Our Team
Upon a positive diagnosis, patients will meet with out multidisciplinary team. After a patient meets with each doctor individually, the team meets together without the patient, allowing for all of our doctors to conduct a collective discussion about the treatment plan. From a patient’s perspective, meeting all of the team members in a single day helps speed up the time between diagnosis and treatment. Instead of having to meet each doctor in different locations, the patient can speak with all of them in a single day. Patients only meet with the multidisciplinary team after they have had a positive diagnosis of breast cancer.
Multidisciplinary Team Members:
Radiologist: Performs a complete film review for the patient (ultrasounds, mammograms, MRIs, etc.) to explore any further problems.
Surgeon: Provides either a primary or secondary surgical opinion to compare with initial treatment plan.
Plastic Surgeon: Goes over possible surgery and reconstruction options that will be dependent upon the treatment plan.
Medical Oncologist: Goes over general oncology options that might be needed post-operation.
Radiation Oncologist: Reviews radiation treatments and timeline.
Pathologist: Reviews and evaluates slides of each patient, double checking all other recommendations.
Oncology Nurse Navigator
At the Saint Agnes Breast Center, our Oncology Nurse Navigator assists each patient with not only their medical needs and questions, but also anything from logistics to dealing with the emotional hurdles of breast cancer. The coordinator is also a direct line of contact for each patient throughout treatment and during the recovery process.
Having the Oncology Nurse Navigator is like having a individual guide for a patient through the whole experience at Saint Agnes. The coordinator makes sure that patients are prepared for all phases of treatment. All procedures are explained by the coordinator, as well as what to expect after specific treatments.
The PCC is also an advocate for a patient and her family, helping a to identify the most important needs during this time. The coordinator also can help with patients’ emotional journey by providing them with support and open arms during this difficult time. The coordinator leads several support groups for recovering patients that are having trouble dealing with life after breast cancer. It is this type of personal attention and support that sets Saint Agnes apart. Together, the Oncology Nurse Navigator helps the patient manage the many issues that she will face during her cancer experience.
