It Takes a Team to Provide a Different Experience

By Linda Lee, Cancer Center Administrator

Wrapping our arms around every cancer patient who enters our doors is what makes the care people receive here different, but we could not accomplish this level of care without the support of our entire community. Together, we are a winning combination. The Commission on Cancer, a quality program of the American College of Surgeons, has granted three year accreditation with Gold-level Commendation to Mary Bird Perkins – Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center. This accolade is so important to us because it underscores our efforts to maintain excellence in the delivery of comprehensive patient-centered care.There are many people who helped make this achievement possible: Our beloved PATIENTS courageously face their diseases and constantly inspire us to be better, motivating us to identify and develop more lifesaving and life-enhancing treatments and therapies that often allow them to live longer, happier lives with their loved ones. Many patients participate in clinical trials that may benefit their care, but also offer the ultimate gift of providing important research data that could help future patients. Our exceptional VOLUNTEERS provide another level of TLC that only they can deliver. Whether it’s a warm smile or holding the hand of an anxious patient, they offer a special brand of care. They are the heart and soul of our organization and magnify the efforts of our staff. Our generous DONORS, GRANTORS and other SUPPORTERS contribute to programs that help make so many aspects of our comprehensive cancer program possible, including innovative technology and treatments, patient assistance and survivorship programs, clinical research, multidisciplinary care, prevention and early detection programs and so much more. Our expert team of DOCTORS have dedicated their lives to fighting cancer. Their passion and love for what they do is evident in a multitude of ways, including ensuring clinical excellence at every turn. We are fortunate to have one of the best medical staffs in the country. I would especially like to thank Dr. John Lyons, Cancer Committee Chair, and Dr. Tracy Rauch, Cancer Liaison Physician, two of our physician leaders, who were instrumental in facilitating the Commission on Cancer survey. Our devoted TEAM MEMBERS go the extra mile to ensure a premier experience for each and every patient. They form a special bond with every individual they care for and those relationships often go way beyond their treatment time with us here at the Cancer Center. I can’t count the number of wonderful comments I receive about our team on any given week, but their dedication to patient care is daily. This Commission on Cancer achievement is a testament to the strength and loyalty of our community in caring for our own and for others who may come from throughout the region to access the highest-level of care in the Gulf South. I am honored to be a part of this community and look forward to sharing more with you soon.