2016 annual report - caromont health...management and patient survivorship services. we focus on a...

I Cancer Center Annual Report

2016 Annual ReportBased on 2015 Data

Cancer Center Annual ReportII

Table of ContentsOverview 1Treatment 2Services 4Accreditations 7Key Accomplishments 8Clinical Trials 10Cancer Conferences 10Cancer Committee 11Registry Data and Quality Measures 13Survivor Story 17Partnerships 18Resource Directory 19

III Cancer Center Annual Report

WelcomeWe are pleased to share CaroMont Health’s 2016 Cancer Program Annual Report highlighting the exceptional cancer care provided to our patients and their families. At CaroMont Health, we strive for more than just the highest ratings, we hope to provide the best possible cancer care in our community.

Cancer can happen to anyone. Regardless of where patients are in their cancer journey, CaroMont Health is ready to assist in making the best decisions about their diagnosis and treatment. The CaroMont Cancer Center is fully accredited by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer as a Comprehensive Cancer Program. Our

Comprehensive Breast Center is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, and recently underwent a reaccreditation survey in October.

This report provides an overview of the comprehensive cancer prevention, genetic counseling and screening, early detection, education, treatment and follow-up, symptom management and survivorship services provided by our multidisciplinary team of compassionate experts. We are proud to highlight our accomplishments and strategic initiative implementations from the past year.

In the past year we have continued to grow. Gaston Palliative Services welcomed Dr. Rebecca Brown and Nora Paysour, FNP-C. CaroMont Health also welcomed Dr. Jay Hendler as the Medical Director for CaroMont Pulmonary Medicine. Since its inception in June, the practice has expanded to include an additional physician and nurse practitioner.

On behalf of our team of caring and compassionate healthcare professionals, it is with pleasure we present the 2016 Cancer Program Annual Report.

In Good Health!

Steven Yates, MDChairman, CaroMont Cancer Committee

Steven Yates, MD

1Cancer Center Annual Report1

OverviewMissionIt is our mission to improve the health of the people and communities we serve by providing high-quality, timely, compassionate oncology services that are nationally-recognized and accredited.

PromiseOur promise is to provide excellent care. The physicians and professional staff of the CaroMont Cancer Center take pride in providing the very best care for you and consider it a privilege to provide your treatments.

HistoryThe CaroMont Cancer Center was established in 1989 on the campus of CaroMont Regional Medical Center to address the need for comprehensive cancer services in Gaston County. Since then, the program has grown significantly in staff and technology, and recently expanded into neighboring Lincoln County.

Founded on the principle of providing high-quality, convenient care to our community, CaroMont Cancer Center continues to work to improve the health of the people and communities we serve.

About CaroMont Cancer ProgramThe CaroMont Cancer Center provides an overall system-of-care approach to the treatment of cancer. This includes prevention, early detection, education, treatment, follow up, symptom management and patient survivorship services. We focus on a patient-centric approach to cancer care, which places the patient and their family at the heart of decision making and treatment planning.

Our highly-responsive team of physicians and staff members initiate care in a coordinated manner with other necessary support services provided in the community. Our patients benefit from sophisticated technology and expertise, as well as a unique healing environment designed for wellness and hope.

We understand that patients prefer to stay close to home when receiving cancer treatment. That’s why we offer nationally-accredited cancer care…in your community.

2 Cancer Center Annual Report

TreatmentRadiation TherapyRadiation therapy is one of the most effective weapons in the war against cancer. It is given as part of an initial treatment plan if necessary or as a means to lessen or control symptoms, such as cancer-related pain. This rapidly changing field, with several evolving technologies, offers the most advanced, precise and sophisticated cancer treatments available.

CaroMont Cancer Center uses a targeted therapy approach that utilizes specific treatment to limit side effects. CaroMont Cancer Center therapies include TrueBeam™ Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Stereotactic Body Radiosurgery (SBRT), Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), Breast MammoSite® and Brachytherapy.

This advanced technology is available at our two locations: CaroMont Regional Medical Center and Lincoln Cancer Center. The treatment is highly technical and requires a special team of Radiation Oncologists, Dosimetrists, Radiation Therapists and Medical Physicists.

