Media Releases
Regional Cancer Network Offers Enhanced Access to Specialists
Milwaukee, Wis. (July 6, 2010) — In response to growing demand for the cancer expertise of Medical College of Wisconsin physicians, Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin have formed a regional cancer network to enhance access to these specialists in the community hospital setting. Over the past three years, cancer cases seen by Medical College physicians have increased nearly 35 percent.
Community Memorial Hospital in Menomonee Falls and St. Joseph’s Hospital in West Bend are the first hospitals to join the network, making additional cancer specialties available in both communities. At Community Memorial, where Medical College radiation oncologists have been practicing for nearly 20 years, the new Froedtert & The Medical College Cancer Network adds medical oncologists. Medical College specialists in urologic oncology, gynecologic oncology and neuro-oncology also will be available in Menomonee Falls through the network. In West Bend, Medical College specialists in radiation oncology, gynecologic oncology, urologic oncology and plastic and reconstructive surgery are available through the Cancer Network.
“Driven by the best practices of an academic medical center, our physicians constantly investigate new methods of treating cancer,” said J. Frank Wilson, MD, chair and the Bernard & Miriam Peck Family Professor in Radiation Oncology at the Medical College. Dr. Wilson oversees radiation oncology for the Cancer Network. “Research translates to better treatments and improved outcomes, and it means patients within the Cancer Network can rely on a consistently high standard of evidence-based cancer care that meets or exceeds national guidelines.”
Care through the Cancer Network is provided in the community hospital setting whenever possible, and Medical College cancer specialists collaborate with community physicians to develop treatment plans and ensure continuity of care. If patients need specialized treatment, connections to the Froedtert & The Medical College Clinical Cancer Center are coordinated through the network. Patients can return home for follow-up care at their community hospital. Medical records are accessible electronically, so providers at any Cancer Network site can retrieve patient information quickly.
In addition to specialty care in their own community, cancer patients will also have streamlined access to clinical trials, second opinions and an array of supportive services, including cancer genetic screening and counseling, cancer rehabilitation, nutrition counseling, social services and educational programs.
Patients can make an appointment at any Cancer Network site by calling a single phone number: 866-680-0505.
Froedtert & The Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Network delivers a coordinated system of high-quality cancer care anchored by the specialty expertise of Medical College of Wisconsin physicians and the extensive resources of an academic medical center.
Last Review Date: July 6, 2010 |