Tennessee Oncology's Impact on Cancer Care Transformation
Tennessee Oncology stands out as a leading independent oncology practice, catering to a substantial number of cancer patients in its area. This organization is well-regarded for its focus on patient-centered care and tailored medical strategies. Recently, it was featured in an innovative digital series called Rewriting Cancer, which delves into unique stories and viewpoints related to the cancer experience.
What is 'Rewriting Cancer'?
Rewriting Cancer is aimed at giving individuals affected by cancer a voice to share their stories, with the goal of changing how the disease is understood and treated. This creative series highlights tales of hope and resilience, illustrating how patients and healthcare professionals are reshaping conventional narratives around cancer care.
Insights from Experts at Tennessee Oncology
Dr. Sandhya Mudumbi, Medical Director of Supportive Care at Tennessee Oncology, plays a key role in this series. She tackles a common issue cancer patients face: the stressful necessity of traveling to large medical facilities. Dr. Mudumbi emphasizes that by providing more services in local areas, they can alleviate the strain on patients who would otherwise have to leave their communities.
Connecting Remotely for Care
In the segment titled <Changing the Experience>, Dr. Mudumbi and her patient, Aimee Northfield, talk about the significant support that comes from continuity of care through remote communication. They stress that maintaining professional relationships can greatly enhance the healing journey, particularly for patients dealing with the anxiety and stress that treatment can bring.
Innovations in Community-Focused Treatment
Dr. Mudumbi is also leading a research project aimed at improving access to essential supportive care for breast and prostate cancer patients via telehealth services. This initiative targets individuals in seven rural counties, ensuring they can get the treatment and support they need without the burden of long journeys.
Progressing Cancer Treatment with CAR T-Cell Therapy
Dr. Natalie Dickson, President and CEO of Tennessee Oncology, introduces another promising advancement in cancer care: CAR T-cell therapy. While this groundbreaking treatment has mostly been available in hospitals, Tennessee Oncology is collaborating with Kite, a Gilead Company, to bring it to community settings, allowing patients to have effective treatment options closer to home.
Commitment to Patient-Centered Care
Tennessee Oncology is committed to offering comprehensive cancer care, no matter a patient's background or location. They focus on ensuring continuity in care, fostering strong relationships that build trust between patients and caregivers. This approach helps patients feel more confident in their treatment plans and progress.
About Tennessee Oncology
Established in 1976, Tennessee Oncology is recognized as one of the country's largest community-based cancer care practices. The organization is devoted to delivering high-quality cancer care while providing patients access to clinical research opportunities and treatment options in their local area. With a growing number of locations, their mission is evident: to prioritize accessibility and support for all patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of the 'Rewriting Cancer' series?
Its aim is to showcase personal stories from individuals affected by cancer, giving them a platform to share experiences and redefine cancer narratives.
2. Who is Dr. Sandhya Mudumbi?
Dr. Mudumbi is the Medical Director of Supportive Care at Tennessee Oncology, focusing on enhancing patient well-being and pioneering innovative care strategies.
3. How does Tennessee Oncology assist patients in rural areas?
They offer telehealth services and local treatment options to minimize the travel burden for patients living in underserved regions.
4. What is CAR T-cell therapy?
CAR T-cell therapy is an advanced treatment that alters a patient’s immune cells to specifically target and eliminate cancer cells, previously mostly accessible in hospitals.
5. How can patients receive care at Tennessee Oncology?
Patients can access treatment at multiple community clinics that provide extensive cancer care and supportive services.
