Cancer Survivors - Union Hospital...The I Can Cope program gives participants an opportunity to...

2015Cancer Survivors

2014 CANCER COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Martha Hosford, MDChairperson & Medical Oncology

Jamil Khatri, MDCancer Conference Coordinator

Elizabeth Lowe, MDBreast Program Leadership & General Surgeon

Justin Sausville, MDCancer Liaison Physician, Specialty Surgeon (Urologist)

Sunjay Shah, MDRadiation Oncologist

Richard Szumel, MDPathologist

Timothy Wozniak, MDMedical Director of Oncology

Horatio Yeung, MDDiagnostic Radiologist

Tracy Anderson, RNManager, Breast Health Center & Breast Program Leadership

Laurie Beyer, CPA, MBACancer Program Administrator & CFO

Zohra Ali-Khan Catts, MS, LCGCGenetic CounselorHelen F. Graham Cancer Center

Jean-Marie Donahoo, BA, MPH-HPCommunity Outreach Coordinator

Kristine Henry, MA, RD, LDN, CNSCNutrition

David Jaspan, RPh, CCPDirector of Pharmacy

Davida KamaraCancer Program Research Coordinator

Amanda Klockars-McMullen, RN, MSN, CPHQQuality Improvement

Anne Lara, Ed.D., RN, CPHIMSCIO

Gene ManuelPalliative Care Chaplain

Kathryn McKinney Director, Public Relations & Marketing

Beth Money, BSN, RN, OCNDirector, Oncology Services, Infusion Services & Bioethics

Margaret RonalloClinical Research Nurse

Ann Shiber, MPT, CLT-LANARehabilitation Specialist

Amy Shives, MSW, LGSWSocial Worker, Psychosocial Services Coor, Mental Health Professional, Palliative Care

Mary Sorrelle, CTRCertified Tumor Registrar, Cancer Registry Coordinator

Theresa YoungAmerican Cancer Society

DELIVERING HIGH-QUALITY, CONVENIENT, COST-EFFECTIVE CARE

At Union Hospital, our mission is to deliver the best cancer care to Cecil County and surrounding communities. Our Cancer Program is designed to provide patients with high-quality, convenient, cost-effective care, and our Cancer Committee continues to take steps to strengthen that mission.

Each year, members of the Cancer Committee develop, analyze, and document the required studies that measure the quality of care and outcomes for patients with cancer. This year, the committee evaluated two studies of quality: Mammography Follow-Up and Colon Cancer CEA Testing. You can read more about these two studies on pages 28 and 29 of this calendar.

Because cancer care requires a collaborative effort from a team of experts, our multidisciplinary conference continues to meet weekly to offer a prospective evaluation of difficult clinical cases. The patient’s needs are addressed from all aspects of care, and a comprehensive plan is rendered. Members of medical oncology, radiation oncology, and surgical oncology, as well as primary care physicians attend these meetings. In addition, non-physician professionals attending include experts in genetic counseling, psychosocial counseling, social work, research nurses, and nutrition.

Our Survivorship program, which was developed to address the needs of patients who have completed active treatment, has been well received. Medical experts assess the patient’s overall health, disease and disease treatment and develop a health maintenance plan. We look forward to continuing this important program in 2015 and beyond.

Thanks to our dedicated administration, the Cancer Program at Union Hospital is widely recognized as a center of excellence. Rest assured we will continue to provide caring, compassionate healthcare to all who need it.

— The Cancer Program at Union Hospital

COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAMS

BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUPFREE | Third Tuesday of every other month (even months), 12-1:30 p.m. , 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Support groups are an excellent complement to medical care. Those faced with breast cancer can join us and receive support, understanding, guidance and education to

help you stay strong and positive. For additional information, call 410-620-3710.

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUPFREE | Third Wednesday of each month, 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Support group for caregivers, family members and friends of an elderly, ill or dependent person. The group offers emotional support, tips about managing your loved one

and information about community resources. The program is sponsored by Union Hospital’s Adult Day Services program and meets at the Adult Day Care Center, 152

Railroad Avenue, Elkton. Anyone caring for a loved one either at home or in a nursing facility is invited. If you wish, bring your loved one. Staff is available to provide care

while you join us for the meeting. Contact 410-392-0539 for more information.

