Patients know who to trust for outstanding care. Once again, the doctors at Anne Arundel Medical Center (AAMC) DeCesaris Cancer Institute have been voted the area's Top Docs.
When a patient is diagnosed with cancer, they want the very best that medical science has to offer. That's what the AAMC DeCesaris Cancer Institute is known for, not only among the patients they serve, but among their colleagues and professional medical associations around the country.
The challenges of navigating all aspects of treatment and management can be daunting for patients and their families, but at the DeCesaris Cancer Institute, a full range of professionals comes together to coordinate all aspects of care, from the first time a patient is seen to follow-up, wellness and support services. Nurse Navigators guide patients through the medical system and advise them on the services available, from education, genetics counseling, social work, psychology services and support groups for patients and loved ones. Navigators provide comfort and a consistent presence during a stressful time.
“We want to make sure patients and their families don't feel that they are on their own,” said Barry Meisenberg, M.D., Medical Director of the DeCesaris Cancer Institute.
Each patient's treatment is closely coordinated among the full spectrum of medical disciplines. Teams of surgeons, radiologists and other specialists work in consultation with one another to achieve the best results for all patients.
Trusted in the community as a resource for cancer prevention and treatment, the DeCesaris Cancer Institute also has a reputation for finding solutions to even the most complicated of cancers. Its programs consistently achieve high awards for excellence in quality medical care, patient satisfaction and outcomes.
AAMC's DeCesaris Cancer Institute is one of only three centers in the state to have earned three-year program approval with commendation from the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer.
Last year the infusion and medical oncology practice became one of the first in the country to receive Quality Oncology Practice Certification through the American Society of Clinical Oncology. The Breast Center received accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, and the Outpatient Imaging Service was awarded Maryland's first “Breast Imaging Center of Excellence” accreditation.
The radiation oncology program received accreditation from the American College of Radiology after a rigorous review of more than 100 practice guidelines and technical standards. Investments in Novalis radiosurgery technology ensures patients get the most precise and targeted treatments.
These are some of the most prestigious awards in the fields of cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. They reflect only a fraction of the many acclaimed programs and services provided at AAMC's DeCesaris Cancer Institute. A few others include:
• The Rapid Access Lung Program enables people with abnormalities in chest imaging to receive evaluation and diagnosis as quickly as possible.
• The multi-disciplinary Prostate Program and the comprehensive Colo-Rectal Cancer Program provide the coordinated care of many specialists such as urologists, surgical oncologists, gastroenterologists, and medical and radiation oncologists.
• AAMC's Research Institute advances medical knowledge and technology in many areas, and offers the promise of new cancer medications and therapies.
The variety of services at AAMC's DeCesaris Cancer Institute speaks to the eadth and depth of medical excellence and commitment to cancer survivorship. Consistent recognition and professional awards echo what members of the community already know.
These are the doctors you want.
Q: Dr. Meisenberg, what role do you feel the DeCesaris Cancer Institute plays in the community?
A: The DeCesaris Cancer Institute has grown and matured to the point where it has become the clearinghouse for information and services for our patients and the community. We organize educational events for the public, patients of our center, and health care providers. We provide essential planning and help to ing new programs and therapies to the community. We take a comprehensive view on cancer issues, including prevention, screening, treatment, and then after treatment, what we call survivorship issues. We are committed to creating an environment that anticipates, supports and fulfills the needs of our patients and their loved ones as they move from diagnosis and treatment through recovery and survivorship.
— Barry Meisenberg, MD, Anne Arundel Medical Center
