lccc annual report 2017 v0 - eisenhowerhealth.org · annual report 2017 utilizing 2016 ... md, r ad...

CANCER PROGRAM

ANNUAL REPORT 2017

UT I L I Z ING 2016 CANCER DATA

Eisenhower Medical Center’s Cancer Program

Physicians and Specialists

(Blank inside front cover)

E ISENHOWER MED ICAL CENTER

Eisenhower Cancer Program Annual Report 2017Utilizing 2016 Data

Table of ContentsCancer Committee Members...................................................................................... 3

Cancer Center Welcomes New Chief Administrative Officer and Physicians ............ 4. . . . Katie Schnaser, FACHE ...................................................................................... 4. . . . Irene Dy, MD ...................................................................................................... 5. . . . David Hong, MD................................................................................................ 5

Monica Khanna, MD, Honored at 2017 Desert Spirit XXVIII ...................................... 6

Oncology Financial Navigator: A New and Needed Role ........................................ 6

Concierge Services — Meet Zackery Johnson............................................................ 8

Genetic Counseling Services at Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center .................... 9

Symptom Management Clinic .................................................................................... 10

Nursing Safety in the Oncology Clinic ........................................................................ 12

Pursuing Excellence in Cancer Care with the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative.............................................................. 13

Focus Cancer Site: Lung Cancer

Progress in Lung Cancer Treatment .................................................................. 14

Lung Cancer Studies .......................................................................................... 19

Promising Cancer Treatment through the NCI’s Precision Medicine Initiative® .................................................................................................... 21

2016 Primary Cancer Cases Index .............................................................................. 23

2016 Top Cancer Cases .............................................................................................. 24

Cancer Conference Report ........................................................................................ 25

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Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center Programs

Overview of the Center ...................................................................................... 26

Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center ...................................................... 28

Cancer Registry .................................................................................................. 31

Cancer Support Services .................................................................................... 32

Cancer Research.................................................................................................. 33

Eisenhower BIGHORN Radiation Oncology Center .......................................... 34

Eisenhower Infusion Centers .............................................................................. 35

The Miracles Don’t Stop Thanks to BIGHORN Behind a Miracle............................................................................ 40

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Eisenhower Medical Center Cancer Committee hashad a significant impact on the Eisenhower LucyCurci Cancer Center Program. A special thank you to

the Cancer Committee members for their dedicatedleadership and tireless efforts.

Cancer Committee Members

Justin Thomas, MDChair, Cancer Committee

Murthy Andavolu, MD, Medical Oncology

Jeffrey Block, MD, Gastroenterology

Constatin Dasanu, MD, PhD, Medical Oncology

Luke Dreisbach, MD, Medical Oncology

Mehran Elly, MD, Radiology

Varun Gupta, MD, Medical Oncology

Monica Khanna, MD, Radiation Oncology

Kiarash Noorizadeh, MD, Hospice and PalliativeMedicine

Steven Plaxe, MD, Gynecologic Oncology

Iliana Popescu, MD, Medical Oncology

Justin Reckard, MD, General Surgery

Roland Reinhart, MD, Pain Management

Patti Richardson, MD, Pathology

Peter Schulz, MD, General Surgery

Henry Tsai, MD, Medical Oncology

Davood Vafai, MD, Medical Oncology

Christal Curry, BSN, RN, OCNNurse Navigator

Bo Dunn, MSN, RN, OCNRadiation Oncology

Stephanie Farrell, MBA, BSN, RN, CCRC, CPHQDirector, Research Administration

Tracey Gomez, RN, NP, CEBC, RN

Kim Herling, BSNRN Quality Outcomes Analyst

Laura Latham, MSN, RNDirector, Clinical Operations

Danielle Meglio, COTA/C, MLD/CDTOccupational Therapy

Ann Mostofi, MSN, RNChief Nursing Officer and Vice President, Patient Care Services

Tijuana Parker, MSN, RN Director, Medical/Surgical 3 East/Oncology

Tammy Plante, MHA, CTR, CHESManager, Cancer Information Management

Sandra Rosen, RNPalliative Care

Alison Mayer Sachs, MSW, CSW, OSW-CDirector, Community Outreach and Cancer Support Services

Katie Schnaser, MHA, FACHEChief Administrative Officer

Heather VanMeeterenCoordinator, Community Outreach and Cancer Support Services

Belinda Zaparinuk, RT(M), BS, CBECManager, Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Centers

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Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center WelcomesNew Chief Administrative Officer and Physicians

Katie Schnaser, FACHEChief Administrative Officer

Ms. Schnaser joinedEisenhower Medical Center as Chief Administrative Officer forthe Eisenhower LucyCurci Cancer Center in December 2016. Prior to

her position as Chief Administrative Officer, Ms. Schnaser served as Director of Desert Regional Medical Center’s Amputation PreventionCenters. She opened two new centers in 2014,leading them to achieve Center of ExcellenceAwards and industry-leading quality measures.She has held multiple leadership roles at theCleveland Clinic, including managing one of thecountry’s highest volume international patient andlanguage services departments. She has alsoserved as administrator for the health system’snon-clinical support services division. Additionally,Ms. Schnaser has consulted for New York University

Hospital’s international patient services and language, cultural and disability departments.

Ms. Schnaser began her career in hospital operationsas a project manager focused on operationalizinga new patient tower at Renown Regional MedicalCenter — the largest hospital in northern Nevada. The multi-year project included a 270-bedpatient tower, new emergency department, 17operating rooms, outpatient diagnostic areas,and parking garage. She is a two-time graduateof the University of Southern California where shereceived her Bachelor’s in Business Administrationand Master’s in Health Administration. She is aFellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, and is an active Board Member of the Desert Cancer Foundation.

Inspired to embark on a career in health carewhen she was diagnosed at age 18 with thyroidcancer, Ms. Schnaser spent the next five years undergoing treatments in between college commitments. In her downtime she enjoys spendingtime with her husband and two young children.

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Irene Dy, MDHematology-Oncology

Irene Dy, MD, is BoardCertified in Internal Medicine and Hematology-Oncology. She is currentlyseeing patients at Eisenhower Desert CancerCare in Rancho Mirage atthe Eisenhower Lucy

Curci Cancer Center and at the EisenhowerGeorge and Julia Argyros Health Center in La Quinta.

After Dr. Dy received her medical degree at theUniversity of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines,she continued her medical training by completinga residency program in Internal Medicine atHarlem Hospital, New York. She then completedher fellowship in Hematology-Oncology at St. Lukes-Roosevelt Hospital in New York. After completing her residency, she served as a staffphysician at Crossroads Cancer Center in Illinois.As a child, Dr. Dy helped care for her grandmotherduring her treatment for cancer. This experience,along with several family members being physicians, influenced her decision to go to medical school. “I saw from different perspectivesthe influence and impact a physician can have ona patient and their family,” states Dr. Dy. “Goinginto medicine was a natural path for me.” Herolder brother is a hematology-oncology specialist,which played a large part in Dr. Dy pursuinghematology-oncology as a specialty. “I had thegood fortune to practice with my brother for several years after finishing my fellowship.”

In her interactions with patients, Dr. Dy sees herself as part of a team, along with the patient,support services and family members. “My role is

to educate and provide information regarding options for treatment and we work together tocreate a health plan that hopefully will bring healing to the patient,” states Dr. Dy.

David S. Hong, MDRadiation Oncology

David S. Hong, MD, is aboard-eligible radiationoncologist new to theEisenhower BIGHORN Radiation Oncology Center. He received hismedical degree from theDavid Geffen School of

Medicine at UCLA. Dr. Hong was awarded theprestigious Doris Duke Clinical Research Fellowshipto develop predictive biomarkers for patients withlung cancer under the guidance of mentor JohnMinna at the University of Texas SouthwesternMedical Center. He completed his transitionalyear internship at Harbor-UCLA Medical Centerand residency in radiation oncology at New York-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital.

Dr. Hong is experienced with advanced image-guided radiation therapy techniques includingmotion management, intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), volumetric modulatedarc therapy (VMAT), stereotactic radiosurgery(SRS), and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT).He is trained in both high dose rate (HDR) andlow dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy implants. Dr. Hong serves on the Practice Accreditation Committee of the American Society for RadiationOncology (ASTRO) and is involved in national efforts to improve health care quality and patientsafety.

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Monica Khanna, MD, Honored at 2017 DesertSpirit XXVIII

Early this year, Monica Khanna, MD, Medical Director,

Eisenhower BIGHORN Radiation Oncology Center,

was honored with the American Cancer Society’s

Spirit of the Mission Award for its 2017 Desert Spirit

XXVIII in recognition of her outstanding dedication

and contributions to the medical community.

Dr. Khanna has practiced radiation oncology for

more than 20 years. Among her many recognitions,

she has received the Soroptimist’s International

Award for A Doctor Making a Difference, and the

City of Palm Desert’s Athena Award.

In past years, Dr. Khanna has chaired the Eisenhower

Medical Center Cancer Committee, served on the

board of directors for the American Cancer Society®

and Desert Cancer Foundation. With her many years

of experience, responsibility toward presenting

complete and thorough information to her patients,

and her exceptional compassion toward those she

cares for, Dr. Khanna is a true example of the Spirit

of the Mission.