The Radiation Oncology program is nationally accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

SurgeryCaroMont Health has highly-trained, board-certified surgeons on staff to address the surgical needs associated with cancer treatment plans. These surgeons work closely with care teams to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Depending on the type of cancer, a patient could see one of the following: Ear Nose & Throat (ENT) Surgeon, General Surgeon, Colorectal Surgeon, Fellowship-Trained Breast Surgeon, Neurosurgeon, Plastic Surgeon, Thoracic Surgeon or Urologist.

Medical Oncology and HematologyTreatment may also involve medical oncology, and CaroMont Cancer Center’s accredited program offers compassionate care from board-certified medical oncologists.

CaroMont Cancer Center offers convenient on-site access to inpatient and outpatient infusion services. A specially-trained team of nurses provide chemotherapy and other systemic treatments in local physician offices and the CaroMont Cancer Center.


Treatment (continued)

Medical Oncology Unit CaroMont Regional Medical Center’s Medical Oncology Unit is focused on meeting the special needs of cancer patients. The nursing staff is comprised of Registered Nurses who have been specifically trained through the Oncology Nursing Society to administer chemotherapy and manage the care of patients receiving cancer therapies. Many have achieved national nursing certification in Oncology (OCN).

Infusion CenterAs with the Medical Oncology Unit, our Registered Nurses have extensive experience in infusion therapy and have received certification in chemotherapy and biotherapy administration through the Oncology Nursing Society. These nurses work collaboratively with physicians to address patient emotional and physical needs during treatment. Treatment is provided in private areas with reclining chairs, televisions and easy access from the parking deck.

A sample of the services offered in the Infusion Center include: � Administration of intravenous medications and chemotherapy � Administration of blood and blood component therapy � Administration of hydration and antiemetics


ServicesCaroMont Cancer Center recognizes that cancer can affect every aspect of a person’s life and the journey can be very challenging for the patient and their loved ones. CaroMont Cancer Center offers a number of support services to assist patients physically, psychologically, emotionally, socially and spiritually.

CaroMont Comprehensive Breast CenterWithout leaving the community, breast cancer patients benefit from a personalized plan of treatment recommendations from a multidisciplinary team of radiologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, radiation oncologists and surgeons.

In ONE visit, newly-diagnosed breast cancer patients receive: � A comprehensive evaluation � A discussion of the diagnostic and/or treatment options � A personalized plan of treatment recommendations � An assessment for clinical trial eligibility � A meeting with a nurse navigator and oncology dietitian � An assessment for Genetic Counseling

Genetic Services ProgramThe Genetic Services Program at CaroMont Health identifies patients and family members who are at increased risk for hereditary cancer. Meeting with a board-certified genetic counselor to discuss the options for genetic testing, screening and medical management can aid in early detection and cancer prevention. A genetic consultation includes:

� Detailed review of an individual’s medical and family history � A risk assessment of the likelihood that the cancer in the family is hereditary � Discussion of the benefits, risks, and limitations of genetic testing � Resources and support surrounding hereditary cancer susceptibility

Counseling Services Oncology Counseling is available to assist patients and their family in coping with the emotional and psychosocial effects of the cancer experience.

Palliative Care Many people with chronic illness suffer symptom burden that impacts their quality of life. In an effort to improve the care of patients, CaroMont Regional Medical Center provides outpatient palliative care services to help with the elimination or lessening of their symptoms. The team works to create a plan of care that is individualized for the patient and incorporates cultural and spiritual needs.


Services (continued)

Navigation Services The goal of navigation is to make sure that services offered through the CaroMont Cancer Center and the community are available to all patients. Navigators eliminate barriers that could interfere with or delay treatment. They educate patients and families and provide access to local and national resources. Navigation services are offered through the CaroMont Cancer Center by a team of nurses, social workers, financial counselors and lay navigators. These services are provided from diagnosis into survivorship.

Pastoral CareChaplains are available to support cancer patients, families and friends in making use of faith or spiritual values to work through the challenges of cancer. Pastoral Care may include conversation, prayer, liturgy, worship, sacraments, scripture reading, reflection and program referral. The pastoral care service is interfaith, personal and specific for the individual and family in need. The William McKinley Roberts Memorial Chapel is located on the second floor of CaroMont Regional Medical Center and is open for personal meditation 24 hours a day.

