Putting Heart Our into Care · - to assemble on a regular basis and review every patient’s...

The Cancer Institute at St. Francis Hospital 2015/2016 Annual Report

The Cancer Instituteat St. Francis HospitalThe Heart Center®Catholic Health ServicesAt the heart of health

Heart

Putting Our

into Cancer

Care

2015/2016


contents

3 Message from Chief Administrative Officer

4 Committee Chair Report

6 About the Cancer Institute

8 Our New Campus

10 National Accreditation

12 Surgical Oncology

14 World Class Cancer Care

18 Community Services

20 Celebrating Life

22 Spiritual Care

24 2015 Accomplishments

26 2016 Accomplishments

32 Moving Science Forward

34 Cancer Registry


St Francis Hospital, The Heart Center®

A Message from theEVP & Chief Administrative OfficerThe Cancer Institute at St. Francis Hospital is having a very real and positive impact on the communities we serve. Our all-inclusive cancer care facility places all the related cancer disciplines under one roof – medical oncology, surgical oncology, infusion therapy, and soon radiation oncology. Our care strategy benefits patients by having their entire medical team working collaboratively to tailor a medical strategy suited to each individual’s needs. Our supportive services assist patients in their cancer journey each step of the way, from our oncology social work-ers, nurse navigators, dieticians, to our pastoral care chaplains, a hallmark of St. Francis Hospital.

Led by distinguished oncologist Bhoomi Mehrotra, M.D., several of our exceptional physicians have been named on Castle Connolly’s “America’s Top Doctors” and New York magazine’s “Best Doctors” annual listings. Our oncology-certified nurses are also recognized for excellence in the care they provide, being part of a team that has earned Magnet® designation by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Magnet® designation is an honor achieved by only seven percent of hospitals in the United States. In December 2015, the Cancer Institute was awarded three years of full accreditation as a comprehensive cancer center by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) - the highest recognition the commission can award a new program.

We’ve also launched a new program to study cancer treatment’s potential effect on the heart. Our new cardio-oncology registry allows us to track patients who are beginning chemotherapy, helping us to monitor, treat, and possibly reverse, any treatment-related heart disorders before they become life-threatening. By mid-year, St. Francis Radiation Oncology will move from its current Garden City location to ourEast Hills campus, bringing all Cancer Institute resources under one roof.

Learning you have cancer can be devastating to a patient and their loved ones. Our mission is to replace fear with confidence, by providing those diagnosed with the same high level of care St. Francis Hospital is long known for in the area of cardiovascular treatment and recovery. That vision is becoming a reality day by day.

My great thanks to Bhoomi Mehrotra, M.D., Director of The Cancer Institute at St. Francis Hospital, as well as our outstanding team of physicians, nurses, administrators, chaplains, staff, and volunteers, for their commitment to our mission. I would also like to personally acknowledge Alan D. Guerci, M.D., CHS President & CEO, for his leadership of Catholic Health Services of Long Island. Finally, I would like to thank Bishop William F. Murphy, for his inspired leadership of Catholic health care on Long Island over the course of his tenure.

Ruth E. Hennessey Executive Vice President & Chief Administrative Officer

message


from Bhoomi Mehrotra, M.D.Director of The Cancer Institute at St. Francis HospitalDirector of Oncology, St. Francis Hospital Committee Chair Report Dear Colleagues,

It is with great pleasure that I present to you the Annual Report of our Cancer Institute. This past year has marked several seminal events in our journey forward. We received the highest award for a new program with the accreditation of our Cancer Institute by the Commission on Cancer. Our oncology nurses, who were part of the Magnet team, achieved a full 100% certification in their specialty. In addition, our multidisciplinary programs in malignant hematol-ogy, thoracic oncology, gastro-intestinal oncology, neuro-oncology, breast cancer, gynecological oncology and other solid tumors have matured and several of them now offer continuing medical education credits for our staff and community healthcare professionals. We expanded access for our patients to receive multi-disciplinary treatments by welcoming our new Division of Radiation Oncology and look with excitement for their new center to open within our Cancer Institute facilities at 2200 Northern Boulevard in 2017. Our supportive services including oncology pharmacy, pathology and laboratory services, imaging services, nutrition counseling, social work-er support, clinical navigation, genetic counseling, pastoral care, psychological support programs, screening programs, and survivorship and palliative care services, have continued to expand to meet the needs to those who have placed their care in our hands. Our services and leadership in community activities have been recognized by many organizations including the American Cancer Society. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that 11.5% (1 in 9) of all adults in the US have been diagnosed with heart disease and 8.5% (1 in 12) of all adults have been diagnosed with cancer. In addition, as we age, the incidence of cancer and heart disease rises and they often co-exist. To face the challenges of our aging population, particularly for those who have co-existent heart disease and cancer, our Cancer Institute, in collaboration with our nation-ally recognized Cardiology program, has initiated a Cardio-Oncology clinical and research pro-gram to evaluate the effects of cancer therapies on the heart and to make every effort to prevent and manage the two illnesses simultaneously. With the advent of novel biological and immunotherapies in the fight against cancer, we will expand the applicability and promise of newer treatments to those with real life co-existent medical problems such as heart disease. Our ability to help navigate the journey of those diagnosed with cancer would not have been possible without the selfless dedication of our staff at all levels, the unwavering support of our administrative leadership and the exemplary generosity of our benefactors. I consider it a privilege to be part of a team that truly ‘puts its Heart in Cancer Care’ and it is my honor to share our Annual Report with you.

message


The Cancer Institute at St. Francis Hospital places all the disciplines of oncology under one roof, inclusive of medical oncology, surgical oncology, imaging services, infusion therapy – and soon, radiation oncology. Our services and unparalleled expertise makes it easier for Long Island patients to get best-in-class cancer treatment where they live and work.

meet our team

We put our heart into cancer care.