Oncology Financial Navigator: A New andNeeded Role

Alison Mayer Sachs, MSW, CSW, OSW-CCommunity Outreach and Cancer Support Services

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center is committedto cancer care for the whole patient. This meansthe Cancer Center recognizes its responsibility toprovide not only the best in clinical care, but alsoto acknowledge and address the financial barriersexperienced by oncology patients today.

Patients’ ability to meet financial obligations forcancer care are often severely impacted by highdeductibles, copays, and coinsurance, not tomention the crushing financial burden experiencedby the uninsured and underinsured. As a result,cancer patients face large out-of-pocket expenses,and the financial impact of a cancer diagnosis canbe devastating. On average, recently diagnosed,insured cancer patients face more than $16,000 in direct and indirect costs per year due to theirillness. Considering that in 2015, the averageAmerican household earned approximately$56,516 a year, the costs of cancer care can becrippling and have a long-lasting impact on

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patients and their families. Increasingly, the oncology community is referring to this phenomenonas the “financial toxicity” of cancer care.(The Advisory Board, 2016)

In 2017, the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Centerjoined the ranks of a few elite cancer centers inthe United States offering a specialized OncologyFinancial Navigator to help meet the financialneeds of our patients. The role of the financialnavigator is to take advantage of every opportunityto mitigate the financial toxicity of a cancer diagnosis.

Finding a person with the right skills to understandand interpret complex insurance plans while having the empathy and training required to dealwith those in a medical crisis can present an enormous stumbling block for many cancer centers. Fortunately, Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center’s new Oncology Financial Navigator, Jasmin Selimovic, is here to help.

With his years of experience as an outpatient registrar combined with his bachelor’s degree in psychology from BoiseState University, Jasminwas the perfect combinationof business and empathythe Cancer Center

needed. He assesses the financial needs of patients, establishes a positive supportive relationship, and works to develop a plan of careto address the financial barriers facing the patient.

Understanding the financial implications of medical intervention on both the patient and thehealth care provider, Jasmin provides patient

assistance in accessing federal, state and local entitlement programs; assists patients with applications for financial assistance with federal,state and local non-profits, and secures pharmaceutical patient assistance programs forchemotherapy treatments.

Jasmin works closely with other members of theCancer Support Services team to help find newprograms that could assist patients with their financial needs.

With the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center’snew Oncology Financial Navigator, patients cannow concentrate on what matters most ― theircancer care.

Testimonials from Cancer Center patients

“Jasmin showed not only integrity but

intelligence. I was treated with respect and

kindness and given the care and help I so

needed. I am beyond grateful, thank you.”

“Due to financial hardship in my fight against

cancer and the need for a costly medication,

Jasmin was instrumental in straightening out

incorrect information which had been provided

regarding my qualifications for financial

assistance. I was waiting for approval for 3

weeks before realizing something was wrong.

He took time to listen patiently to my needs and

took it upon himself to follow the course of

approval for many days.”


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Zackery Johnson startedworking at Eisenhower asa courier delivering mailand supplies from oneend of the hospital campus to the other. Itdidn’t take long for justabout everyone to realizethat Zack had a naturalwarmth and way about

him that immediately put people at ease, not tomention he had a knack for remembering peoples’ names and where he knew them from.All agreed, Zack needed to be front and centerusing that warmth of character and generosity ofspirit in working with patients and their lovedones, and what better place than the EisenhowerLucy Curci Cancer Center to do so?

It is often said that you only get one chance tomake a first impression, and at the EisenhowerLucy Curci Cancer Center, that first impression ismost often provided by Zack, the Center’s newPatient Services Concierge. As the first point ofcontact for those entering the Cancer Center,Zack’s warm and welcoming presence lets pa-tients know right away that the Cancer Center is a healing place like no other.

With his infectious smile and signature bow tie,Zack’s warm and welcoming demeanor providesreassurance and comfort to cancer patients andtheir loved ones. In this role, Zack exhibits greatsensitivity to the needs of seriously ill patients,fully understanding the importance of providing a genuine welcome combined with a confidencethat he is there to help.

He is extremely knowledgeable about EisenhowerMedical Center’s health system and a valuable resource in making sure patients get to wherethey need to be. It is his responsibility to orientpatients and visitors to the Cancer Center’s manyservices and departments, and to facilitate a positive experience — and he does so while exceeding expectations and providing exemplaryservice to those in his care. This is what makesZack so at home at the Cancer Center, where thehighest priority is providing high quality care andservices to patients and their loved ones.

Praise for Zackery

“I needed a lot of assistance for my first

appointment at the Eisenhower Imaging Center;

Zachery Johnson was at the front desk and his

assistance regarding several matters was

superb! His patience and willingness to go out

of his way to help could not have been better.

He was beautifully dressed, very polite, and

eager to help. As a former customer service

troubleshooter in San Francisco and as a head

salesman here in Palm Desert, I understood the

quality of his assistance.”

“Words cannot fully express my gratitude for

the care all of you at Lucy Curci Center gave to

my wife. She looked at each and every one of

you as friends and total professionals. I am sure

you are able to keep up on warm blankets.

Thank you.”

Concierge Services — Meet Zackery Johnson

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Lisa Madlensky, PhD, CGC

For the past year, geneticcounselors from theMoores Cancer Center atthe University of California,San Diego (UCSD) havebeen holding a monthlygenetics clinic at theEisenhower Lucy CurciCancer Center as a part of the collaborative

partnership between UCSD Health and EisenhowerMedical Center. Genetic counselors are healthcare providers with specialized training in geneticsand familial cancer risk assessment; training is atthe master’s degree level followed by board certification with the American Board of GeneticCounseling and licensing by the California Department of Public Health.

In general, most cancers are caused by a combination of aging, exposures, genetics andchance. About five percent of cancers are thoughtto arise from an inherited predisposition or genetic risk factor that greatly increases thechance of developing cancer. Some of the genesthat are more commonly known to be related tocancer risk are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes —mutations in these genes can increase breast,ovarian, pancreas and prostate cancer risk. Othersare the Lynch syndrome genes — mutations causean increased risk of colorectal, uterine, smallbowel, ovarian and stomach cancers. There aremany other genes that are associated with cancerrisk; mutations in these genes are generally quiterare and are often related to rare types of cancer.

People often wonder how genetic counselingand/or genetic testing could be useful. Knowingone’s inherited cancer risk can be invaluable:

First, individuals who carry mutations in a genethat increases cancer risk can often have theirmedical care tailored to their risk of cancer. Forexample, someone with an increased risk of colorectal cancer might be advised to have acolonoscopy every two years beginning at age 25 (compared to every 10 years beginning at age50 for the average-risk person). In some cases, surgery might be recommended if there is no effective way to find cancer at an early, treatablestage. For example, women with BRCA1 orBRCA2 mutations are advised to have theirovaries removed when they approach age 50but have completed childbearing.

Second, for individuals who are undergoing cancer treatment, there may be specificchemotherapies, immunotherapies or other treatments that are more effective in people whocarry an inherited cancer predisposition. Oncologists are increasingly using a combinationof tumor profiling (looking at genetic changes inthe tumor that are not present in the patient’s normal cells), and genetic testing for inheritedcancer risk (usually done with a saliva or bloodsample) to see if there are any targeted treatmentsor clinical trials that are based on the specific genetic changes seen in the patient.

Third, when a mutation in a cancer-related gene is found in a patient, other family members can consider genetic testing for themselves to determinewhich relatives inherited that same mutation (and

Genetic Counseling Services at the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center

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are at increased risk of cancer), and which relativesdid not inherit the mutation (and are at averagerisk). This is where genetic testing and counselingcan really make a difference in families. Geneticcounselors focus on opportunities for cancer prevention, risk-reduction and early detection.

The genetic counseling process includes a reviewof the family tree — including drawing a pedigreeor diagram of all family members. Patients areasked about the ages of all relatives, which relativeshave had a cancer diagnosis and details aboutthose cancers. It is strongly recommended to tryand gather as much information about cancers inthe family before the consultation so that the assessment is as accurate as possible. Geneticcounselors will want to know where the cancerstarted (or the primary site), how old the relativewas when they were first diagnosed, whether anyone in the family has already had any genetictesting (and what the results were), as well as documenting all the relatives on both sides of thefamily who have never had a cancer diagnosis.This process can sometimes be difficult, as it involves remembering difficult times when lovedones went through cancer treatment. It can alsobe challenging to obtain information that somerelatives may want to keep private, or simply maynot have been known to family members. Geneticcounselors understand these challenges and workwith each individual patient and family in a caringand sensitive manner.

Sometimes, genetic testing will be recommended.The most accurate way to perform genetic testingin a family is usually to identify the family memberwho is most likely to have a positive genetic test.In other words, if the genetic counselor is lookingfor a specific mutation that increases cancer risk(similar to looking for a single spelling mistakewithin a collection of books), the best chance to

find it is to test someone with a young diagnosisof cancer, a rare type of cancer, or someone whohas had more than one cancer diagnosis (multipleprimary cancers, not recurrences of a single cancer).Of course this may not always possible and genetic counselors work with the patient and familyto discuss other genetic testing options, and todetermine their potential benefits and limitations.

