LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — CHI Saint Joseph Health – Cancer Care Centers in Lexington and Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center have launched a formal affiliation to expand access to highly specialized cancer treatments, clinical expertise and research studies for patients in central Kentucky.
“Our cancer care centers have a long history of providing high quality care for patients and we are pleased to enhance that care even further,” said Bruce Tassin, CEO, CHI Saint Joseph Health, and president, Saint Joseph Hospital. “This affiliation will give patients in central Kentucky access to physicians at Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center, which is ranked in the top 10 hospitals for cancer care nationally by US News & World Report.”
Among the benefits are a streamlined referral process and consultation on treatment options with Cleveland Clinic physicians.
Oncologists with CHI Saint Joseph Health will present cases to the Cleveland Clinic tumor board, which will provide a consensus opinion to the Lexington physicians to incorporate into the treatment plan.
“Our affiliation with CHI Saint Joseph Health will streamline access to second opinions for patients in central Kentucky,” said Brian Bolwell, MD, chairman of Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center. “We look forward to collaborating with CHI Saint Joseph Health oncologists to expand the number of patients we can help with advanced treatments and therapies.”
For cancer patients, there a variety of support services, including a social worker at both Lexington locations who are involved with the patient throughout their cancer journey and support groups that meet regularly. The centers will soon add referral coordinators devoted to oncology services. These coordinators at the cancer center can walk patients through referrals and assist with scheduling to make it easier to access vital patient care.
HI Saint Joseph Health operates two easily accessible cancer care centers in Lexington on Bob-O-Link Drive and Blazer Parkway.
