Integrated Breast Center at St. John's
The Integrated Breast Center at St. John’s is a new patient-centered multidisciplinary paradigm for breast cancer care to our community. Our unique approach will allow a patient diagnosed with breast cancer to be seen at the center on the same day by a team of providers (i.e. breast surgeon, plastic surgeon, oncologist, oncology certified nutrition specialist, etc.). Each patient’s situation will be discussed at a multidisciplinary conference immediately after the patient is seen. The patient will leave that day with a comprehensive plan for next steps in their treatment. After the initial consult, the patient can begin working with St. John’s oncology nurse navigator to assist in making arrangements for their cancer care.
What Makes St. John’s Different?
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Convenience and Collaboration – All the physicians involved in our Integrated Breast Center are long-standing community physicians who have been working together in a multidisciplinary fashion for years. The program also allows patients the opportunity to be seen by all providers in one setting and to get a treatment plan on the same day they are seen.
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Oncology Nurse Navigator – St. John’s nurse navigator is a trained oncology nurse practitioner and plays a crucial role as a touch-point for the patient. The addition of a nurse navigator in treatment has proven to be beneficial for cancer patients.
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Jennifer Diamond Cancer Education Library – Our center has an onsite library with tools and educational materials about cancer for you and your caretakers.
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Accreditation – St. John’s is seeking accreditation by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). Accreditation means the center has met performance measures, and adhering to these NAPBC standards will help ensure that our patients continue to be treated with the latest standards in mind.
Multidisciplinary Breast Team
Our multidisciplinary team includes:
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Medical Oncologist: to provide disease management and treatment options
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General Surgeon: to provide surgical care for the treatment
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Plastic Surgeon: to provide reconstructive options and surgery if needed or desired
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Radiation Oncologist: to manage radiation therapy
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Oncology Nurse Navigator: to provide support, education and resources for all patients
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Oncology Certified Nutrition Specialist: to meet special nutritional needs and develop dietary meal plans
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Counselors: for patients and families in need of guidance and support
Oncology Nurse Navigator
The oncology nurse navigator plays a crucial role for patients throughout every stage of cancer treatment – from the initial diagnosis to the recovery period. The navigator will work with the patients to answer any questions they have about appointments, treatments and resources throughout the course of treatment. This trained oncology nurse practitioner has experience and knows what cancer patients can expect. From managing side effects of treatment, to scheduling a wig fitting, to calling and reminding patients of their appointments, the navigator is at the patient’s side. The addition of a nurse navigator can benefit the patient during what can be an overwhelming time.
Other Services Provided:
- Jennifer Diamond Cancer Education Library
- Group Meditation
- Support Groups
- Lymphedema Education
- Relaxation Therapy
- Yoga Classes for Cancer Patients and Caregivers
How to Get Referred to St. John’s Integrated Breast Center
Any newly diagnosed or newly diagnosed recurrent breast cancer patient may refer themselves to the Integrated Breast Center. Physician referrals are also welcomed. Please call (805) 988-7167.