“I CAN COPE” CANCER EDUCATION PROGRAMAmerican Cancer Society & Union Hospital Co-Sponsor

FREE | Third Wednesday of each month, 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

The I Can Cope program gives participants an opportunity to share their concerns with others having similar experiences and to design ways to cope with the challenges that

arise from a cancer diagnosis. Guest speakers include professionals in the field of cancer management. In addition, videos, print materials and class discussion provide up-to-

date information for patients, family and friends. Light dinner is served. For more information call 443-406-1374.

KIDS CAN COPEFREE | Second Wednesday of each month, 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. This support group is for children ages 6-16 who have a parent or other loved one with cancer or other

chronic illness. Creative activities are designed to help participants identify and cope with feelings and build resiliency they will need during difficult times. RSVP required;

call 410-398-4000, ext. 5546.

LOOK GOOD....FEEL BETTERFREE | This program offers women and men with cancer a chance to learn how to enhance their appearance while undergoing treatment. A licensed cosmetologist assists

those with cancer in looking their best. Call the Cancer Resource Center at 443-246-4246.

Back in 2008, Jacqueline Lewis-Henry knew something was wrong. Although she felt fine during the day, there was an unusually intense pain in her side when she lay down at night.

Jacqueline went to see her gynecologist, who found fibroid cysts; but that diagnosis didn’t match the level of pain she was experiencing. During what should have been a quick procedure to remove the cysts, her doctor discovered that Jacqueline’s ovaries were cancerous. The 45-minute procedure turned into a four-hour surgery, which caused her to miss nine weeks of work.

Jacqueline admits the doctors were right when they told her husband, “Your wife was very, very lucky!” Jacqueline not only was able to forego chemotherapy and radiation, but a second and third opinion would later verify that she is now cancer free.

According to Jacqueline, the support from her big family was the best encouragement, but she also credits Union for her excellent care. “Even now when I go in for tests or check-ups, they are very supportive and understanding,” said Jacqueline. “Everyone at Union is just wonderful!”

Today, six years later, Jacqueline is thankful that she listened to her body. She knows if she had ignored or masked the pain with medicine, she wouldn’t be here today.

Jacqueline Lewis-HenryOvarian Cancer

Alzheimer’s Support Group6:30-7:30 pm

Kids Can Cope5:30-6:30 pm

Diabetes Support Group5-6 pm

I Can Cope6-8 PM

Caregivers Support Group 4-5 pm

2015JANUARY “Everyone at Union is just wonderful!”

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december 20141 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

february

6th, 7th & 9th Auxiliary Uniform Sale


New Year’s Day

Martin Luther King Day

2015

In 2008, county government retiree Chris Main was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although it’s often a time in her life she’d rather forget, Chris sees the value in sharing her story. She knows that preventive measures and an early mammogram are what saved her life.

With minimal issues and side effects, Chris endured a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation. She shares her heart-felt message about early detection and taking responsibility for your own health with others.

“During that time, I was an emotional mess,” said Chris. “I would just break down at my appointments and cry. But the doctors, nurses and staff were all so great, especially in the Union Hospital Breast Health Center. Everyone went out of their way to be nice to me.”

To get through the obstacles of a cancer diagnosis, Chris was intent on keeping herself busy by working part-time in retail, as well as being a substitute in the county schools’ cafeterias. “Work was my therapy,” added Chris. “If I had sat at home during treatment, I would have gone crazy! I just had to just keep on going.”

Then and now, Chris enjoys reading and traveling, especially going on cruises with friends. She is married with one son and says she is beyond thankful for them, as well as the compassionate care she continues to receive at Union Hospital.

Chris MainBreast Cancer Survivor

2015FEBRUARY“Without a doubt,

Union is a great community hospital!”

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I Can Cope6-8 PM



Breast Cancer Support Group12-1:30p pm & 6-7:30 pm

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january1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

march

3rd & 4th Auxiliary Bake Sale

Groundhog Day

Valentine’s Day

Presidents’ Day

National Wear Red Day

At just 40 years old, Scott Rowe was at a low risk for colon cancer. He was in good health and had little family history of cancer.