Genetic testing is increasingly complex with newgenes being discovered and new technologiesdeveloped. Additionally, the genetic counselor’sunderstanding of how the human genome worksshows that there is a vast network of genes thatinteract with each other to control how cells normally grow and divide. Mutations in certaingenes can impact normal cell growth, causing anormal cell to become a cancer cell. However, it is important to know that while the risk of cancercan be increased in people who carry an inherited mutation in a cancer-related gene, the risk is not100 percent (and in many cases, may only beslightly increased compared to the general population). There can even be different mutationsin the same gene that give different levels of risk.This complexity is one reason why discussing theins and outs of genetic testing with a geneticcounselor can be helpful. Genetic counselors stayup-to-date on the latest research in cancer genetics, and can help navigate patients and families through the complexity.

Who should consider genetic counseling?

� Individuals diagnosed with breast or colon cancer at age 45 or younger

� Individuals with ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal cancer

� Individuals with a familial clustering of cancers, particularly at a younger than typical age

(Continued on page 22)

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Kiarash Noorizadeh, MDHospice and Palliative Medicine

Karen Lichtenstein, RN

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center has addeda team of providers who are specially trained insymptom management to help cancer patientsmaintain the quality of their lives during cancertreatment. The new Symptom Management Clinicopened in April 2017.

Scheduled at the Eisenhower BIGHORN RadiationOncology Center, the Thursday afternoon clinicsare held at this location for the patient’s convenience. Patients are already overwhelmedwith appointments, transportation and treatmentsso they occasionally express resistance about seeing one more doctor — especially at a new location. To minimize inconvenience, patients cansee the Symptom Management Clinic team whenthey come to the Cancer Center for their treatmentsor office visits with their oncologist.

The entire appointment focuses on relief of physicaland emotional symptoms related to cancer. Thegoal is to make the patient’s life the best it can beat any time — before treatment, during treatmentor after treatment. This means that commonsymptoms like nausea, pain, fatigue, shortness ofbreath, constipation/diarrhea are treated and controlled. The Clinic also helps with emotionalsymptoms such as stress and depression. Listeningto each patient’s needs and concerns and creatingplans of care based on their choices is the goal ofeach visit. The team is there to help.

The team consists of Kiarash Noorizadeh, MD,Board Certified in Internal Medicine and in Palliative Medicine; Karen Lichtenstein, RN, and

social worker Andrea Ryan, MSW. This team hasfollowed more than 19 cancer patients to datefrom six different physician referrals in the Thursdayclinic. The clinic is also available on other daysand times as needed to manage the uniquesymptoms of the patient and the needs of thecaregivers.

The first contact from the team is made when thenurse schedules the appointment. The referringdoctor and the symptoms for the referral areshared with the patient. The patient is given theclinic’s telephone number (available 24 hours aday, seven days a week) and the team members’names. The patient is directed to call the team forhelp before the appointment with any questionsor needs.

Symptom Management Clinic

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. Nursing Safety in theOncology ClinicLaura Latham, MSN, RN

Daily exposure to hazardous drugs likechemotherapy poses serious health risks to oncology nurses.Chemotherapy aerosols,vapors and droplets mayescape syringes and tubing during connection/disconnection, possibly

landing on surfaces throughout the workplace.These chemicals are associated with severalhealth risks, including skin irritations, pregnancycomplications, birth defects and some forms ofcancer.

In an effort to protect nurses from exposure,Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center has introduced the use of a closed system transfer device that mechanically prevents the transfer ofhazardous drugs into the environment, prohibitingchemotherapy aerosols, vapors and droplets fromdripping or leaking as in previous systems.

Additionally, the Cancer Center has established anew personal protective equipment policy that requires nurses to wear a chemotherapy imperviousgown and double gloves while administeringchemotherapy in the infusion room. This policy is required by the Joint Commission and was implemented as part of the Center’s continued effort to protect both patients and nursing staff.

At the first appointment, the team surveys symptoms with a self-assessment tool that ismeasured on a scale from 0-10:

0 = no symptoms 5 = can tolerate10 = most severe

Treatment plans and follow up appointments arescheduled based on individual needs with thegoal of maximum comfort for the patient. Thenurse calls the patient after the visit to discusshow things are going and to assess how the careplan is working. The review any new medicationsand symptoms are assessed with the same self-assessment tool.

For many patients, managing their pain is the firststep. When pain is controlled, sleep, appetite, activities of daily living and family relationships, become easier to manage and more enjoyable.

For patients who have been told their cancerprognosis is terminal, the team can help with advance care planning. Additionally, the teamcan review the form for Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatments (POLST) and answerany questions, then document the patient’swishes in the electronic medical record.

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Kim Herling, BSN, RN, PHN, CTR

Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI®)is a program developedby the American Societyof Clinical Oncology(ASCO) as a tool to helpits members focus on thequality of care they deliver to cancer patients.

Piloted in 2002 and opened to ASCO members in 2006, the QOPI offers oncology practices a systematic method to assess their quality of carethat can be benchmarked against oncologypractices nationwide. Developed to foster a culture of self-examination and quality improvementin oncology practices, by 2010, the measures hadbeen expanded considerably thus initiating theQOPI certification program.

As a leader of quality cancer care in the region,the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center joinedthe program in fall 2016, joining more than 398 oncology practices across the United States andmore than 8,000 participating oncologists. Theprogram has also grown internationally, now including more than 30 international practicessubmitting data from countries around the globe.

The QOPI includes a comprehensive library ofmore than 180 quality measures that evaluatecancer treatment in modules such as breast, colorectal, lung, gynecological and prostate diseasesites, as well as symptom/toxicity management,palliative care and end-of-life cancer care. The majority of these measures are developed by

oncologists based on ASCO guidelines, ensuringmeasures are meaningful to oncology practices andconsistent with quality oncology care. A regularreview ensures QOPI measures continue to keepthe program aligned with oncology practiceguidelines and current care recommendations.

The QOPI utilizes retrospective analysis frommanual data abstraction and submission fromeach practice and is offered twice each year —spring and fall — over an eight-week submissionperiod. The program uses a secure, web-basedsystem to manage the standard submissionprocess and detailed chart selection methodologyto ensure consistent reporting across all practices.Once each submission period is complete, theQOPI creates specialized reports based on theaggregate data submitted from abstracted caseswith comparisons to the overall quality score ofthe national aggregate. Practices can utilize their individual quality scores to focus on performanceimprovements, promoting quality care in theircommunities.

Once programs participating in the QOPI submissions meet the minimum thresholds of the QOPI Certification Pathway, the program is eligible to submit an application for the QOPICertification Program. Each oncology practice isrequired to pass an overall quality aggregatescore of 75 percent of their submitted data on 25measures that include core measures, symptom/toxicity management, end of life care, and breast,lung and colorectal modules.

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center plans topursue certification to become the first oncologyprogram in the valley to attain this designation.

Pursuing Excellence in Cancer Care with the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative

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Davood Vafai, MDMedical Oncology

Lung cancer is a verycommon and deadly cancer both in the UnitedStates and worldwide.Lung cancer occurred in1.8 million patients acrossthe globe in 2012 andnearly 1.6 million patientsexpired.

In the United States, lungcancer occurred in 225,000 patients and caused160,000 deaths. Lung cancer kills more thanprostate, breast and colon cancer combined.

There are two main types of lung cancers: non-small cell versus small cell lung cancer. Smallcell lung cancer grows faster and responds tochemotherapy faster, but also becomes resistantto chemotherapy and recurs faster compared tonon-small cell lung cancer.

There has been a lack of progress in small celllung cancer treatment until recently. A new receptor called DLL3 (delta-like protein 3) hasbeen noted to be present on the surface of smallcell lung cancer patients. It is an inhibitory Notchligand receptor induced by key neuroendocrinetranscription factor ASCL1. It is present in morethan 80% of small cell lung cancer cells and smallcell lung cancer stem cells but not normal cells.

The following figure shows DLL3 staining in thesmall cell lung cancer patients.

A first-in-class single agent a delta-like protein 3(DLL3) targeted antibody conjugate Rovalpituzumab Tesrine (Rova-T) has been utilizedin a phase I trial in patients with recurrentmetastatic lung cancer. Even in a phase I study,this drug is showing very promising activity. Thestructure of the drug is as follows:


FOCUS CANCER SITE

Progress in Lung Cancer Treatment

DLL3 is on the Surface of SCLC Tumor Cells and does not Predict Response

to Standard Therapy

Delta-like Protein 3 (DLL3): A Novel Target in Neuroendocrine Tumors

Saunders et al., Sci Transl Med 2015

Saunders et al., Sci Transl Med 2015

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The antibody part of this molecule is attached toa cell cycle independent toxin, PBD dimer Toxin(D6.5).

The table below shows characteristic of enrolledpatients in this very important phase I trial.

Sixty-one patients were enrolled. Most patientshad a sensitive relapse (recurring after threemonths of first line of treatment). However, resistantand refractory patients were also enrolled, and88% of patients had more than 1% expression ofDLL3 and 67% of patients had more than 50%(very high) expression. For the most part, treatment was well tolerated with manageabletoxicity profile as shown in the table on the nextpage.


