“Breast cancer treatment has become very specialized in recent years,” says Amy Spomer, MD, an oncologist at Park Nicollet Clinic—St. Louis Park. “With surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, reconstruction and psychosocial aspects, an abundance of information exists for patients to research and consider,” she explains. A team approach is critical to ensure patients have access to the best care and all available clinical research information.

Communication essential to team care
Patients work closely with care coordinators (read “Care coordinator helps patients navigate tough decisions”) at Park Nicollet Jane Brattain Breast Center to make many important decisions about their breast cancer treatment. While care coordinators give patients a knowledgeable and accessible single point of contact, large, interdisciplinary teams are working behind the scenes. These teams, filled with Jane Brattain Breast Center and Park Nicollet Cancer Center specialists, meet weekly to discuss patients recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

“This is a very collaborative process,” Dr. Spomer explains. “For example, a surgeon and radiologist may discuss the location of a tumor and how it will be approached, or a medical oncologist and radiologist may discuss different aspects of reconstruction.”

Care never stops
Today’s survival rate for women with Stage 1 or Stage 2 breast cancer is nearing 90 percent. With more women surviving breast cancer than ever before, a vast need for follow-up care exists. “At Jane Brattain Breast Center, we continue to monitor survivors closely for any signs of recurring breast cancer,” Dr. Spomer explains. “We also help women cope with the side effects from breast cancer treatment, especially early menopause and how it affects bone density and quality of life.” Many breast cancer survivors find classes and support groups very beneficial.

Genetic testing uncovers risks
One exciting and relatively new area of continued breast cancer care is genetic testing. “Family members of newly diagnosed patients may wish to take advantage of genetic testing and counseling,” Dr. Spomer explains. “Genetics testing and counseling can help identify families carrying a gene that increases the risk of hereditary cancer.” Research has shown that some types of cancer, including breast, ovarian and colon cancer, are hereditary.

Ongoing research, new advances
Today’s breast cancer treatment is based on clinical trial results from up to 10 or more years ago. Similarly, the clinical studies being performed today will set the course for future treatment. “Breast cancer patients at Jane Brattain Breast Center have the option of participating in several national trials,” Dr. Spomer says. “This gives patients access to the latest advances in cancer treatment, including new drugs and chemotherapy agents, currently being approved by the Food and Drug Administration.”

Jane Brattain Breast Center also is in the process of developing a survivorship center. Its goal will be to enhance the care for survivors through research and new interventions. To learn more about interdisciplinary teams and clinical research for breast cancer patients, call Park Nicollet Health Directions at 952-993-5500 or visit parknicollet.com.