Multimodality Clinics
Conquering cancer requires a team approach. For many patients, navigating
through referrals, tests, treatments, specialists and office visits can
create additional challenges at a time when life is challenging enough.
At the Lynn Cancer Institute (LCI), we take a different approach. It’s
called multimodality care, and it brings the entire medical team to the
patient – in one location.
Each multimodality team is comprised of physicians and healthcare professionals
who specialize in a specific site of cancer such as breast, thoracic,
urological, advanced skin cancer/melanoma and gastrointestinal. The team
is able to develop a personalized plan of care for each patient. These
treatments include the most advanced technology and current treatments
available, as well as options for new protocols available only through
clinical trials.
During the initial visit, a patient may meet with a surgeon, medical oncologist,
radiation oncologist, oncology social worker, oncology dietitian, genetic
oncologist or other specialists. This team of providers, along with radiologists,
pathologists and additional experts, holds a conference to review the
patient’s films, biopsy slides and any other test results. The team
develops recommendations for additional diagnostic work-ups and treatments.
The recommendations are then provided to the patient by the referring
doctor or one of the team members. This evaluation allows each of the
specialists involved in the care to collectively meet and create a coordinated
treatment plan.
For more information, call 561.955.6627.
Surgeons
The multimodality clinics (MMCs) include surgeons who specialize in specific
types of cancer surgeries such as breast, colo-rectal, hepatobiliary and
pancreatic, urological, skin and melanoma, lung and esophageal. They are
experienced in minimally invasive procedures, robotics, sentinel node
and reconstructive surgery. Our surgeons are active participants in the
weekly oncology conferences.
Radiation Oncology
Led by nationally recognized, board-certified physicians, the radiation
oncology team has extensive experience treating cancer patients. Our specialists
are experts in quality control, patient safety and treatment validation.
The radiation oncologists will discuss in detail the different advanced
technology options available, including the Accuray CyberKnife® M6™
System, intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), stereotactic body
radiation therapy (SBRT), image guided radiation therapy (IGRT), stereotactic
radiosurgery (SRS), respiratory gating, and therapshere. The team will
address how radiation therapy can play a role in treatment and contribute
to the cure of your cancer.
Tumor Boards
Cancer-specific tumor boards are conducted weekly at the Lynn Cancer Institute.
In this conference setting, the patient’s case, imaging and test
results are reviewed and discussed. This collaboration results in a comprehensive,
detailed case by multiple physician experts including subspecialized radiologists
and pathologists. The type of treatment sequencing, clinical trial options,
patient health and goals are all integrated into recommendations.
Medical Oncology
The Lynn Cancer Institute’s multimodality medical oncologists are
specialty-trained in specific cancer sites such as breast, colo-rectal,
lung, skin, prostate and pancreas. They are active participants in clinical
trials. They offer their patients the newest and most innovative treatment
approaches available, including targeted molecular treatments, biological
treatments and chemotherapy. All of our medical oncologists come from
university-based cancer programs and continue to teach, conduct clinical
trials and work closely with major academic cancer institutions.
Imaging
Our experienced team of diagnostic radiologists and interventionalists
are recognized around the world for their skills and developing advances
in imaging. LCI’s imaging technologies include PET/CT, ultrasound,
big bore CT, fluroscopy and digital radiology. LCI radiologists frequently
conduct educational sessions for physicians from around the world on new
biopsy and imaging technologies.
Pathology
Patients at the Lynn Cancer Institute benefit from the experience and expertise
of our disease-specific pathologists to determine the most optimal treatment
plan. Our pathologists use scientific applications to analyze blood, tissue
and other samples to develop a comprehensive result. Their tests help
to diagnose or rule out diseases, as well as monitor the progression or
regression of diseases. Pathologists work in unison with our Boca Regional
primary care physicians, surgeons and radiologists to collectively develop
an approach to treatment.
Genetics
It has become increasingly clear that genetics play an important role in
the development of many cancers. When applicable, a genetic specialist
will review the family history of patients seen in the MMCs. Formal genetic
counseling and testing is offered to patients when appropriate. One of
the many issues that worry nearly every newly diagnosed cancer patient
is, “How will this affect my family members?” This question,
as well as the important issue of how genetics may impact treatment management
and future cancer prevention, is addressed by a team specializing in medical
genetics.
Nutrition
Nutrition is a vital module of our program. Our clinical registered dietitian
is a certified specialist in oncology nutrition and is a member of our
multidisciplinary team. The dietitian attends the oncology conferences
and is available for one-on-one consultations at any point throughout
the treatment process. Educational nutrition classes and cooking demonstrations
are held monthly at the Institute.
Psychosocial
Attending to every aspect of a cancer patient’s care is central to
the MMC philosophy. Our psychosocial team is comprised of board-certified,
oncology-dedicated, master’s level social workers. These specialized
counselors have many years of expertise in helping patients and their
families cope with the complex social and psychological issues that may
arise from a diagnosis and treatment. The team also serves as the liaison,
connecting patients and their families to the different resources and
agencies available to assist them.
Research
Clinical trials are essential to ensuring that we offer the very best treatment
options available. That is why the Institute offers patients access to
the latest clinical trials. The multimodality team will review every patient
for the opportunity to be a participant in one of the dozens of national
clinical trials available to individuals with cancer.
Nurse Navigators
Coordinating the cancer process is often complex and confusing. Nurse navigators
are a patient’s point person at the MMC. They will assist you through
the process, coordinating and connecting all aspects of your cancer treatment,
including diagnosis, education about your cancer and expediting appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to bring to the MMC?
A nurse navigator will determine what records you need to have at the
clinic in advance of your appointment. These are extremely important to
the physicians to fully assess and render a comprehensive opinion.
How do I get referred to the MMC?
You may be referred by your surgeon or any physician involved in your
care or you may call as a self-referral. The MMC coordinator will discuss
with you the process for making an appointment, including whether you
need a primary care physician referral, based upon your own insurance
carrier policies.
How will I be billed for this appointment?
Each physician you see will bill you for the professional component of
your appointment. The Hospital charges a separate facility fee. An administrative
coordinator will work with you and your insurance provider to get all
appropriate authorizations and referrals.
Who should come with me to the appointment?
The MMC appointment is a good time to bring family members or supportive
friends who may want to ask questions or be a “second set of ears.”
Appointment rooms can generally accommodate three to four people. However,
if you need more space, it will be helpful to let the coordinator know
you will be accompanied by a larger group.
Will I receive any treatment at this appointment?
No. This is a consultative appointment and there will not be treatment
given at the time of the appointment. Occasionally, additional tests or
imaging will be scheduled during the MMC visit.
Will the doctors at the clinic be the same doctors who treat me?
The primary purpose for the MMC is to develop a treatment recommendation.
Ultimately, the decision as to who provides the actual treatment will
be determined by you and your referring physician. The physicians who
participate in the MMC do offer treatment and are accepting new patients.