Gaston Hospice CaroMont’s Gaston Hospice cares for people who have a life-limiting illness that is no longer responding to curative treatment. Hospice care helps to allow these patients to live at home as fully as possible. Since 1981, the highly experienced staff and volunteers have dedicated themselves to providing the most compassionate and highest quality hospice care for your loved one and you. Hospice also provides services at CaroMont Regional Medical Center, Robin Johnson Hospice House and local long-term care facilities.

To learn more, please visit www.gastonhospice.org.


Services (continued)

Nutritional Counseling Nutrition services, specific to cancer patients and survivors, are offered by a registered dietitian with special training in oncology.

P.R.I.D.E. Program - Oncology Wellness ProgramPower to Recover through Individualized Development and Exercise

P.R.I.D.E. is a wellness program designed to assist cancer survivors in managing the physical, social, psychological and spiritual side effects of cancer treatment.

The program, developed by the CaroMont Health and Fitness Center and the Cancer Center, provides both physical exercise and lecture-style educational presentations during and post-treatment.

The goals of P.R.I.D.E. include: � Reducing fatigue � Maintaining or improving strength and endurance � Decreasing risk of depression � Increasing Independence for normal activities � Improving quality of life � Educating and informing patients

P.R.I.D.E.C A N C E R W E L L N E S S P R O G R A M

Power to Recover through Individualized Development and Exercise


AccreditationsCaroMont Health and CaroMont Cancer Center are proud to be recognized and accredited by a number of renowned professional healthcare organizations, including:

American College of Surgeons (ACOS) - Commission on Cancer

National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC)

American College of Radiology (ACR) Radiation Oncology Program

The Joint Commission (TJC)

College of American Pathologists

American College of Radiology’s CT Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s Mammography Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s MRI Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s Nuclear Medicine Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s PET/CT Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s Ultrasound Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s Breast Center of Excellence

Member of the Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC). The ACCC is a recognized leader and premier provider of resources for the cancer centers. ACCC serves as an education and advocacy organization for the entire cancer team.


2016 Key AccomplishmentsWayne Setzer: First to Receive CARES Recognition

Wayne Setzer, a volunteer in the CaroMont Cancer Center, is truly a blessing to our staff and patients. Wayne was named a CaroMont CARES Champion during a surprise presentation on the unit.

Wayne was nominated for his generosity and compassion with a patient who lived with no family nearby. This patient’s birthday was

approaching, and Wayne refused to let him celebrate alone. Wayne visited the patient’s home with a cake and gift in hand.

Congratulations, Wayne! Thank you for showing how CaroMont cares!

Buttons Take on New Life in Art PieceA collection of buttons submitted by cancer survivors across the county have been used to create a beautiful art piece serving as an inspiration to newly diagnosed cancer patients.

The project, which was a partnership between CaroMont Faith and Health Ministry, CaroMont Cancer Center and Cancer Services of Gaston County, was organized by Gastonia Parish Nurse Lisa Marisiddaiah.

The buttons were collected in faith communities, banks, local businesses, agencies and health facilities. Each button has a story behind it and represents a local cancer survivor’s unique journey. Local artists Sue Neerincx, Becky Hasty and April Moore used to buttons to create “The Tree of Life.”

"The Tree of Life" was displayed in the CaroMont Cancer Center during the month of June.

The Gazette | GastonGazette.com | Monday, June 13, 2016 D1

HEALTHQUESTIONS? Contact Lifestyles Editor Will MacDonald at 704-869-1838 or [email protected]

HEALTH WATCH

(Above) The Tree of Life canvas will be on display in different locations around Gaston County through March of next year.(Top Left ) Local artists Sue Neerincx, Becky Hasty and April Moore work on an art project with buttons contributed by cancer survivors in Gaston County. (Bottom Left) A Gaston County cancer survivor of 49 years and a Gaston County cancer survivor of 2 months pose with the Tree of Life at the Relay for Life Dinner on April 26. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAROMONT HEALTH.

See a full list ofdisplay locations for The Tree of Life onPage D2.

By Allison Drennan [email protected]

A collection of buttons is telling a beauti-ful story in Gaston County. The buttons, which were submitted by cancer survi-

vors across the county, were collected and used to create a work of art that serves as an inspira-tion to newly diagnosed cancer patients.

