 September 27, 2002
Approved cancer programs are equipped and staffed to provide the best in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Recognizing that cancer is a complex group of diseases, the program promotes consultation among surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists and other cancer specialists. Also important in achieving approval are having nursing protocols in place as well as an array of supportive services such as home health care, social services, pastoral care, pain management teams, dietary experts, educational opportunities, support groups, and access to screenings. This multidisciplinary cooperation results in improved cancer care. "Not everyone can put this badge on their program," said Deborah Aaron, MD, surgeon and Chairperson of the KGH Cancer Committee. "This approval states that we provide state of the art care at KGH, in which our patients can have full confidence." Only one other program in Alaska, located in Fairbanks, carries this Approved Cancer Program status. She stated that though there are still a few cancers not treatable here, so much cancer care can now be completed locally in comparison to in years past. Aaron credits much of the KGH re-accreditation to the acquisition of a stereotactic breast biopsy system. This state of the art equipment provides huge convenience and decreases anxiety for women whose breast lumps--sometimes microscopic--are discovered through mammography. 80% of these lumps are non-cancerous. Rather than traveling to Seattle for diagnosis or undergoing much more invasive open biopsy surgery here, they are able to undergo needle biopsy with this new computerized mammography unit where a needle is guided via images to a microscopic biopsy location. Stereotactic breast biopsy is now considered the gold standard for care, and the $250,000 equipment-unaffordable by most small hospitals who would never be able to recoup the costs-was funded by Ketchikan Gateway Borough through a grant from its Lands Trust Fund. Loulie Malloy, MD, KGH Radiologist who has performed these biopsies elsewhere, will receive additional training on this particular piece of equipment. An integral part of a cancer program is the tumor registry. All patients who are diagnosed or treated for cancer are listed in the registry so that KGH can maintain contact with them and make sure that they receive continuing care and assistance. Information collected through the registry allows KGH to participate in national studies that are designed to improve patient care. These studies focus on diagnostic patterns, surgery, other treatment and patient outcome. In turn, KGH has access to the national database for comparisons with our treatment methods and outcomes. This comparative assessment provides opportunities for continuous improvement in our quality of patient care. The KGH Cancer Program, Affiliate Status, was first approved in 1999--the result of years of dedicated effort by KGH surgeon Phil Newman, MD, and a host of others in all areas of cancer care.
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