The Multidisciplinary cancer team at Augusta University offers an array of specialty providers to ensure that you are receiving the highest quality, most up-to-date cancer treatment. Recent studies have shown that multidisciplinary groups in cancer care result in improved outcomes for patients. Continuity of care and communication between services are improved.
What is a Multidisciplinary group? Here at the cancer center at Augusta University, the Gastrointestinal team is made up of a variety of Physicians and clinicians that provide compassionate treatment for a wide range of gastrointestinal cancers. Our board certified surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists and certified nurses all come together to provide you with concise information and treatment regarding your cancer diagnosis. These providers all embrace a non-competitive team approach to ensure that you are receiving treatment that is tailored to your individual needs and concerns. Our multidisciplinary team includes dieticians and social workers to optimize your health and wellbeing as you embark on this journey.
Navigating the healthcare system can be tough, even without a new diagnosis of cancer. Patients enjoy the benefit of a nurse navigator to help guide them through the system at our center. Nurse navigators are all well-trained Registered Nurses who specialize in various areas of cancer care. These nurse navigators ensure that you, the patient, are receiving the best, most expedient care possible. Nurse navigators are the point person in your care; there to provide you with answers to the questions that may arise in your day to day care.
Research into cancer care and treatment would not be possible without trials. Augusta University's Cancer research center is the CSRA's only local research facility focused solely on cancer staging, research and treatment. Enrolling in a clinical trial helps to move cancer research in the direction we all desire…Cure.
How does it work? As a new patient to the Augusta University Cancer system, your referring physician will need to send all the relevant paperwork to the GI Cancer nurse navigator. In turn, she will begin the process of requesting any other relevant documentation that may be needed prior to your first appointment with us. In many cases, we are able to see patients in the MDC within a week. Prior to your appointment in the Multidisciplinary clinic, the entire team will have met beforehand to discuss your medical issues. In that meeting a plan will be formed to provide you with the best treatment possible. Input from all services is encouraged and any issues or concerns are raised. You will then meet the team and be presented with the plan and given the opportunity to ask questions of all the team members. Further appointments for other services that may be needed will be made at that time. A timeline for your treatment will be provided to you. Contact numbers for all applicable team members will be given to you and patient education will be provided. A discussion of applicable research protocols may also be discussed with you on the same day. Some patients can be overwhelmed with the amount of information that they receive on their MDC day; but most appreciate being involved in their care and feeling part of a community.