The project, which was a partnership between CaroMont Faith and Health Ministry, CaroMont Cancer Center and Cancer Services of Gaston County, was organized by Gastonia Parish Nurse Lisa Marisiddaiah. The project was the next step following a similar hand print tapestry project

that was successful in 2013.The buttons were collected in faith communi-

ties, banks, local businesses, agencies and health facilities. Each button has a story behind it and represents a local cancer survivor's unique jour-ney. Local artists Sue Neerincx, Becky Hasty and April Moore used to buttons to create "The Tree of Life."

Unveiled at the Relay for Life cancer survivor dinner in April, the project will be displayed around Gaston County over the next year.

“Everyone you talk to has some story of some-one they know who has been touched by cancer,” Marisiddaiah said. “This (project) is the celebra-tion of their survivorship."

HONORING CANCER SURVIVORSSCREENINGSExpo puts spotlight on men's health Gaston Family Health Services holds a Men's Health Awareness Expo from noon to 6 p.m. Friday at Eastridge Mall, 246 N. New Hope Road, Gastonia.The event will feature screenings including blood pressure, glucose, HIV and PSA (blood testing) Also available will be a cholestorol test for $10 and free pneumonia vac-cines. Men can also get help fi lling out the Marketplace insurance application.June is National Men's Health Awareness Month and Gaston Family Health Services wanted to put the spotlight on health issues of men and let them know about local resources in the community.You can learn more about the orga-nization by visiting www.gfhs.info.The event takes place on the lower level on the mall.

BLOOD DRIVES■ TUESDAY: 2:30-5:30 p.m., Pepsi Beverage Company, 152 Commerce Drive, Cherryville.■ SATURDAY: 3-6 p.m., Regal Cinema, 3778 E. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia. Free ticket voucher for donors.■ JUNE 21: 3-8 p.m., Lindsey Johnson Student Drive, 503 N. Main St., Belmont■ JUNE 23: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. CaroMont Health, 2525 Court Drive, Gastonia.■ JUNE 23: 1-4 p.m., Stanley Total Living Center, 514 Old Mount Holly Road, Stanley■ JUNE 27: 3:30 to 8 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran, 805 S. York St., Gastonia. Walk-ins are welcome, or, to reserve a donation time, call 704-864-0378. Parking is on the south side of the church and the drive will be held in the Parish Life Center.

COMMUNITY EVENTSn ARC OF GASTON COUNTY CELEBRITY SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT: 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sims Legion Park, 1001 N. Marietta St., Gastonia. The event will feature a softball game with community leaders and other special guests. Members of the Gastonia Grizzlies will be on hand. Admission is free and The Grizzlies' full concession menu as well as the Tony's Ice Cream cart will be available. Proceeds from the event will benefi t children and adults with developmental disabilities supported by programs offered through The Arc of Gaston County to promote health and wellness. Call 704-861-1036 or visit www.gastoncountyarc.org.■ GASTON COUNTY SENIOR HEALTH & WELLNESS FAIR: 9 a.m. July 20, Gaston County Senior Center, 1303 Dallas-Cherryville Highway, Dallas. The free event will feature health screenings, games including corn hole, table tennis, and chair volley-ball. Also featured will be exhibitors from local resources for seniors. Vendors are being accepted for the event. If interested, contact Ellen Fenters at 704-922-2165.

SUPPORT GROUPS■ TOPS (TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY) CHAPTER 0407: 9:15 a.m. Wednes-day, Adult Recreation Center, 519 W. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia. Meets Wednesday.■ TOPS (TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY) CHAPTER 0015: 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Adult Recreation Center, 519 W. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia. Meets Thursdays.■ LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP: 6-7:30 p.m. today, Gaston County Senior Center, 1303 Dallas-Cherryville Highway, Dallas. Meets the second Tuesday of the month.■ FOOTHILLS POST-POLIO SUPPORT GROUP: 6 p.m. June 20 at the Life Enrichment Center in Shelby. Guest speaker Todd Putnam will present a program on archeology. Those attending should bring their own meal. Water and coffee will be provided. The group is open to polio survivors in Cleveland, Gaston and Lincoln counties. Those attending are invited to bring a caregiver. The center is located off NC 18 north on Life Enrichment Boulevard, just north of Cornerstone Dentistry. The meeting takes place in the confer-ence room. For more information about this group, call Wanda-Greg Horne, 704-482-8807, or Dianne Garner, 704-434-4928.

Buttons take on new life in art piece

DEAR DOCTOR K: I recently passed a kidney stone, and it was really painful. My doctor gave me medicine. Is there anything else I can do to pre-vent another one?

