Eye on Health: How Beacon’s comprehensive breast cancer care improves patient outcomes
The personalized approach to breast cancer care at Beacon ensures that no one navigates its complexities alone.
Dr. Katherine Goze, general surgeon with Beacon’s multi-disciplinary cancer team, emphasizes that comprehensive support begins the moment a patient receives their diagnosis. “The most important thing that I can tell a patient when they have breast cancer is that they are not alone,” Dr Goze said. “We are here with them to fight this disease.”
Every breast cancer patient at Beacon is assigned a dedicated oncology nurse navigator like Kathy Hawley, who serves as a liaison between physicians and patients throughout their entire cancer journey. Hawley provides support by helping patients understand their treatment options, answering questions and offering guidance not just to patients but to their loved ones as well.
The multi-disciplinary team includes breast surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and breast radiologists who review each patient’s case together before appointments. This collaborative approach allows for tailored treatment plans that address everyone’s unique situation.
In this WSBT Eye on Health report, Dr. Goze emphasizes the importance of early detection through annual mammograms starting at age 40, or earlier for those with strong risk factors. Early screening can catch cancer before symptoms appear, leading to better outcomes and more treatment options.