SCLC Patient Baseline Characteristics (N=74)

Rovalpituzumab Tesirine (Rova-T, SC16LD6.5)

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The highest related adverse events were thrombocytopenia, serosal effusions and skin reactions as shown in the above table. Overall response rate was 18% but it was 38% patients

with high expression of DLL3. The waterfall plot isshown below. The Kaplan Meyer survival curve isshown on the next page.

Adverse Event (AE) Profile in SCLC Patients (N=74)

Best Responses per Investigator by DLL3 Status

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It is to be noted that nearly 30% of these patientswho ordinarily have a very poor prognosis arealive in one year. This is a very important milestone in small cell lung cancer treatment.

The table on the following page shows comparisonof response to DLL3 vs current standard treatments.It is a sharp contrast.

BSCLC Kaplain-Meier Overall Survival

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As shown in the figure above the response rate ofpatients with Rova-T is 43% compared to 17% insensitive patients treated with Topotecan a standard second line treatment. A one year survival is 38% compared to 27%.

This agent is currently in a variety of clinical trials.One of the trials is using this antibody with

chemotherapy upfront. We are eagerly awaitingthe results of this study. Rova-T is showing a verypromising response rate and survival in recurrentsmall cell lung cancer patients, something that israrely seen in a phase I trial. The oncology community will welcome this compound as a newmodality of treatment in such a difficult conditionto treat.


Results Support Biomarker-Guided Phase 2 Studies

2Simos et al. Clin Lung Cancer 2014 1Horita et al. Sci Rep 2015

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Lung Cancer Review pN1/pN2 Patients with Systemic ChemotherapyStarted in Four Months

Justin Thomas, MDPulmonologyChair, Cancer Committee

IntroductionThe study regardingpN1/pN2 non-small celllung cancer patientsbegan in March of 2017.Eisenhower Medical Center’s CP3R resultswere reported at 83%which currently fallsbelow the standard

benchmark of 85%. Evaluation of EisenhowerMedical Center’s cases was based on the NationalComprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines for this measure and consequentialstudy.

MethodsAfter review of cases from the Eisenhower MedicalCenter database seven cases were found to qualifyfor the study. The patient’s median age was 77years (range, 61 to 85) and 57% were women.The American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC)stage was IIB in two patients, IIIA in three patients,IIIB in one patient and stage IV in one patient. Of the seven patients, one patient declinedchemotherapy treatment and in another case,chemotherapy was not recommended due to patient comorbidities.

Data results found 2015 study results of 80%,comparable to the Commission on Cancer, CP3R2014 results of 83.3%. However, further analysisfound 100% of pN1/pN2 non-small cell lung cancer patients were treated within four monthsof the chemotherapy start date at EisenhowerMedical Center exceeded the standard benchmarkof 85%. The one exception included a patientwith surgery and chemotherapy treated at a facility unrelated to Eisenhower Medical Centerthus disqualifying the patient data.

ConclusionIn conclusion, 100% of pN1/N2 non-small celllung cancer patients at Eisenhower Medical Center exceeded the benchmark.

Adjuvant Chemotherapy Received by Patients with AJCC Stage II or IIIANon-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) for 2015

IntroductionA study regarding the use of adjuvant chemotherapy received by patients with AJCCstage II or IIIA NSCLC was conducted in March2017 based on Eisenhower’s Fall 2016 QOPI results. Evaluation of Eisenhower Medical Center’s cases was based on the ASCO QOPInon-small cell lung cancer measure and consequential study.

MethodsReview of cases from the Eisenhower MedicalCenter Cancer Registry database found 27 casesthat qualified for the study. Case information wascollected from Eisenhower’s medical records system and evaluated.


Lung Cancer Studies

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Results

After chart and abstract review it was determinedthat for resected non-small cell lung cancer stageII or stage IIIA, 62.96% of the cases receivedchemotherapy. The ASCO QOPI academic aggregate is 81.33% and the QOPI aggregatemean is 59.25% while the QOPI certificationbenchmark is greater than 75%. The study excluded patients that had an unknown or

incomplete stage. Patients with an unknown or incomplete stage are thought to factor into theresults found during the study.

Conclusion

In conclusion, patients that had a complete stagefor resected non-small cell lung cancer, stage II orstage IIIA, met the benchmarks referred to for thisstudy.

21


Promising Cancer Treatment through the NationalCancer Institute’s Precision Medicine Initiative®

Stephanie Farrell, MBA, BSN, RN, CCRC, CPHQ

Chemotherapy is slowly

being replaced by a new

generation of drugs that

target genetic and

molecular alterations of

cancer cells. These

precision or targeted

cancer treatments hold

the promise of being

more effective than traditional chemotherapy with

potentially fewer side effects.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) Precision

Medicine Initiative® (PMI) provides doctors with

new tools to select cancer treatment in a more

individualized approach with patients. Precision

medicine uses the genetics of a person’s cancer

to help guide treatment options.

Eisenhower has the following NCI precision medicine

clinical trials available to cancer patients:

S1400 Lung MAP: Biomarker-Targeted Second-Line Therapy in Treating Patients with RecurrentStage IV Squamous Cell Lung Cancer (SCCC).

ALCHEMIST — a genetic screening trial for lungcancer with three associated treatment arms.Based on results of molecular testing patients,they may be eligible for the following treatment:

E4512: A Randomized Phase III Trial for Surgically Resected Early Stage Non-SmallCell Lung Cancer: Crizotinib versus Observation for Patients with Tumors

Harboring the Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase(ALK) Fusion Protein.

A081105: Randomized Study of Erlotinib versus Observation in Patients with Completely Resected Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Mutant Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC).

22


EA5142 (ANVIL): Adjuvant Nivolumab in Resected Lung Cancers, a Randomized PhaseIII Study of Nivolumab After Surgical Resectionand Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Non-SmallCell Lung Cancers.

EAY131 (NCI MATCH) and Associated Sub-studies NCI MATCH is a phase II trial studyinghow well treatment that is directed by genetictesting works in patients with solid tumors or lymphomas that have progressed following atleast one line of standard treatment or for whichno agreed upon treatment approach exists.

These precision medicine clinical trials assign

patients to therapy based on the genetic

alterations that are thought to be driving their

cancer. Every new cancer treatment available for

patients today is a direct result of clinical trials,

like the ones mentioned above. Personalized

medicine is an evolving and promising approach

to cancer treatment, with much to be gained

through continued research.

Includes excerpts from the “NCI and the Precision MedicineInitiative®, originally published by the National Cancer Institute.” Source: https://www.cancer.gov/research/areas/treatment/pmi-oncology

Genetic Counseling Services(Continued from page 10)

� Individuals who have had tumor profiling (e.g., looking at genetic features of the tumor tissue) which suggests that there might be an inherited genetic risk factor

� Individuals who previously had negative genetic testing, but who have a strong personal or family history of cancer — there are often newer, more updated tests available

For more information on genetic counseling services at the Eisenhower Lucy Curci CancerCenter, please call 760-674-3798.

2016 EMC Primary Cancer Cases Index

Site GroupTotalCases

Class Sex StageAnalytic NonA Other M F Other 0 I II III IV Unkn Applic Miss

ALL SITES 2110 1854 246 10 1102 1008 0 175 440 323 199 281 109 327 0

0 3 0 8 0 0Breast 279 259 20 0 3 276 0 42 112 63 18 16 8 0 0Prostate 254 188 66 0 254 0 0 0 29 103 17 36 3 0 0Lung/Bronchus – Non Small Cell 233 215 18 0 100 133 0 3 64 19 50 73 6 0 0

Bladder 142 133 8 1 120 22 0 84 25 17 4 3 0 0 0Colon 131 119 11 1 66 65 0 3 28 33 27 21 7 0 0Other Nervous System 115 110 4 1 24 91 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 110 0Hemeretic 106 93 13 0 50 56 0 0 0 0 1 1 3 88 0Kidney and Renal Pelvis 86 81 5 0 56 30 0 2 51 7 7 10 4 0 0Melanoma of Skin 85 78 7 0 62 23 0 12 31 20 5 9 1 0 0Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma 84 71 13 0 36 48 0 0 11 12 4 10 33 1 0Thyroid 68 66 2 0 22 46 0 0 22 8 8 10 18 0 0Pancreas 58 51 7 0 32 26 0 0 4 11 7 27 2 0 0Unknown or Ill-Defined 53 49 2 2 35 18 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 48 0Rectum and Rectosigmoid 49 44 5 0 34 15 0 2 11 5 14 10 2 0 0Anus, Anal Canal, Anorectum 40 38 2 0 35 5 0 26 3 6 1 0 2 0 0Myeloma 36 27 9 0 19 17 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 27 0Brain 36 31 4 1 18 18 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 31 0Corpus Uteri 25 18 6 1 0 25 0 0 10 1 3 1 3 0 0Ovary 23 18 4 1 0 23 0 0 0 1 5 8 3 1 0Liver 20 18 2 0 18 2 0 0 5 3 5 2 2 1 0Esophagus 17 13 4 0 15 2 0 0 4 1 2 4 2 0 0Soft Tissue 17 15 2 0 13 4 0 0 6 1 4 2 2 0 0Stomach 16 13 3 0 6 10 0 0 2 3 2 4 1 1 0Lung/Bronchus − Small Cell 15 14 1 0 7 8 0 0 2 1 2 9 0 0 0Tongue 14 8 6 0 11 3 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0Tonsil 9 7 2 0 7 2 0 0 0 0 2 5 0 0 0Bile Ducts 9 7 2 0 5 4 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 3 0Larynx 9 8 1 0 9 0 0 0 4 1 2 1 0 0 0Salivary Glands, Major 8 6 2 0 6 2 0 0 2 2 1 1 0 0 0Other Skin Cancer 8 8 0 0 5 3 0 0 2 0 1 0 4 1 0Other Digestive 7 7 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0Other Female Genital 6 5 1 0 0 6 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 0Cervix Uteri 5 3 2 0 0 5 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0Other Hematopoietic 4 0 3 1 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0Ureter 4 3 1 0 4 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0Hodgkin’s Disease 4 3 1 0 1 3 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0Floor of Mouth 3 2 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0Small Intestine 3 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0Pleura 3 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0Uterus Nos 3 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0Testis 3 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0Other Urinary 3 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 0Other Endocrine 3 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0Nasopharynx 2 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0Gallbladder 2 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0Peritoneum, Omentum, Mesent 2 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0Bone 2 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0Vulva 2 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0Gum 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0Oropharnyx 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0Hypopharynx 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0Nasal Cavity, Sinus, Ear 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