DEAR READER: Besides the medicine, your diet can influence your risk of getting another kidney stone. Kidney stones are hard chemical deposits that form inside the kidneys. They can be as small as grains of sand and pass pain-lessly out of the body in urine. But they also can be the size of a pea, a marble or even larger.

If one of those stones gets into the ureters -- the tubes that connect each kidney to the bladder -- it can cause intense pain and bleeding. This may require medication and/or hospitalization to have the stone removed or broken into fragments.

Kidney stones form if too many minerals are excreted into the urine. Low fluid

volume, caused by dehydra-tion, is another cause. Most kidney stones are made of calcium oxalate. This is a combination of calcium and oxalic acid. Stones also may be made of other substances. Your doctor can have your stone analyzed to see what it was made of.

People who have already had a kidney stone have a high risk of forming another one. Your doctor should tailor your dietary recommendations based on what your kidney stone is made of. These are the dietary changes that often are recommended:

■ Drink plenty of fluids to keep your urine dilute, so minerals won't accumulate into stones. Drink at least 10 glasses of fluid a day, half of which should be water.

■ It may seem paradoxical, but eating calcium-rich foods actually reduces your risk of stones. That's because absorb-ing lots of calcium in your gut reduces how much oxalic acid you absorb. Calcium doesn't form stones without oxalic acid.

Good sources of calcium include milk, cheese, yogurt, oranges and broccoli. On the other hand, calcium pills can raise your risk for kidney stones because they increase the calcium in your blood and urine without decreasing oxalic acid. So avoid calcium pills.

■ Don't eat too much of foods that are rich in oxalic acid. These include beets, spinach, chard, rhubarb, tea, coffee, cola, chocolate and nuts.

■ Keep your sodium intake under 1,500 mg a day. A low-sodium diet reduces the amount of calcium the kidney puts into the urine.

■ Avoid or limit red meat. Animal protein increases the tendency of stones to form in the urine.

■ Most plant-based foods protect against kidney stones. High-potassium fruits such as tomatoes and bananas are best. Citrus fruits -- except grapefruit -- are another good choice.

■ Obesity increases the risk of stones, so try to shed excess pounds through a combination of fewer calories and regular exercise.

No one who has suffered the pain of a first kidney stone wants to experience a second stone. Fortunately, you can do a lot to reduce your risk.NOTE: This column is an update of one that ran originally in August 2013.

ASK DR. K

Diet can help prevent kidney stones

DR. K

Telling theirstory

(continued on next page)


2016 Key Accomplishments (continued)

Dental Care GrantSome cancer patients require extensive dental work prior to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It is important to treat and repair any oral infections and complications before beginning treatment to avoid delays in treatment, especially with cancers of the head and neck.

The Cancer Center staff works with hospital eligibility specialists, community agencies and area dentists to assist with resources for patients in need. Despite these efforts, many lack the means to pay for dental services. Thanks to a generous grant from the CaroMont Health Foundation, patients in the CaroMont Cancer Center who are uninsured, under-insured or Medicare beneficiaries now have access to proper dental care prior to treatment.

As a result of the grant, the Cancer Center has been able to assist 18 patients with medically-necessary, pre-treatment dental expenses.

New Director of Pulmonary Medicine

In June, CaroMont Health welcomed Jay Hendler, MD, as the new Medical Director of Pulmonary Medicine.

CaroMont Pulmonary Medicine, a new practice within CaroMont Medical Group, provides outpatient services for the treatment of respiratory conditions including, asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), lung cancer, occupational lung disease, pulmonary hypertension and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Hendler provides comprehensive care to inpatients at CaroMont Regional Medical Center in partnership with specialists in cardiology, oncology and surgery.

In addition to the start-up of the CaroMont Pulmonary Medicine practice, under Dr. Hendler’s leadership, the lung program will be a key focus moving into 2017.


Clinical TrialsClinical trials are strictly controlled studies of new and emerging therapies. These studies testwhether a new drug, prevention strategy or screening option is safe and effective for patients.CaroMont Cancer Center is part of a consortium of North Carolina cancer centers with accessto a wide variety of clinical trials sponsored by government organizations such as the NationalCancer Institute. This includes pharmaceutical trials and physician-initiated studies developedby our own physicians and research team.