Scott left his job at the Clorox manufacturing plant one day not feeling well – he was experiencing nausea, an upset stomach, and intense pain and pressure. He went straight to Union Hospital, where he was diagnosed with colon cancer. To battle his cancer, Scott underwent colorectal resection surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

Now, seven years later, he says he is thankful for his experience and the support he received from his family, his company and his hospital. “I like that the people at Union treat me as an individual,” Scott said. “They know me by name, they ask about my boys and they cater to my schedule. I wasn’t just a cancer case to them – I was actually a person.”

For the past two years, Scott’s treatment has been “maintenance therapy,” which inhibits the formation of new blood vessels that feed cancer. “It’s a privilege to have an amazing group of people at Union working for me,” Scott said. “And it’s great to have all the resources I need at just one hospital.”

Scott is most thankful to God for his strength and fortitude. “In all aspects of my life, I am extremely blessed.”

Scott RoweColon Cancer Survivor

2015MARCH “I wasn’t just a cancer case to them –

I was actually a person.”


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april


Junior Board Bomboy’s Candy Sale


I Can Cope6-8 PM



Daylight Saving Time Starts

Junior Board Bomboy’s Candy Sale

6th, 7th & 9th Auxiliary $6 Jewelry Sale

6th, 7th & 9th Auxiliary $6 Jewelry SaleSt. Patrick’s Day

First Day of Spring

National Doctor’s Day

It had been a tough year for 54-year-old Elkton resident Wendy Davis. She lost her husband in September 2013 and was diagnosed with cancer six months later. Although Wendy said it wasn’t easy, she still considers herself very fortunate.

“Because of my husband’s death, my daughter insisted that I get a full physical,” said Wendy. “I am so thankful that she pushed me – and I am very thankful for the early detection.”

As a follow-up to her doctor’s visit, Wendy had a routine mammogram. The test uncovered a small mass, which was diagnosed as stage I breast cancer. “I was shocked at first, but knew I was fortunate to have caught it so early,” said Wendy.

For treatment, Wendy endured a lumpectomy and completed a seven-week radiation therapy program. As a Union Hospital employee, Wendy felt an amazing amount of support – not only from her co-workers in the housekeeping department, but where she was treated, too. “Everyone in the Breast Health Center was absolutely amazing,” said Wendy. “They took such great care of me and handled everything for me. I’ve never seen a department staff so together!”

Wendy is immeasurably grateful for the time she spends with her daughter. “We love doing what most ladies like to do – we shop, go to movies and have dinner together,” said Wendy. “Between her and my co-workers at Union, I have all the support I need!”

Wendy DavisBreast Cancer Survivor



2015APRIL“Everyone in the Breast Health Center

was absolutely amazing!”

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I Can Cope6-8 PM



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march 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

may

3rd & 4th Auxiliary Book Fair

3rd & 4th Auxiliary Book FairEaster Sunday

First Day of Passover

Administrative Professionals Day

In the spring of 2014, art enthusiast Judy Watson was diagnosed with melanoma after a suspicious spot was biopsied on her forearm. “I went with my sister to a free skin check and screening at Union,” said Judy. “I’m so thankful that we found it at an early stage and I didn’t have to go through chemo and radiation.”

Since her diagnosis, Judy continues to have screenings every six months and says she is much more cautious and aware of her skin. She also uses SPF anytime she goes outdoors. “We never think we are going to be the one that gets cancer,” said Judy. “I was so careless when I was young and always went down by the seashore to work on my tan.”

Judy says she now attends the “I Can Cope” support group at Union Hospital with her sister, who is also a cancer survivor. The program, co-sponsored by Union Hospital and the American Cancer Society, offers patients, families and friends the opportunity to learn ways to cope with the challenges that arise from a cancer diagnosis. “They have a dinner, guest speakers and programs that are always very interesting,” said Judy. “It’s one of many great programs that the hospital offers.”

As a former volunteer in Union’s gift shop, Judy feels like the hospital’s staff is like family. “The cancer center’s staff is incredible,” said Judy. “They are involved and compassionate, and they really care for each and every patient.”

Judy WatsonMelanoma Survivor



I Can Cope6-8 PM



2015MAY “They are involved and compassionate,

and they really care for each and every patient.”

