LCRP program gets lung cancers diagnosed quickly, treatment started sooner
Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in both men and women. At the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion, we see more than the national and state average of new lung cancer diagnoses. Lung cancer also is one of the most aggressive cancers.
The LCRP created a Lung Cancer Rapid Access Team in an effort to diagnose quicker and expedite treatment to try to prevent the spread of lung cancer and give patients back their quality of life. The program also:
- is convenient for the patient;
- eliminates anxiety associated with waiting on test results or doctor’s visits; and
- designs a treatment plan with quality of life at the forefront.
The program is designed for patients that have pulmonary abnormalities found on a scan or recently diagnosed lung cancer patients. A physician’s referral is required to participate in the program.
How it works
A patient will work with a nurse navigator to schedule any necessary testing, such as a PET scan or pulmonary function test. The goal is to have all testing done prior to the first appointment so physicians can know a patient’s test results during the first meeting. However, some patients may need additional testing even after their first appointment.
Patients will meet with a team of specialists during each appointment. This makes it more convenient for the patient and helps eliminate prolonged wait times between appointments.
The physicians collaborate to determine the best course of treatment, all while keeping the patient’s health goals in mind with a focus on quality of life. Patients walk out knowing their treatment plan and their entire care team.
Meet Our Team
The Lung Cancer Rapid Access Team takes a multi-disciplinary approach to treating each individual patient. The team includes specialty physicians and nurses including:
- Dr. Doug Mullins, pulmonologist
- Dr. Marc Bailey, thoracic surgeon
- Dr. John Pablo, radiation oncologist
- Dr. John Mikell, radiation oncologist
- Dr. Joshua McKenzie, radiation oncologist
- Dr. Stephen Ramey, radiation oncologist
- Medical Oncology
- Kaitlyn Youmans, nurse navigator for the Rapid Access Lung Treatment Program
FAQ
Where is the program at?
Patients participating in the program will come to the Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion, 225 Candler Drive (second floor)
How do I get an appointment?
If a PET or CT scan shows a suspicious lung nodule, your physician may recommend you to the Lung Cancer Rapid Access Team. Depending on your insurance, a physician’s referral may be required. Youmans can assist you with that or if you can self-referral. If you are seeking a second opinion, Youmans also can help you get set up in the program.
Who do I contact for more information?
For more information, please call oncology nurse navigator Kaitlyn Youmans at 912-819-5169 or email her at youmanska@sjchs.org.