In 2016, 9.3% of the new cancer patients as CaroMont Health were enrolled in clinical trialsrelated to cancer prevention, diagnosis, screening, treatment, quality of life or tissue studies/registries. Many of the patients enrolled in clinical trials in previous years also continue to befollowed. This contributes greatly to science and the most up-to-date cancer care.

CaroMont Cancer ConferencesCancer Conferences bring physicians of multiple disciplines into one room to discuss recently diagnosed cases, difficult cases and cases of interest in a prospective manner. This approach enables the treating physician to discuss patient care with a broad spectrum of specialties. Discussions include patient medical history, diagnostic testing, surgical procedures, stage of disease at diagnosis, treatment options including palliative care, pain management and survival outcomes. In 2016, CaroMont Health held both General Cancer Conference and a Breast Cancer-specific conference.

Physicians and healthcare professionals are welcome to attend these meetings that enhance patient care. All CaroMont Health medical staff are encouraged to submit cases to the cancer registry for presentation.


Cancer CommitteeThe Cancer Committee is the designated multidisciplinary body for the administrative oversight, development and review of cancer care services at CaroMont Health. The group meets quarterly and is charged with assessing and evaluating the quality of the cancer program and making recommendations.

Cancer Committee Membership:Steven Yates, MD Chairman/Medical Oncologist/Cancer Conference CoordinatorAlec Akbarov, MD Cardiothoracic SurgeonKathleen Besson Chief Operating OfficerJanet Brightman Director, Outpatient RehabilitationJerome Butler, MD Radiation OncologistMichael Case, MD Medical Director, Gaston HospiceMark Chaparro Director, PharmacyWilliam Charles, MD Medical Oncologist, Medical DirectorAshley Cloninger, RN Oncology Nurse NavigatorTammy Cozad, RN Clinical Research CoordinatorTodd Davis, MD Chief Medical OfficerRobert Doline, MD Radiation OncologistLisa Ganem, CTR Certified Tumor Registrar (Cancer Registry Quality Coordinator)James Greelish, MD Cardiothoracic SurgeonKaye Grubaugh, RN Palliative Care Team MemberJanice Hill, RN 5 South, Clinical Nurse ManagerDoug Johnson, DO Diagnostic RadiologistGayla Jones Cancer RegistryCarrie Klamut American Cancer SocietyRichard Lahm Executive Director, Gaston HospiceAshley Long, RN Director, Medical Surgical ServicesPaula Lundgren, MD Breast SurgeonAshley Marshall Oncology Quality CoordinatorJames McGrath, MD Medical OncologistCharles Meakin, MD Radiation OncologistAshley Migliaro Genetic CounselorMargie Owenby Oncology Program Coordinator (Community Outreach Coordinator)


Stephanie Roberts Executive Director, Cancer Services of Gaston CountyDeanna Roe Director, Medical ImagingSandy Schultz, MD General SurgeonHannah Smith Oncology Social Worker (Psychosocial Services Coordinator)Lia Spina, MD Cancer Liaison Physician/Physician Quality CoordinatorBrian Sutton, MD PathologistSteve Tracy, MD Pathologist Rick Varterasian Director, Oncology Service Line Robert Waterhouse, MD UrologistMeredith Mills Oncology Nutritionist


CaroMont Cancer Registry DataThe Cancer Registry is an essential component of the CaroMont Health Cancer Program. The Cancer Registry staff works closely with the Cancer Committee to maintain accreditation as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Program by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.

Responsibilities of the registry include the accurate and timely collection of information on cancer diagnosed and/or treated at CaroMont Health, as well as the management and analysis of this data. The information collected, such as demographics, anatomic site, tests, treatment and extent of disease, has multiple uses which include outcome reporting, patient care reviews, physician education, clinical research and hospital planning.

The data collected by the Cancer Registry is electronically submitted to the State of North Carolina and the National Cancer Database (NCDB). This allows comparative analysis with other hospitals or databases. Data analysis for specific sites can be done to compare elements to other published state, regional or national data. This information provides the cancer program benchmarking opportunities to patterns of patient care and survival.