23

24


2016 Top Cancer CasesThere were 2,110 total cancer cases accessioned for Eisenhower

Medical Center in 2016. The 2016 Primary Site table outlines

each cancer site by class, sex and stage at diagnosis (previous

page). The pie chart below compares the incidence of each of

the top five cancer sites in 2016 at Eisenhower Medical Center.

At 13 percent of total cases, breast

cancer continues to be the most

frequent cancer site receiving care at

Eisenhower Medical Center. Next,

prostate, lung, colorectal and bladder

cancer complete the top five sites at

12, 11, 9 and 7 percent, respectively.

2016 Eisenhower Medical CenterTop Five Sites of Total Cases

Breast 13%279 Cases

Colorectal 9%180 Cases

Bladder 7%142 Cases

Lung 11%233 Cases

Prostate 12%254 Cases

Remaining Cases 48%1,022 Cases

25


Cancer Conference ReportMultidisciplinary cancer conferences are vital to the patientcare process. Also known as Tumor Boards, the conferencesbring together physicians and other health care professionalsto plan treatment on individual cases. Tumor Boards are anopportunity for the review of diagnostics and to recommendtreatments for optimal patient care. These conferences provide excellent educational benefits for attendees and valuable multidisciplinary consultative and treatment guidancebenefits for our patients. Cancer Conference case presentationsare open to staff physicians. Eisenhower Medical Center currently has a Main Tumor Board with case presentationsfrom all sites, as well as specialty tumor boards in breast, lung, gastrointestinal, brain, urological and gynecologicalcancer sites; and collaborates with UCSD for a multi-site, multidisciplinary approach.

Please call the Cancer Registry to schedule a Tumor Board

case at 760-773-1511.

Through the commitment of many physicians at EisenhowerMedical Center, 386 cancer cases were discussed at TumorBoards in 2016, including 90 percent prospective case presentations. The Tumor Boards were well attended by representatives from Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology,Surgery, Pathology, Radiology, Nursing, Social Services, Clinical Research, Cancer Registry and other medical professionals, exceeding the goals set by the Cancer Committee.

The Main Tumor Board is held on the first and third Mondaysat the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences dining room.Breast Tumor Board meetings are held bi-monthly at the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center. A Gastrointestinal TumorBoard, Urology/Gynecology Tumor Board and a ThoracicTumor Board are held monthly at the Eisenhower Lucy Curci

2016 Tumor Board Case PresentationsTopic Number Topic Number

Total number of cases......................... 386

Breast............. 205

Prostate............ 19

Lung................. 56

Colorectal ........ 18

Bladder-Kidney ... 7

Hematopoietic......7

GYN ................... 3

Head & Neck/CNS ............... 43

Gastrointestinal ..19

Unknown orIll-Defined ....... 2

Skin................... 10

Other Cases ....... 7

Cancer Center. A Brain Tumor Boardis held monthly with discussion of primary brain/CNS lesions and cancerswith brain metastasis. In 2016, 595physicians and 642 additional healthcare professionals attended EisenhowerMedical Center Tumor Boards.

The Annenberg Center for Health Sciences at Eisenhower hosts GrandRounds, Main Tumor Boards, andmany other educational programs. In 2016, there were five Grand Roundseducational presentations focusing ontreatment issues pertaining to cancerpatients.

For more information on upcoming

Grand Round topics, call

760-773-4500.

E ISENHOWER LUCY CURC I CANCER CENTER

The Clear Choice

for Your

Cancer Care

Overview of EisenhowerLucy Curci Cancer CenterUnrivaled Medical Care

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center is truly a remarkable cancertreatment facility, bringing together in one place a tremendous technological strength and a profoundly human environment.

We offer the cancer patient state-of-the-art medical care and comprehensive cancer services. Treatment is provided by caring and for the person as well as the cancer. Eisenhower Lucy Curci CancerCenter is indeed a healing place like no other®.

Simply the Best

There is a reason that more people choose the Eisenhower LucyCurci Cancer Center for all of their cancer care when facing the diagnosis of cancer.

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center is accredited by the AmericanCollege of Surgeons (ACS), one of only a few hospitals to attain thisaccreditation in Riverside County. The Commission on Cancer’s(CoC) accreditation program encourages hospitals, treatment centers and other facilities to improve their quality of patient carethrough various cancer-related programs. There are currently morethan 1,500 CoC-accredited cancer programs in the United Statesand Puerto Rico, representing 30 percent of all hospitals. CoC-accredited facilities diagnose and/or treat more than 70% of all

newly diagnosed cancer patients eachyear. For more information on the CoC,visit: https://www.facs.org/quality-programs/cancer.

The Cancer Center maintains the higheststandards of care and is accredited by the American College of Radiology, which accredits all facilities providing mammography on behalf of the UnitedStates government.

Eisenhower Medical Center is accredited by The Joint Commission, the leader in accreditation and certification of health careorganizations, and is a member of the prestigious Eastern Cooperative OncologyGroup, one of the largest clinical cancer research organizations in the United States.One of only nine participating organizationsin the state of California, Eisenhower currently has 40 active cancer treatmentclinical trials. Additionally, the Cancer Centeris designated a Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology and a Screening Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance.

The Infusion Centers are recipients of thePress Ganey Guardian of ExcellenceAward℠ in Patient Excellence – an awardgiven to organizations that have consistentlyachieved the 95th percentile for patient satisfaction.

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center is an extraordinary facility, nationally accredited and clinically distinguished. The healing environment, the uncompromising care, the personalized services, the team of professionalscoming together to care for you and your loved ones are critical componentsto top notch cancer treatment.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about services and treatment options at the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center, please call 760-674-3602, or visit our website at emc.org/cancer.


27

Comprehensive Cancer Services

Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center offersaccess to complete breast care, from screening mammography through diagnosis and follow-up. Thecompassionate healing environment at our two convenient Breast Center locations is the very hallmarkof clinical excellence, melding the best technologieswith passionate patient care — creating the most nurturing, welcoming and affirming surroundings.

Leo and Gloria Rosen Infusion Center staff understands the challenges, both physical and emotional, that affect every patient and their lovedones. That is why our team of registered nurses is experienced in infusion services, certified in chemotherapyadministration and available to provide information andanswer questions.

Eisenhower BIGHORN Radiation Oncology Centerstrives to meet patients’ individual needs and providesaccess to some of the most advanced equipment andnewest technology including the TrueBeam® RadiotherapySystem – a fully integrated platform for image-guidedradiotherapy (IGRT), intensity-modulated radiotherapy(IMRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS).

Eisenhower Imaging Center is on the leading edge ofthe most advanced technology and a model for imagingfacilities worldwide.

Cancer Support Services is designed to meet the specific needs and concerns of cancer patients andtheir family and friends every step of the way. We incorporate the latest information on cancer treatmentand research into an array of programs to helpstrengthen the body, physically, spiritually and emotionally. Our goal is to nurture hope and healingfor our patients and their families.

Eisenhower Schnitzer/NovackBreast Center

Woman-centered care in a warm, supportive environment.

The compassionate healing environment of our breast centers is the very hallmark of clinical excellence, melding the very best technologies with passionate patient care — creating the most nurturing, welcoming and affirming surroundings at our two convenient locations.

The Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center offers an approachto women’s health care that is comprehensive, convenient and caring. Here you have access to complete breast care, from screening mammography through diagnosis and follow-up. Diagnostic findings and best treatment options for women diagnosedwith breast cancer are discussed at collaborative biweekly multidisciplinary patient care conferences. A breast nurse specialist is available to act as guide throughout the entire diagnosis, treatmentand follow-up process for the benefit of our patients.

While our focus is breast health care, our goal is your peace of mind.

Getting your mammogram here offers distinct advantages.

Whether it is your annual check-up or an advanced procedure, having it at the Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center meansyou benefit from:

� Streamlined scheduling and reducedregistration wait time.