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april 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

june

6th, 7th & 9th Auxiliary Purse Sale

31

National Nurses Day

Mother’s Day

Memorial DayWorld No Tobacco Day

Fair Hill Races

Elkton artist Bruce Parlier had been having trouble with kidney stones. During a doctor’s visit in July 2014, his urologist spotted something on one of his X-rays and, according to Bruce, saved his life.

Diagnosed with kidney cancer, Bruce’s doctor presented him with several options for treatment. Bruce chose to have a nephrectomy, a surgical procedure that removes the entire kidney, to treat his cancer. “I consider myself lucky,” said Bruce. “Most people hear the ‘C’ word and they get overwhelmed. I was presented with all the facts and treatment options – and just knew I was going to receive the best care.”

Bruce has a passion for painting and specializes in wall murals. He also enjoys the outdoors, hiking and life itself. Bruce credits his positive outlook and faith to the support he received from his family and his part-time employer, Mount Aviat Academy Catholic School. “The sisters at the school have given me such wonderful support and spiritual guidance.”

Bruce says he will continue having screenings twice each year and wants to encourage others to get screened, too. “I hope I can pass on the encouragement with kindness and support to others, especially through programs like Union Hospital’s support group,” said Bruce. “I love helping others and I want to pay it forward to other people.”

Bruce ParlierKidney Cancer Survivor

2015JUNE“I can’t put it in better words —

the Union staff is just wonderful!

I wouldn’t go anywhere else!”

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JULY





I Can Cope6-8 PM




National Cancer Survivor Day

Flag Day

Father’s Day

First Day of Summer

2015

When 29-year-old Cecil County resident Hunter Ruth first noticed an egg-size lump under his armpit, he knew he needed to get it checked right away. The avid scuba diver and self-described outdoorsman always knew having light eyes and light hair put him at risk for skin cancer, but he never expected to be diagnosed with melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, at such a young age.

Hunter underwent surgery, one month of intensive radiation, and one year of chemotherapy in combination with interferon treatment, a type of therapy that keeps your immune system boosted. “The entire process was explained to me, including the number of treatments and how the radiation would be very concentrated, focusing only on the affected area,” Hunter said. “The Union Hospital staff guided me through my treatment and they were very easy to work with.”

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and Hunter is sharing his story in hopes of spreading the message of prevention and early detection for skin cancer. “I never took any precautions until all of this happened to me,” says Hunter. “I grew up being adventurous and was always outdoors and in the water. I even took a job as an underwater well diver in Louisiana, one of the deadliest jobs in the world.”

Nearly five years later, Hunter is a union carpenter and is married with two young children. He says he is much more cautious and routinely goes to his checkups twice per year. “My perspective on life is different now,” says Hunter. “I appreciate things and try to live in the moment.”

Hunter RuthMelanoma Survivor


2015JULY“My perspective on life

is different now.”

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I Can Cope6-8 PM



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AUGUST

Independence Day

Growing up in farming and being a 55-year member of the local Calvert Grange farming organization, Eleanor Cline has spent a lifetime giving back to her community and her country. In fact, she has volunteered at the election polls for 40 years. “As long as the good Lord keeps me going,” says Eleanor, “I’m going to keep on giving back.”

A 16-year colon cancer survivor, Eleanor gives back in other ways, too. She’s not only an advocate for her own health, she also encourages others. “I try to tell everyone to stay active and take care of themselves and their health,” said Eleanor.

Thanks to early detection, Eleanor was treated with colorectal surgery and was able to forego chemotherapy and radiation. “I was very fortunate,” says Eleanor. “I went to the doctor right after I noticed bleeding and my doctors took it from there.”

In recent years, Eleanor has also been diagnosed with two types of skin cancer: melanoma and basal cell carcinomas. “I keep in close communication with my doctors. Anytime I think there might be something wrong, I let them know and they always call me back right away,” said Eleanor. “Union’s doctors and staff have always taken such great care of me.”

Married for more than 48 years, Eleanor will celebrate her 70th birthday in February her husband, son, daughter, son-in-law and grandson. She says she feels blessed to have had such great care from her doctors – and is thankful for each and every day.

Eleanor ClineColon Cancer Survivor




I Can Cope6-8 PM



2015AUGUST “Union’s doctors and staff have

always taken such great care of me.”