CaroMont Health 2015 Cancer Cases

Top Four Tumor Sites

All Other40.02%

Colon/Rectum8.84%

Prostate7.51%

Lung18.73%

Breast24.90%


CaroMont Cancer Registry DataPrimary Site Table - 2015

Primary Site Total Gender AJCC Stage Group

Male Female 0 I II III IV NA UNK % Total

Breast 262 1 261 39 112 76 19 10 1 5 25

Lung 197 119 78 3 36 13 33 94 0 18 18.73

Colon/Rectum 93 37 56 1 14 27 28 13 0 10 9

Prostate 79 79 0 0 10 48 12 7 0 2 7.51

Urinary Bladder 53 38 15 25 14 6 1 4 0 3 5.04

Brain/Spinal Cord/Nervous System

35 11 24 0 0 0 0 0 35 0 3

Lip Oral Cavity Pharynx

31 23 8 0 0 4 6 18 0 3 2.95

Lymphoma 31 17 14 0 4 7 6 10 0 4 3

Other 30 15 15 0 1 2 0 4 18 5 3

Melanoma skin 26 15 11 6 8 1 3 2 0 6 2.47

Kidney 24 14 10 0 12 3 1 3 0 5 2.28

Leukemia 24 14 10 0 1 0 2 0 20 1 2

Larynx 19 15 4 1 7 4 4 3 0 0 1.81

Liver 19 15 4 0 2 2 0 7 1 7 1.81

Unknown Sites 18 14 4 0 0 0 0 0 18 0 1.71

Pancreas 17 4 13 0 1 4 4 8 0 0 1.62

Corpus Uteri 15 0 15 0 8 3 2 0 0 2 1.43

Stomach 14 7 7 1 1 2 3 3 0 4 1.33

Esophagus 12 11 1 0 0 1 1 6 0 4 1.14

Thyroid 11 3 8 0 6 3 1 0 0 1 1.05

Anus 9 3 6 0 2 2 2 1 0 2 .086

Other Urinary 9 5 4 5 1 0 0 1 0 2 0.86

Other Skin 5 5 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 0.48

Cervix 4 0 4 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 0.38

Ovary 4 0 4 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 0.38

Multiple Myeloma 3 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 .29

Soft Tissue 3 1 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0.29

Other Female Genital 2 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0.19

Other Male Genital 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0.19

Small Intestine 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0.10

Bones and Joints 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.00

Totals 1052 470 582 82 243 210 131 198 97 91 100.00


Quality Measures - Emphasis on Patient CareThe National Quality Forum (NQF) has endorsed the following quality focused measures. With submission of specific data from CaroMont Health to the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB), we are able to compare our compliance rate of these accountability or quality improvement measures against national rates. These measures not only emphasize the quality of patient care, but also the importance of accurate and complete documentation.

Percentages are based on the upper limit of the Confidence Interval to account for differences in number of cases diagnosed and treated

Breast - Conserving Surgery Radiation Therapy

Breast - Hormone Therapy

Breast - Image GuidedNeedle Biopsy

Breast - Mastectomy Radiation Therapy

CaroMont Health Similar Program Types North Carolina

Radiation is administered within 1 year of diagnosis for women under 70.

Hormone Therapy Administered within 1 year for eligible Breast Cancer.

Biopsy to the primary site is performed to establish diagnosis.

Radiation is recommended or administered following any mastectomy within 1 year of diagnosis with >= positive regional lymph nodes.

% of patients

80


Quality Measures (continued)

Colon - 12 Lymph Node Removal

Rectal - Preoperative Chemo & Radiation Therapy

Lung - Chemotherapy

Lung - No surgery

CaroMont Health Similar Program Types North Carolina

At least 12 Lymph nodes are removed and pathologically examined for resected colon cancer.

Preoperative Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy are administered for clinical AJCC T3N0, T4N0, or Stage III.

Systematic chemotheraphy within 4 months for surgically resected cases with lymph node positive non-small cell lung cancer.

Surgery is not first course of treatment for lymph node positive lung cases.

% of patients

80


Patient Survivor StoryThe Way I See It: Lessons from A Twenty-Year Cancer Survivor

In October, landscapes across the country turn gold, orange, crimson—and pink. Pink ribbons crop up everywhere—in doctor’s offices, on cars, on football helmets— a show of support for an important cause. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month: a time to remember those affected by the disease, raise support for cancer research and renew our commitment to personal prevention.