� Having your mammography breast exam performed at either of our beautifully appointed facilities.

� Board certified, fellowship-trained radiologists — physicians dedicated to breast health — who are the foundationof the Center and truly understand the concerns and needs of women.

� State-of-the-art digital three-dimensional tomosynthesis mammography equipment.

� Computer-aided detection (CAD) software that improves the accuracy of every mammogram.

� Certified mammography and breast ultrasound technologists.

� Additional diagnostic tools for follow-upexams, offered in cases of suspiciouslumps or lesions, or difficult-to-read mammograms.

The Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack BreastCenter offers convenient locations for annual breast exams in Rancho Mirage orLa Quinta.

To schedule an appointment for yourmammogram, please call 760-773-4338.Please request your appointment at the location that is most convenient for you.

E I SENHOWER LUCY CURC I CANCER CENTER

Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center is designated an AmericanCollege of Radiology Breast Imaging Center of Excellence and is the firstfacility in the Coachella Valley to earn this prestigious designation.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about services at ourEisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center locations in Rancho Mirageand La Quinta, please call 760-773-2038, or visit emc.org/breast.

Providing excellence

in all aspects of

breast imaging.

Comprehensive Program Services

The Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center is theonly place you need for your breast care.

Screening mammography:With the advances in thetreatment of breast cancer,the best chance for survivalremains early detection.And the key to early detection is regular mammograms. The Centeroffers state-of-the-art digitalthree-dimensional tomosynthesis

mammography equipment enhanced with computer-aided detection software, as well as education to encourage women to stay on top of their health. As aservice to our patients, we send reminders when it istime to make an appointment for a mammogram.

Accurate diagnosis and evaluation: Our fellowship-trained physicians and personal nurse navigators provide our patients with personalized, experienced,expert care, complemented by state-of-the-art technology. A variety of imaging methods are available toaccommodate every woman and her unique needs.

Breast MRI: Eisenhower offers a dedicated breast MRI,which may aid in showing spots the breast that may ormay not be cancer. A breast MRI is generally used tocomplement a mammogram for women with certain conditions, family history or other factors.

Our fellowship-trained physicians will recommend thebest imaging capability for your body and needs if suchfollow-up is required.

3D Whole Breast Automated Ultrasound System:The ACUSON S2000 ABVS for a 3D Total Breast Ultrasound Solution helps health care professionals efficiently and consistently identify lesions or otherareas of concern in fatty and dense breast tissue.

Benefits include:

� Generate a coronal view of the breast, whichdemonstrates global anatomy and symmetry as wellas exquisite architectural distortion.

� Improve ergonomics and decrease operator strainwith the Siemens exclusive hands-free locking mechanism of the ABVS transducer pod.

� Improve efficiency by decreasing exam time andconsistency with the ABVS.


29

30

Contrast Enhanced Spectral Mammography(CESM): Eisenhower wasthe first facility in thedesert to offer CESM, performed as an adjunct to inconclusive mammography and ultrasound, SenoBright®

contrast-enhanced spectral mammography highlightsareas of unusual blood flow patterns. The system automatically acquires the spectral data necessary to automatically create two images per view; a standard mammographic imageshowing tissue density and a contrast-enhanced imagein exactly the same position with the background signalsubtracted out.

Stereotactic breast biopsy is a safe, minimally invasive biopsy that obtains tiny samples from an identified abnormal breast mass for examination. Asample of suspicious breast tissue is precisely locatedwith computer-guided imaging and removed with aneedle. Eisenhower is the first breast center in SouthernCalifornia to offer the Giotto next generation stereotactictable, ensuring comfortable positioning for patients

while allowing 360-degree access of the breast. Thisoutpatient procedure requires no hospitalization or surgical incision and is performed using only local anesthesia.

Bone density screening(Dexa Scan): This comprehensive X-raymeasures the strength of your bones and provides important information for the treatment and preventionof osteoporosis. The test is safe, painless, quick and accurate.

Ultrasound Guided Core Biopsy is a safe,minimally invasive biopsy that obtains tiny samples from an identified abnormal breast mass for examination. A sample ofsuspicious breast tissue is precisely located with ultrasound guidance and removed with a vacuum assisted needle. This outpatient procedure requires nohospitalization or surgical incision and is performedusing only local anesthesia.


Cancer RegistryA state mandate in 1985 required all cancers diagnosed in California to be reported to the California Department of HealthServices in an effort to better understand cancer and to developstrategies for its prevention, treatment and management. Federallaw now requires state reporting, and an information collection system has been designed to obtain specific data on all cancer patients nationwide.

Operated by specially trained staff, Eisenhower Medical Center Cancer Registry utilizes a highly sophisticated computer system designed to document details of diagnosis, treatment and follow upof each cancer patient.

While strictly maintaining patient confidentiality, the Cancer Registryprovides statistical cancer information vital to saving lives and ultimately, defeating cancer.

How It Works

Cancer patients are automatically enrolled in the registry databaseafter receiving medical care at Eisenhower Medical Center. The Cancer Registry tracks a patient’s health status annually in the following ways:

� The patient’s re-admission to the hospital or outpatient visit is automatically updated in the registry.

� The patient’s physician will be contactedif the patient has not received any service from Eisenhower Medical Centerduring the previous year.

� If these update attempts are unsuccessful, a patient letter will be sent to the last known address as thesestatistics are vital to ensure accurate survival statistics.

How You Can Help

If you receive a letter, please completeand return it to the Cancer Registry in theenvelope provided. It is also important toinclude any address or physician changes.If you prefer, you can also call us directly at 760-773-1511.

How It Helps

The state uses this information to identifypreventable causes of cancer, observetreatment outcomes to help identify thebest therapies, and track survival rates. All diagnostic information, treatment dataand follow-up history submitted is strictlyconfidential and provided in statistical formonly. Periodic reports are also utilized bythe hospital in an effort to maintain thehighest treatment quality and provide insight on improving patient care.


Ever wonder how the American Cancer Society® compiles their statistics? Or,

how physicians predict the outcomes of certain cancers or know which treatments

were the most effective? This information is gathered from Cancer Registries.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about our Cancer Registry,

please call 760-773-1511.

Cancer screening and early cancer detection changes patient outcomes!

Evaluating,

Monitoring and

Improving

Patient Care

0

Cancer Support ServicesIt’s hard to be a cancer patient.

Whether you or someone you care about is a cancer patient, thejourney from diagnosis through treatment and recovery is filled withmany questions. At the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center, we offerguidance, support and understanding to help you every step of the way.

Our support services are designed to meet the specific needs and concerns of cancer patients and their family and friends. We incorporate the latest information on cancer treatment and research into an array of programs to help strengthen the body,physically and emotionally.

Our goal is to nurture hope and healing for our patients and their families.

Cancer Support Services

Every individual is unique and so is every cancer patient. That is whywe have a variety of programs and services available to help each ofour patients and their families.

� Social Work/Case Management

Sometimes, just talking with someone can be healing. Short-termindividual and family counseling with trained oncology socialworkers is available to help you develop the emotional and socialresources to deal with cancer.

� Nutrition Cancer and cancer treatments canchange eating habits, affecting appetites and nutritional needs. Treatment side effects can result in lossof appetite, and patients need to payspecial attention to nutrition in order to maintain their health and strength.Our Cancer Center provides a registered dietitian, available to meetwith patients to evaluate their needsand provide follow-up care through thephases of their cancer treatment and recovery. Lectures on diet and nutritionare offered throughout the year.

� Stress Management and Relaxation Program Classes on Mindfulness Meditation andweekly Healing Touch Massage are offered through our Stress Managementand Relaxation Program. The programteaches new approaches to workingwith stress, pain, chronic illness and thechallenges of living with a cancer diagnosis. The goal of the program is tohelp restore a sense of balance, hopeand well-being for cancer patients andtheir caregivers.

� Support Groups According to the National Cancer Institute: Often, support groups canhelp people affected by cancer feel lessalone and can improve their ability to deal with the uncertainties and challenges that cancer brings. Supportgroups give people who are affectedby similar diseases an opportunity tomeet and discuss ways to cope with illness.


We’re here for you.Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center is a resource for the entire community. You don’t have to be a patient to take advantage of all thatwe offer. If you or someone close to you has cancer, we’re here for you.

If you have questions or would like to learn more about any aspect ofCancer Support Services, please call 760-834-3798, or visitemc.org/cancersupport.

Learning about

cancer is an

important part

of treatment.

33


We offer various support groups where participantscan share personal experiences or just listen withother cancer patients and survivors. There is no feeto participate and new members are always welcome.

� Exercise for Cancer Patients

Patients undergoing treatment are looking for waysto combat fatigue, maintain muscle strength, and feelas though they maintain control over some part oftheir lives. Studies have shown patients may benefitfrom certain exercises, with many reporting improvedappetite, lessening of fatigue, improvement in sleeppatterns and overall improvement in quality of life.Partnering with Eisenhower Medical Center’s Rehabilitation Services, we offer a variety of on-siteexercise classes.

� Cancer Lecture Series

Learning about cancer is an important part of treatment. That is why we offer ongoing lectures andeducational presentations about treatment optionsand the latest in cancer prevention and detection.

