WMHS Approved as Network Cancer Program

The Western Maryland Health System has been awarded a three-year approval with commendation as a Network Cancer Program by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer for meeting its highest standards of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support services. Only twenty-five percent of the hospitals in the United States have cancer programs approved by the Commission on Cancer, and only 15 providers across the country have achieved designation as a Network Cancer Program.

"This latest approval with commendation marks the first time that WMHS was surveyed as a Network Cancer Program," explains Frank Pommett, Senior Vice President at WMHS. "In past years, the cancer services at Sacred Heart and Memorial Hospitals had been surveyed and accredited independently by the Commission on Cancer. This new designation as a network cancer program also encompasses the many prevention and early detection services that we provide to the region. In fact, our commendation from the Commission on Cancer is for the numerous screenings and educational programs provided by the WMHS Regional Cancer Center and the WMHS Wellness Center."

When a provider achieves the Commission on Cancer's standards for a network cancer program, it ensures area residents that they will receive quality care close to home provided by one network system. It also indicates that patients receive comprehensive care that offers a more complete range of state-of-the-art services and equipment within one program. Network cancer programs also must use a multidisciplinary approach to coordinating the best treatment options possible for the patient. These programs must also provide patients with cancer-related education and support services, including information about ongoing cancer clinical trials and new treatment options.

"Cancer is a complex disease to treat," continued Pommett. "It requires a multidisciplinary approach to coordinate quality care through all phases-diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and ongoing support. We strive to make sure patients receive the highest level of integrated care."

The Network Cancer Program is a new category of approval from the Commission on Cancer that was established in 2000 to distinguish programs that provide integrated care and offer comprehensive services, are owned by a single organization, and are accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations (JCAHO).

The Commission on Cancer is composed of Fellows of the American College of Surgeons and representatives from 40 national organizations that reflect the full spectrum of cancer care. It sets standards of excellence for hospital and free-standing programs and promotes the interdisciplinary cooperation among cancer specialists.

Some exciting new features for the WMHS Cancer Program include a planned expansion of services for patients requiring Radiation Therapy. Scott Watkins, M.D., the new Medical Director of Radiation Oncology, is leading the efforts. The Medical Oncology service awaits the arrival of a new medical oncologist, with Dr. Alida Podrumar joining WMHS from the Johns Hopkins Fellowship program this fall.