The best cancer care starts with better research .
The best cancer care starts with better research .
In the fight against cancer , treatment is only half the battle . Research is essential to developing therapies that improve both outcomes and quality of life . At AHN Saint Vincent Hospital , leading-edge clinical research and advanced , evidence-based treatments are taking cancer care to the next level . Here ’ s how :
Moonshot Cancer Biomarker Study for advancing blood tests and screenings Patients can volunteer to participate by having routine blood samples drawn throughout their cancer journey . If they had a tumor removed , a tissue sample would also be taken from that . In addition to developing more effective blood tests and screenings for certain cancers , the goal of this research aids in understanding how tumors change over time .
All for one collaborative peer review for the best possible patient outcomes Before the start of their care , patients have their treatment plans presented to and reviewed by the entire
AHN Radiation Oncology team , which includes every radiation oncologist , every disease site lead and all the dosimetrists and medical physicists responsible for ensuring the safety of radiation therapies .
Prostate seed implants for minimizing certain side effects Patients that meet certain criteria may be offered prostate seed implants ( PSI ) instead of or in combination with external beam radiation therapy .
This involves a radiation oncologist working with a urologist to surgically implant small radioactive seeds into the prostate . By delivering radiation more directly to the prostate , PSI can support better outcomes and lower the chance of recurrence .
Caring for the person , not just their cancer Cancer is a journey no one should take alone . Each cancer patient cared for at AHN Saint Vincent is guided through diagnosis , treatment , and beyond by a Nurse Navigator who is an expert in their specific cancer . The AHN Cancer Navigation Team focuses on the details , so patients can focus on recovery . Patients are also supported by on-site dieticians , financial counselors , and social workers .