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center also hosts teleconferences, community meetings, cancerscreenings and other workshops. In addition, theCenter is actively involved in the community andworks in cooperation with local, regional and nationalcancer organizations such as the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute and the Department of Health and Human Services.

� Genetic Counseling Science and research have shown that genes contribute to the development of certain types ofcancer. In collaboration with UCSD Moores CancerCenter, Family Genetics Program, the EisenhowerLucy Curci Cancer Center provides risk assessmentand genetic counseling with the only Certified Genetic Counselors (CGC) in the Coachella Valley.Our genetic counselors provide consultation to our physicians, educational programs for the communityas well as genetic testing and counseling.

� Community Partnerships

Working with our non-profit community partners, theEisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center is able to provide a safety net for cancer patients and families

through direct referrals for basic needs such as foodvouchers, assistance in covering monthly bills for utilities, rent or mortgage, and help with insurancepremiums, co-pays and costs of cancer treatments.

Through our long-standing relationship with theAmerican Cancer Society®, we provide on-site programs such as the bi-monthly Look Good, Feel Better and our weekly Wig Bank providing free wigs,hats and scarves to those undergoing treatment.

� Concierge Services

Ensuring that our patients, loved ones, visitors andvendors get to where they need to be with limitedhassle and on-time is the primary responsibility ofthe concierge. Our cancer center concierge is ex-tremely knowledgeable about Eisenhower MedicalCenter’s health system and a valuable resource inmaking sure patients get to where they need to be.The concierge helps orient visitors to the CancerCenter’s many services and departments, and facili-tates a positive experience through oversight of thebuilding’s lobbies, waiting areas, gardens andgrounds. Taking to heart Center’s tag line — a heal-ing place like no other — the concierge ensures ourphysical environment sets the tone for our commit-ment to your care. From the soothing sounds of ourlobby’s grand piano to the healing rainbow art thatgraces its walls, the concierge sees to it that all areworking in harmony to allow a sense of welcome andcaring.

� Financial Navigation

We provide a specialized Oncology Financial Navigator to help meet the financial needs of our patients. The financial navigator focuses on mitigatingthe financial toxicity of a cancer diagnosis, offers information about and helps connect our patients to the many local, state and national programs andnon-profit organizations that may help ease the financial burden so many experience as a result oftheir cancer diagnosis. With new cancer treatmentsoften attached to ever increasing costs of care, our financial navigator also connects patients to pharmaceutical programs that might help lower, orpossibly remove co-pays associated with certain cancer therapies.

Cancer ResearchFor the past several decades, clinical trials have been integral in theadvancement of cancer treatment. Before medical advances in canceror other disease states can be offered to the general public, they mustbe evaluated and approved through rigorously structured research studies, called clinical trials, involving human volunteers.

Participation in cancer research is an important commitment of theEisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center in its mission to provide thebest cancer treatment. In support of its mission, Eisenhower MedicalCenter has affiliated with UCSD Moores Cancer Center and StanfordCancer Center to offer National Cancer Institute-endorsed phase II andIII, multi-center, randomized and clinical trials. Treatment within a clinical trial is just one of the aspects of the advanced care that theCenter offers. Clinical trials available through Eisenhower Lucy CurciCancer Center are helping to find new and better treatments forthose diagnosed with cancer. Today’s cancer treatments are yester-day’s clinical trials. Every cancer treatment that is used today beganwith research in a clinical trial.

As a patient, there are potential benefits from participation in clinicaltrials, including:

� Health care provided by leading physicians in the field of cancer research

� Access to new drugs and interventions before they are widely available

� Close monitoring of our patient’s health care and any side effects

� More active patient participation role in own health care

� If the approach being studied is found to be helpful, patient may be among the first to benefit

� Opportunity to make a valuable contribution to cancer research

Types of Clinical Trials

Prevention trials test new approaches,such as medicines, vitamins, minerals, orother supplements that doctors believemay lower the risk of a certain type ofcancer or may prevent cancer from coming back or a new cancer in peoplewho have already had cancer.

Screening trials test the best way to findcancer, especially in its early stages.

Treatment trials test new treatments likea new cancer drug, new approaches tosurgery or radiation therapy, new combinations of treatments, or new methods such as gene therapy.

Diagnostic trials study new tests or procedures that may help identify, or diagnose, cancer more accurately. Diagnostic trials usually involve peoplewho have some signs or symptoms of cancer.

Quality of life, or supportive care, trialsexplore ways to improve comfort andquality of life for cancer patients.

Patient participation is key to the successof cancer research. Patients who participate


Today’s cancer treatments are yesterday’s clinical trials.

“Our ability to offer national clinical trials, endorsed by the National Cancer

Institute, ensures our patients receive health care as it should be by providing

world-class treatment right here on the Eisenhower Medical Center campus,” says

Stephanie Farrell, MBA, BSN, RN, CCRC, CPHQ, Director, Research Administration.

For a listing of current trials at Eisenhower, visit emc.org/clinicaltrials, or for

more information or to inquire about enrolling a patient, call 760-837-8034.

Patient participation

is key to the success

of cancer research.

35


in clinical trials play a critical role in the development ofadvancements in the treatment of cancer. “We are honored that our patients participate in research. Curingall cancer is the ultimate goal of clinical trials. Hopefully,each trial they participate in will get us one step closerto finding a cure for cancer,” states Luke Dreisbach,MD, Chairman, Clinical Cooperative Research WorkGroup, Eisenhower Medical Center.

Since 2006, the clinical research program at Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center has received commendations, the highest honor, during the tri-annual American College of Surgeons Cancer Center Survey. The clinical research program has beenrecognized for providing patients with informationabout cancer-related clinical trials and enrolling our patients in screening, prevention or treatment trials.Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center’s pursuits in clinical research ensure that our patients receive thefive-star treatment they have come to expect fromEisenhower Medical Center.

Clinical Trial Participation — A Best Practice in the Care of Cancer Patients

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)believes that the “best management of any cancer patient is in a clinical trial. Participation in clinical trialsis especially encouraged.” (www.nccn.org)

The American Society of Clinical Oncology honorspractices that are dedicated to developing new ways to slow, halt, cure and prevent cancer through clinical research. Today, there are nearly 12 million cancer survivors in the United States, mainly because of thework done in clinical trials. New clinical trials areopened throughout the year. Contact the research office for the most up-to-date availability. The CancerCenter currently has more than 40 active studies. Visitemc.org/clinicaltrials for more information.

Steps to Find a Clinical Trial

Step 1: Details to Gather About Your Cancer1. What kind of cancer do you have?

2. Where did the cancer first start?Many cancers spread to the bones, liver, or elsewhere. However, the type of cancer you have is determined by where it started. For example, breast cancer that spreads to the bone is still breast cancer.

3. What is the cancer’s cell type?This information will be in your pathology report.

4. If you have a solid tumor, what size is it? If you have a solid tumor, where is it located?

5. What is the stage of your cancer?

6. If the tumor has spread, list all locations.

7. Have you had cancer before that is different from the one you have now?

8. What is your current performance status score?This is an assessment by your doctor of how well you are able to perform ordinary tasks and carry out daily activities.

9. Have you been treated for your current cancer? If not, what treatment(s) have been recommended to you?

10. If you have been treated for your current cancer, please list the treatments you have received (for example: type of surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy or radiation therapy).

Step 2: Find Clinical Trials for Your Cancer

Contact the Cancer Center’s Research office at 760-837-8034 or [email protected]

Step 3: Take a Closer Look at the Trials that Interest You

Ask for a copy of the informed consent for the clinical trial.

Step 4: Ask Questions

Meet with the study team.Every cancer treatment used today is a direct

result of clinical trials and the people who took

part in them. That is why it is so important to

continue cancer research.

Eisenhower BIGHORN Radiation Oncology CenterUndergoing any type of radiation treatment can be frightening andconfusing. That’s why our caring staff takes time to explain what’s happening, answer questions and provide information every step of the way. We’re here to make a difficult situation not just bearable, but better.

Radiation Oncology Centers are located at the Eisenhower LucyCurci Cancer Center in Rancho Mirage and at the EisenhowerGeorge and Julia Argyros Health Center in La Quinta.

Understanding Radiation Oncology

Radiation has been used to treat cancer since the early 1900s. Therapeutic techniques have advanced continuously over the years.Treatments are now available that minimize exposure to surroundinghealthy tissue while maximizing radiation dose to the cancer.

Treatment Planning Starts with You

If your physician decides that radiation therapy is appropriate for you, the firststep is to develop a plan for your individual treatment. To ensure the highestlevel of patient safety and compassionatecare, your care team, including Board Certified Radiation Oncologists, oncologytrained/certified nurses, oncology certifiedsocial worker, radiation therapists,dosimetrist, physicist, registered dietitianand experienced front desk personnel,work collaboratively with your primaryphysician, surgeon and/or medical oncologist to ensure ease of referral and seamless care, and an individualized treatment plan.

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

This has been one of most significant innovations in radiation therapy. IMRTuses sophisticated computer technologyto create extremely precise and accuratetreatment plans with precision and accuracy. The variable beam intensity,which is the hallmark of the IMRT technique,allows the radiation beams to be shaped inways previously thought impossible. Dueto its advanced accuracy, radiation is oftendelivered at higher doses without increased


Two great locations to serve you.

