe, adjust, or interfere with oncology treatments or medication. Our role is supportive and complementary only.

20. Is medical acupuncture safe during cancer treatment?
Yes. When delivered by a qualified oncology-trained healthcare professional, acupuncture is considered safe and is recommended in international guidelines (ASCO, SIO, NICE) for certain symptoms. We always review your history and liaise with your team (with consent) to ensure safety.

21. How confidential is my information?
All personal and medical information is handled in line with GDPR regulations and our Privacy Policy. We never share your data without consent, except where legally required.

22. What if I am too unwell to attend a session?
We understand cancer treatment can be unpredictable. If you are unwell, please let us know as soon as possible. We will do our best to reschedule within the programme’s timeframe.

23. Can my family or carer join the sessions?
Yes, if you wish. We often encourage carers or relatives to join when discussing treatment, lifestyle changes, or emotional support.

24. Do you offer corporate or group programmes?
Yes. We also provide workshops and group programmes for organisations, charities, and wellness events. Please enquire for details.