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september

At the age of 65, Michael Owens was a healthy and active retiree. In October 2013, during one of his routine checkups, Michael’s doctor found a suspicious lump on the peripheral portion of his prostate. His doctor then sent Michael to see his urologist, where he would have the lump biopsied. That test would verify a stage II diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Michael’s doctors worked together and gave him the choice between surgery and radiation. He elected brachytherapy, a procedure that treats cancer by placing radioactive “seeds” directly into the prostate. This allowed doctors to deliver 25 radiation treatments with little impact on healthy tissue. “I was very fortunate to have minimal side effects with my treatments,” said Michael.

Today, Michael is not only thankful for the early detection, but for the opportunity to be a part of such a great community hospital. Both Michael and his wife are now cancer survivors who have had treatment at Union. “We just feel blessed to have had the right people at the right time in our lives,” said Michael. “Union is such a great community hospital.”

In addition to hiking, Michael enjoys giving back. “I think it’s so important to spread the message of prevention and maintaining your health,” said Michael. “If I can help save one life, I am happy to share my story!”

Michael OwensProstate Cancer

2015SEPTEMBER“If I can help save one life,

I am happy to share my story!”

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I Can Cope6-8 PM



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august 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

october

Labor Day

National Grandparents Day Rosh Hashanah

First Day of Fall

Because of her family history of breast cancer, Bonnie Johnson had been proactive in doing self breast exams on regular basis. But, at age 59, a suspicious lump appeared that would later prove to be breast cancer. “It was strange,” said Bonnie. “I ran into something at work and instead of bruising, a lump popped up. I knew right away I needed to have it looked at.”

Whether you have a family history of cancer or not, the diagnosis can always come as a surprise. ”I was upset at first,” said Bonnie. “But I’m always the funny person. So with the help of my faith, I got through the treatments with humor.”

Bonnie not only endured a lumpectomy, chemotherapy and radiation, she also agreed to participate in a clinical trial. “If I can be a part of something that helps others in the future, I am definitely going to participate.” Although there were a few side effects, Bonnie is proud to have done her part in research designed to further the progress of cancer treatment. With two grown daughters and a granddaughter, she wanted to do something that helped their generations, too.

Today, nearly six years later, Bonnie now brings her story – and her sunny disposition – to others as a peer mentor to newly diagnosed patients. She also enjoys participating in the survivor support groups at Union Hospital. “It’s like family there,” Bonnie said. “I look forward to going, learning, talking to others, and sharing my story. And I always feel better when I leave.”

Bonnie JohnsonBreast Cancer



I Can Cope6-8 PM


2015OCTOBER“I got through this with humor –

and even had the doctors laughing!”

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Annual Race for the Ribbon 5K Run/Walk

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november

Columbus Day Boss’s Day

Halloween

It all started in 2014 with a routine doctor’s visit. Elkton resident Fay Comegys was being treated for a long-term liver issue and needed a scan. But the scan on her liver uncovered a mass on her lung. Doctors also found a separate tumor on the same lung and immediately started her on chemotherapy treatments.

Fortunately, Fay is doing well in treatment and says she couldn’t ask for a nicer place than Union Hospital. From assisting her with transportation to finding just the right wig, Fay can’t say enough wonderful things about Union. She loves having such a great, resourceful and caring community hospital in her area. “I couldn’t ask for better care or a nicer staff,” said Fay. “They really go above and beyond to stay involved with their patients.”

Going to doctors’ appointments and chemotherapy keeps Fay busy these days, but when she has time, she looks forward to going to the senior center and learning new hobbies, such as crochet.

At age 63, Fay reflects on her cancer experience with a grateful heart, and is thankful for all the support of her friends and family. She believes that her positive attitude and taking care of herself are just as important as the medicine and treatment she received.

“I mostly appreciate what other survivors have done to reach out to me, especially when I was first diagnosed,” said Fay. “I had so much to learn, but everyone made me feel like I was not in this alone.”

Fay ComegysLung Cancer

2015NOVEMBER“They really go above and beyond

to stay involved with their patients.”


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I Can Cope6-8 PM


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december

Daylight Saving Time Ends

Veterans Day

Great American Smoke-Out

Thanksgiving Day

Elkton native and long-time resident Richard Funke was not only born at Union Hospital, but he now volunteers there one day each week. At age 78, Richard is a 10-year bladder cancer survivor who began volunteering in the Cancer Resource Center several years ago. But it wasn’t until he was diagnosed with leukemia last spring that he realized what kind of impact he could really have as a volunteer at Union. “I can now talk to the patients with more empathy and understanding,” said Richard. “I try to encourage them and let them know that they, too, can get through this difficult time.”