When you or someone you love is facing cancer, it helps to know you have a

team of experienced, compassionate medical professionals with access to the

most advanced treatment options available.

If you have any questions about either the Eisenhower BIGHORN Radiation

Oncology Center on campus at the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center in

Rancho Mirage or at the Eisenhower George and Julia Argyros Health Center

in La Quinta, please call 760-674-3600, or visit emc.org/radiationoncology.

Aggressive

treatment,

compassionate

care.

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side effects. This allows us to treat tumors that, even afew years ago, would have been considered untreatabledue to their size or proximity to vital, healthy organs.

Stereotactic Radiation

A specialized type of external beam radiation therapycalled stereotactic radiation uses focused radiationbeams targeting a well-defined tumor, relying on detailed imaging studies, computerized three-dimensional treatment planning and precise treatmentset up to deliver a radiation dose with extreme accuracy.

There are two types of stereotactic radiation:

� Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) does not actually involve surgery. It is a non-invasive method of delivering a precise dose of intense radiation to a tumor located in the brain. SRS offers an important alternative for many brain tumors, benign and malignant, which have traditionally been treated with invasive surgical methods. Depending on the type of tumor, one or several radiation treatments may be involved. This treatment technique can reach virtually any area in the brain, including those not accessible by conventional surgery.

� Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) refers to stereotactic radiation treatments delivered within the body (e.g., lung). A customized plan allows physicians to administer high doses of radiation to the cancer with less treatments, typically one to five weeks rather than several weeks.

TrueBeam® Radiotherapy System

The TrueBeam System brings leading edge cancer careto Eisenhower Medical Center. Its platform is a fully-integrated system for image-guided radiotherapy(IGRT), intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) andstereotactic radiosurgery (SRS).

Designed to treat targeted areas with advanced speedand accuracy, TrueBeam rotates around the patient todeliver a prescribed radiation dose from virtually everyangle. The system’s multileaf collimater (MLC) shapesthe beam with 120 computer-controlled leaves or fingers that create apertures of different shapes andsizes. The leaves sculpt the beam to match the 3-Dshape of the tumor. The leaves can move and changeduring treatment to target the tumor while minimizingradiation dose to the surrounding healthy tissue.

TrueBeam treats cancer anywhere in the body where radiation is indicated for the patient including lung,breast, prostate, head and neck.

Aggressive Treatment, Compassionate Care

When you or someone you love is facing cancer, it helps to know you have a team of experienced, compassionate medical professionals with access to the most advanced treatment options available. This is what you’ll find at the Eisenhower BIGHORN Radiation Oncology Center.

The surroundings are designed for comfort and tranquility, including our private patient lounges withpanoramic windows overlooking the surroundingdesert spectacle. Intimate seating and a selection of complimentary refreshments are provided to help patients and their loved ones relax during appointments.Even the treatment rooms feature ceilings that resemblea desert night with a canopy of twinkling stars designedto engage patients during treatment sessions.

Beyond the state-of-the-art medical technology andwarm, healing environment is a team of experiencedand compassionate health care professionals, greeting individuals by name, getting to know them as morethan just a patient, making special efforts to breakthrough the “high tech” and provide our patients with“high touch” care, making this a healing place like no other.


Eisenhower Infusion CentersCombining Clinical Excellence with Compassionate Care

We understand the challenges, both physical and emotional, that

affect every patient and their loved ones. That is why our team of

registered nurses are experienced in infusion services, certified in

chemotherapy administration and available to provide information

and answer questions.

Patient and family education is an essential part of your care.

We encourage all of our patients to be informed and active partners

in their treatment and healing process. Whether it is special instructions

for taking care during and after treatments, or tips to help reduce

unpleasant side effects associated with some infusions, we help treat

the disease and care for the whole person — our patient.

Comprehensive Infusion Services to Help You Regain Your Health

Chemotherapy is the treatment of cancer with powerful medications to destroy cancer cells by stopping theirgrowth and reproduction. Often referredto as “anti-cancer” drugs, they are mostoften administered intravenously (IV) or byinjection or orally. Chemotherapy can beused alone, or in conjunction with radiationtherapy and/or surgery.

Biotherapy – treatment to stimulate or restore immune system abilities. Used invarious illnesses.

Blood transfusions – administration ofblood components such as red bloodcells and platelets when individuals havelow blood counts due to various illnesses.

Intravenous antibiotic treatment –to treat infections.

Subcutaneous injections – administrationof injectable drugs such as those used toboost production of red or white bloodcells, or in anticoagulant therapy.

Hydration therapy – infusion therapy totreat dehydration in patients undergoingchemotherapy or persons dehydrated dueto insufficient fluid intake.


When you have cancer or another diagnosis that calls for infusion treatment, you can rely on the Infusion Centers at the Eisenhower LucyCurci Cancer Center to support your care. With five locations — now openSaturday, Sunday and holidays — 365 days a year — to meet your needs,our team of experienced, caring medical professionals and facilitiesfocused on patient comfort and convenience — we’re here for you.

If you have questions about infusion therapy or services available, pleasecall 760-773-1500, or visit emc.org/infusion.

A Place Where

Your Needs

Come First

Our nurses’ stations are located in the middle of the Infusion Center,allowing our staff to provide the care and attention necessary whilereducing surrounding noise and distractions that may make itdifficult for patients to rest and relax.


Uncompromising Clinical Care in a Comfortable Setting

When you don’t feel well, the comfort of your home isespecially important. From the picture windows to thewelcoming smiles of our staff, our Center was designedwith you in mind — to make your treatment experienceas pleasant and comfortable as possible.

We’ve taken every detail into account to help you feelat home.

� Oversized reclining treatment chairs.

� Pillows and heated blankets.

� A variety of refreshments are available.

� Semi-private and private rooms available in most locations upon request and according to individual circumstances.

� Complimentary Wi-Fi

NEW Locations for Infusion Centers

There are now six locations in Rancho Mirage, YuccaValley, and our newest Infusion Center at the EisenhowerGeorge and Julia Argyros Health Center in La Quinta,thanks to a generous donation by BIGHORN Golf Club.

The unique environment within our Infusion Centers are complemented by the additional features of the

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center, such as a tranquil Auxiliary Healing Garden available for strolls inthe fresh air, sunlight or personal meditation. All ofthese details combined create a healing place like noother for our patients.

National Oncology Nursing Certification Makes a Difference

In both the inpatient and outpatient departments of the Eisenhower Medical Center Cancer Program, oncology nursing care is delivered by nurses with specialized knowledge and skills. Nurses complete additional education and training focused on cancercare. All nursing staff have completed the National Oncology Nursing Society standard chemotherapy andbiotherapy training for specialized competency in thehandling, administration, and management ofchemotherapy drugs and side effects.

Many of Eisenhower’s chemotherapy-trained nursing staffhave attained a specialized national certification as anOncology Certified Nurse (OCN), a distinctive certificationfor qualified and experienced registered nurses. Oncology Certified Nurses have demonstrated specialized knowledge in cancer care by meeting specific eligibility requirements and passing a rigorouscertification exam.

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BIGHORN Behind a Miracle (BAM) had another busyseason, contributing $750,000 to the Eisenhower LucyCurci Cancer Center and the Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center this year alone!

Last year’s major purchase by BIGHORN BAM was thelatest generation TrueBeam™ STx Linear Accelerator.Installed in August 2017, the TrueBeam system provides precision radiation treatment while minimizingdamage to healthy tissue so patients experience fewerside effects and have less down time. TrueBeam’sbreakthrough technology improves workflow and clinical processes, plus enables precise cancer caretreatments that take only minutes. EisenhowerBIGHORN Radiation Oncology Center treated its firstpatient with TrueBeam in October 2017.

With BIGHORN BAM’s gifts, the Eisenhower Schnitzer/Novack Breast Center was able to trade three oldermodel Supersonic Ultrasound machines toward the purchase of three new state-of-the art breast ultrasoundmachines, keeping the Breast Center on the cuttingedge of diagnostic technology.

Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center’s Support Servicescontinues offering genetic counseling with the help ofBIGHORN BAM. Genetic counseling helps patients understand and adapt to the medical, psychologicaland familial implications of genetic contributions to disease. (See article on page 9.)

The new BAM vans with two dedicated drivers hosted943 rides from October 2016 through the end of June2017. This year’s gift focused on operational costs for

the growing number of passengers served, includingmaintenance, insurance,staffing, fuel and other miscellaneous costs.

All of this would not have beenpossible without BIGHORNBAM. Our thanks to everyoneat BAM for their hard work andgenerosity!

The Miracles Don’t StopThanks to BIGHORN Behind a Miracle!

(From left to right) Selby Dunham, Founder, BIGHORN BAM; Steven Plaxe, MD, Medical Director, Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center; Katie Schnaser, Chief Administrative Officer, Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center; Laura Fritz, Senior VicePresident, Eisenhower Medical Center Foundation; Michael Landes, President, Eisenhower Medical Center Foundation and Monica Khanna, MD, Medical Director,Eisenhower BIGHORN Radiation Oncology Center.

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