Twenty years after being diagnosed with breast cancer, survivor Lyn Anderson has made it a point to do all three. In 1996, her cancer diagnosis came as a complete shock. At 43, she went in for a routine check-up and left with an array of tests scheduled for a suspicious lump. They confirmed she had Stage II invasive breast cancer. No one ever wants to hear this news, but Lyn chose to face it head on. Around this same time, national researchers discovered the BRCA 1/2 gene, which has been linked to cancer. This discovery would prove to be a major advancement for breast cancer detection and treatment and would even impact Lyn and her family down the road.

Immediately after her diagnosis, Lyn’s doctors at CaroMont Health put together a personalized treatment plan that included surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Lyn remembers that her early morning radiation sessions were quiet and peaceful, a moment to reflect before her workday started. In fact, cancer gave her lots of time—and reasons—to reflect on her life and embrace change. Lyn finished her last chemo treatment in September 1996 and celebrated being cancer-free. In the 20 years since, she has continued celebrating her “second chance” at life and sees the world with fresh eyes. She shares some of the most important lessons cancer taught her:

Make annual screenings a priority.It can be all too easy to let regular checks-up and screenings slide, especially if you feel healthy. But if I hadn’t gone for my yearly exam, who knows when my breast cancer would have been detected? That routine screening saved my life! Be sure to keep your annual well visits and follow through on all the recommended screenings. They play such an important role in maintaining your health.

(continued on next page)

Lyn AndersonBREAST CANCER SURVIVORCANCER CENTER PATIENT


Patient Survivor Story (continued)

Commit to regular exercise.Don’t wait for a major life event or health crisis to get serious about exercising. Not only is regular exercise key to a healthy lifestyle, it’s also one of the most powerful ways to lift your mind and spirits. For me, cancer was the motivation I needed to start waking up early, exercising and staying healthy for my girls. It quickly became a positive force in my life that relaxed and rejuvenated me. Now, I start my day at the gym five or six mornings each week.

Consider genetic testing if you have a family history of cancer.Because multiple people in my family had faced cancer, I decided to undergo genetic counseling and testing. The results confirmed I had the BRCA gene mutation. When my daughters were older, they were tested, too. Genetic counseling can help you understand your risk for cancer, support early detection or prevention efforts and assess your treatment options. Knowledge is power, as they say, and the genetic information has helped my family make better decisions about our health.

Make the most of every moment.I feel like I got a second chance at life—but that’s because I decided to make some changes, follow my passions and soak up every minute I had with those I love. I joined a book club that still meets today, 20 years later! I joined the Y. I set goals for myself and worked on becoming them. And since I decided to look for ways to be present, I have led a happy, rich and varied life over the last two decades. Life is precious—don’t waste a minute of it!

PartnershipsCaroMont Cancer Center partners with the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen Foundation, Cancer Services of Gaston County, and many other local, regional and national organizations to further enhance and support our mission.

We actively seek local and national cancer care partners to bolster our strengths and better enable us to carry out the vision of CaroMont Health. Continuous improvement is not a solo performance. It requires an orchestrated effort, and we are eager to team up with organizations that can boost quality, help control costs and provide opportunities to promote community wellness.

We are proud of our cancer care partnerships in the community and the outreach programs in which we participate. Our dedicated medical professionals and volunteers contribute many hours to the community and participate in many different health events.

From our support and involvement in CaroMont Health free screenings, to volunteering in our community, wellness events and educational classes, the Cancer Program is proud to participate in these activities because of their value to our community.


Resource DirectoryCancer Center 704.834.2944Cancer Registry 704.834.4375CaroMont Comprehensive Breast Clinic 704.834.3540 CaroMont Health 704.834.2000CaroMont Heart 704.834.3278Clinical Research 704.834.2810Gaston Hospice 704.861.8405 Genetic Counseling 704.834.3671Infusion Center 704.834.3545Inpatient Oncology Unit 704.834.5200Inpatient Palliative Care 704.834.3403Lincoln Cancer Center 704.735.6637 Medical Imaging (Radiology) 704.671.5300Oncology Nutritional Services 704.834.3966Pastoral Care 704.834.2888Patient Navigation 704.671.7783P.R.I.D.E. Program 704.671.7930Radiation Oncology 704.834.2944Social Worker 704.671.7784 Volunteer Services 704.834.2256

704.834.2944 | caromonthealth.org

2016 annual report - caromont health...management and patient survivorship services. we focus on a...

Documents