Richard was diagnosed with leukemia after undergoing a series of tests. “I knew something was wrong because I had lost my appetite and started losing weight – I really just didn’t feel well,” said Richard.

Once diagnosed, it didn’t take long for Richard to decide where he would have his treatment – he knew it would be best for him to go to Union. “Not only was my doctor highly recommended, but as a volunteer at the center, I knew everyone who worked there,” said Richard. “It was a good decision to stay local and go to Union for my treatments.”

After enduring six rounds of chemotherapy and six blood transfusions, Richard now feels back to normal. “There are no longer any traces of the leukemia in my bone marrow, and my blood counts are where they need to be,” said Richard. “I’m walking two-and-a-half miles every day, and am happy to be back at Union as a volunteer.”

Richard FunkeLeukemia Survivor

2015DECEMBER “I’m walking two-and-a-half miles every day,

and am happy to be back at Union as a volunteer.”

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I Can Cope6-8 PM


Chanukah/Hanukkah (first Day)

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

First Day of Winter Christmas Eve Christmas Day

New Year’s Eve

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november 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

january 2016

STUDY TOPIC:Medical Imaging Efficiency – Outpatient CMS Core Measure

Outpatients who had a follow-up mammogram, ultrasound or MRI of the breast within 45 days after a screening mammogram.

IMPORTANCE OF EVALUATION: An assessment of the National Initiative on Cancer Care Quality suggests that 90% of patients should be seen within 3 weeks of an

abnormal screening mammogram for a diagnostic mammogram. Approximately 75% of US women report having at least one screening

mammogram to detect breast cancer. Generally, literature supports a follow-up rate lower than 8% may result in missed cancer

diagnoses. Follow-up rates >14% may indicate unnecessary follow and overutilization of resources. Recommended target = 8% to 14%.

CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION:Inclusion criteria used to determine sample for study: All outpatient and in-patients who received a mammogram or ultrasound within

45 days after an abnormal screening mammogram during calendar year 2013 (CY13) at the Breast Health Center at Union Hospital.

Data from CY13 was reviewed from PenRad™. Sample included patients 18 and older, both male and female.

SUMMARY FINDINGS:The study resulted in an observed CY13 overall mammogram follow-up rate within 45 days of an abnormal screen of 11% (n=6372),

which is within the national benchmark.

2014 CANCER PROGRAMSTUDY OF QUALITY: MAMMOGRAPHY FOLLOW-UP RATES

Standard 4.7: Each year, based on

category, the quality improvement

coordinator, under the direction of

the cancer committee, develops,

analyzes, and documents the

required studies that measure the

quality of care and outcomes for

patients with cancer.

AT UNION HOSPITALCANCER PROGRAM

STUDY TOPIC:Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is one of the most widely used tumor markers worldwide and is usually present only at very low levels

in the blood of healthy adults. Its main application is mostly in gastrointestinal cancers, especially in colorectal malignancy.

The CEA test measures the amount of the protein that may appear in the blood of some people who have certain kinds of cancers,

especially cancer of the large intestine (colon and rectal cancer). CEA measurement is mainly used as a tumor marker to monitor

colorectal carcinoma treatment, to identify recurrences after surgical resection, for staging or to localize cancer spread through

measurement of biological fluids.

The interpretation of post-op CEA dynamics in relation to pre-operative CEA values remains unclear. However, it is believed that early

postoperative CEA level is a better prognostic indicator than is preoperative CEA level in predicting prognosis of patients with curable

colorectal cancer.

IMPORTANCE OF EVALUATION: Determination of standard CEA collection and monitoring for Union patients.

CRITERIA FOR EVALUATION:All primary colon/rectum malignancies diagnosed between 2008-2013.

SUMMARY FINDINGS:A survey of pre-operative CEA documentation was evaluated by the Cancer Committee. Performance was rated and steps were taken

to maintain compliance with the NCCN Guidelines for Treatment of Cancer.

