Introduction to MD Anderson Cancer Center
MD Anderson Cancer Center is a global leader in cancer care, attracting thousands of patients from all over the world. In 2023, the center treated around 179,000 patients, with approximately 45,000 of them coming from out of state. Dr. Neema Navai, cochair of the institution’s Virtual Care platform, plays a crucial role in coordinating and streamlining care for long-distance patients.
Challenges Faced by Out-of-Town Patients
A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and traveling to seek the best possible care can add to the complexity. Patients from out of town face unique challenges, such as finding accommodation, accessing cultural services, and navigating the healthcare system in a new city. However, MD Anderson benefits from being located in a multicultural and welcoming city like Houston, which helps to ease the transition for patients. The institution also has dedicated teams and resources to support patients and make their experience as seamless as possible.
Programs for Out-of-Town Patients
To address the challenges faced by out-of-town patients, MD Anderson offers virtual care services. This allows patients to access the center’s services remotely, reducing the need for travel. The center’s physician faculty is licensed in nine states outside of Texas, enabling them to provide virtual care to patients across the country. Virtual care has been instrumental in coordinating clinical needs, allowing patients to receive the care they need within a few short days rather than weeks.
Telemedicine at MD Anderson
MD Anderson uses telemedicine in various ways, including virtual care visits, remote patient monitoring, and hospital-at-home programs. These digital health tools enable the center to maintain clinical insights on patients while they are outside the hospital, ensuring that they receive the best possible care. The center is also exploring new technologies, such as hospital-at-home programs, to further enhance patient care.
Quality of Care for Out-of-State Patients
The quality of care for out-of-state patients who rely solely on virtual care is not compromised. MD Anderson’s commitment to cancer outcomes is unwavering, and virtual care is just one way the center augments its ability to provide excellent care. While some patients may need to be physically present for certain treatments, virtual care is a cohesive and holistic approach that ensures patients receive the care they need, regardless of their location.
Message to Out-of-State Patients
For out-of-state patients who are hesitant to come to MD Anderson due to the distance, Dr. Navai assures them that the center has robust opportunities for entry and a team of dedicated staff to support them. From travel and housing arrangements to understanding what to expect during their stay, MD Anderson is well-equipped to help patients navigate the process.
A Look Back at MD Anderson’s History
MD Anderson Cancer Center has a rich history of innovation and progress. Some notable milestones include:
- 1941: The center was established as the Texas State Cancer Hospital and the Division of Cancer Research.
- 1954: MD Anderson adopted the use of the Cobalt-60 unit, a pioneering technology in radiation therapy.
- 1971: The center became one of the first three comprehensive cancer centers designated under the National Cancer Act.
- 2001: MD Anderson earned Magnet Recognition for nursing.
- 2011: Scientists from MD Anderson reported on the BATTLE trial, a groundbreaking study that used real-time biomarker analysis to personalize lung cancer treatments.
- 2012: The center introduced the Moon Shots Program to accelerate scientific discoveries and develop targeted cancer therapies.
- 2018: Dr. James P. Allison, executive director of the immunotherapy platform at MD Anderson, received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his work in immunotherapy.
- 2020: MD Anderson reported on the success of clinical trials for CAR NK cell therapy, an innovative treatment that uses engineered natural killer cells to target cancer.
- 2023: The center contributed to the development of 25 out of 43 FDA-approved cancer drugs, nearly 60% of the year’s new treatments.
Conclusion
MD Anderson Cancer Center is a world-renowned institution that has been at the forefront of cancer care for over 80 years. With its commitment to innovation, patient care, and research, the center continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the fight against cancer. Through its virtual care services, telemedicine, and dedication to providing the best possible care, MD Anderson is making a difference in the lives of patients from all over the world.