2014 CANCER PROGRAMSTUDY OF QUALITY: COLON CANCER CEA TESTING

Standard 4.7: Each year, based on

category, the quality improvement

coordinator, under the direction of

the cancer committee, develops,

analyzes, and documents the

required studies that measure the

quality of care and outcomes for

patients with cancer.

SUPPORT SERVICES

BREAST HEALTH CENTEROur Breast Health Center makes it easy to schedule and fit a mammogram into your life. Along with a specially trained staff, you will appreciate the comfort and

special conveniences we offer, and patient self-referrals for a mammogram are accepted. Union Hospital is one of the first breast centers nationwide to receive

the distinction by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). We now offer 3D mammography, an incredible new technology which allows

our doctors to see breast tissue in ways never before possible.

CANCER RESOURCE CENTERThe first of its kind in the area, the Cancer Resource Center (CRC) is located at 111 West High St. in Suite 101 of the Union Hospital Medical Professional

Building. Through a partnership with the American Cancer Society, Union Hospital’s CRC is designed to serve as an information resource for the community. The

CRC is staffed by trained volunteers who answer questions about cancer prevention, risk reduction, research, local activities and events, and wigs and scarves

are offered at no charge to those undergoing cancer treatment. The CRC is open Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, call

443-245-4246.

LYMPHEDEMA PROGRAMLymphedema is an accumulation of protein-rich fluid into the soft tissues of the body which leads to swelling, most often in the arm(s) and/or leg(s), and

occasionally in other parts of the body. The Breast Health Center at Union Hospital offers specialized services for the treatment of lymphedema. Our specially

trained and certified physical therapist works closely with you and your doctor to customize an appropriate treatment plan for you.

OSTOMY CLINICThe Ostomy Clinic at Union Hospital offers training, education, and support aimed at improving quality of life for persons who have had ostomy surgery. The

clinic helps ostomy patients be as comfortable as possible and to care for themselves properly to prevent future complications. To make an appointment call

410-406-1344.

OUTPATIENT INFUSION CENTERUnion Hospital’s Outpatient Infusion Center is designed with the patients’ needs in mind. We provide a convenient outpatient setting for patients who require

frequent infusions of medications, including those with central lines. The Infusion Center offers a comfortable and convenient alternative to receiving infusion

services as an inpatient. Patients receive their infusion in a comfortable recliner (beds are available for extended procedures) and may watch DVDs, listen to

music, read or relax.

PALLIATIVE CARE PROGRAMFor patients who have been diagnosed with a chronic illness, maintaining a fulfilling life can be a challenge. Symptoms such as pain, nausea, difficulty sleeping, loss

of appetite and shortness of breath can turn every day into a struggle. But there is help at Union Hospital. Our Palliative Care program can help patients manage

the debilitating symptoms of serious illnesses and improve their quality of life. To learn more, call 410-406-1344.

RADATION ONCOLOGYOur Cancer Program offers radiation therapy in collaboration with Christiana Care Health System. Union Cancer Care is located adjacent to Union Hospital, in

the Union Hospital Medical Professional Building.

UNION HOSPITAL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Main Hospital ................................. 410-398-4000

Toll-Free from Rising Sun, MD ........ 410-658-4757

Toll-Free from Delaware ................. 302-731-0743

TDD ................................................ 410-398-5941

Breast Health Center ...................... 410-392-7075

Cancer Resource Center ................. 443-245-4246

Emergency Department ................. 410-392-7061

Imaging Services ............................ 410-392-7025

Infusion Center ............................... 410-406-1344

Medical Nutrition ............................ 410-392-7055

Medical Records .............................. 410-392-7090

Outpatient Palliative Care .............. 410-406-1344

Outpatient Registration .................. 410-392-7050

Patient Financial Services ............... 410-392-7030

Physician Referral ............................ 410-392-7012

Radiation Oncology ......................... 410-398-4921

Skin Lesion Clinic ............................. 443-674-1265

Wound Care Center ........................ 443-406-1825

NOTES

YOUR PARTNER IN GOOD HEALTH

Union Hospital106 Bow Street

Elkton, Maryland 21921410-398-4000

www.uhcc.com | Find us on Facebook

Photography by Joe Ulrich of Ulrich Photography

Our mission is to provide safe, high-quality health and wellness services to the residents

of Cecil County and neighboring communities.

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