Patients are at the center of everything we do at St. Francis Hospital. To better serve a growing population of patients at risk for cancer, the Cancer Institute at St. Francis Hospital underwent an historic expansion at 2200 Northern Boulevard in East Hills. Our 189,000 square-foot facility places all the disciplines of oncology under one roof: medical oncology, surgical oncology, imaging services, infusion therapy, and soon, radiation oncology.

“We wanted to have a facility where patients can be treated with all their doctors in one place, communicating in close contact with each other for the patient’s benefit,” said Bhoomi

Mehrotra, M.D.

At the new facility’s core is a conference center serving as host to multidisciplinary tumor boards, reflecting St. Francis Hospital’s commitment

to providing individualized, continuous care.

“This allows both hospital staff and community doctors from various specialties - along with critical ancillary support services such as genetic counseling, social workers, and nutritionists - to assemble on a regular basis and review every patient’s situation in a prospective manner,” explained Dr. Mehrotra.

All members involved in the patient’s care convene and collaborate to tailor a therapeutic plan suited to each patient’s needs. It’s all about putting the patient first.

about the cancer institute

“A facility where patients can be treated with all their doctors in one place, communicating in close contact with each other for the patient’s benefit.”


about the cancer institute

“A facility where patients can be treated with all their doctors in one place, communicating in close contact with each other for the patient’s benefit.”


The expansion of the Cancer Institute enables St. Francis Hospital to further extend the reach of our extraordinary care in non-cardiac specialties. No detail was overlooked in this modern, serene, patient-friendly environment.

“Being diagnosed and treated for cancer can be an extremely stressful experience. Our mission is to provide the very best treatment in a very calming, reassuring setting,” said Dr. Mehrotra.

Largely funded by private philanthropy, the state-of-the-art facility uses advanced technology, including an interactive touch-screen display that welcomes visitors upon arrival and assists patients in finding their way.

Specialized multidisciplinary teams offer diagnostic, treatment, and support services to people with breast, gynecologic, hematologic, lung, prostate, and other cancers. Our top-notch surgeons provide pre- and

post-surgical care, and patients receive the latest chemotherapy treatments and most advanced radiation therapies, soon to be offered at the East Hills location. Other offerings include genetic counseling and social-work support, strengthening the continuity of care that patients with a cancer diagnosis need.

“Our motto is, We put our heart into cancer care, it’s something we all take very seriously,” said Dr. Mehrotra.

Joining the Cancer Institute is the Ambulatory Surgery Center, multiple other medical practices affiliated with St. Francis Hospital, and St. Francis Diagnostic, an outpatient imaging center.

our new campus

“Our motto is, We put our heart into cancer care, it’s something we all take very seriously.”


our new campus

“Our motto is, We put our heart into cancer care, it’s something we all take very seriously.”


Highest recognition for cancer careIn December 2015, the Cancer Institute was awarded three years of full accreditation as a comprehensive cancer center by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) - the highest recognition the CoC can award a new program.

A hallmark of excellence, accreditation is awarded to cancer care programs that have made a commitment to providing high quality, comprehensive patient-centered care and have met or exceeded 34 CoC quality care standards.

“This prestigious accomplishment not only demonstrates our commitment to continually pursuing excellence in cancer care, but solidifies our reputation as a place to receive quality oncology services,” explained Steve Cabble, Administrative Director of the Cancer Institute.

St. Francis Hospital’s Cancer Institute was recognized for taking a multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer with an integrative network of caregivers: surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists, and other cancer specialists. This provides patients with a specialized team of caregivers trained and committed to support each individual cancer patient’s journey.

“We are all very proud of making this vision a reality,” said Dr. Mehrotra. “The framework we’ve put in place is directly tethered to our growing reputation for providing the best possible cancer care.”

national accreditation

“We are all very proud of making this vision a reality.”


national accreditation

“We are all very proud of making this vision a reality.”


Innovative Surgical OncologyOur team of highly skilled surgical oncologists under the direction of Gary Gecelter, M.D., Chairman of the Department of Surgery, is dedicated to providing patients with innovative treatments. Our surgeons’ deep understanding of the biologies and genetics of cancer enables us to offer a

continuum of surgical solutions for patients.

“We pride ourselves in being responsive to the need of the patient in the whole sense,” said Dr. Gecelter. “No matter the patient’s portal of entry into St. Francis Hospital, they will get the most responsive, multidisciplinary expertise to treat their individualized disease.”

At the forefront of surgical advances, our surgeons specialize in robotic-assisted techniques and the latest minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures. St. Francis is one of the few centers in the country to offer 3D laparoscopy for colorectal cancer. Pioneers in many techniques, including minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer, our surgeons work in multidisciplinary teams to determine the best course of treatment.

“The further we understand the genetics, biology, and immunology of disease, the more we realize that surgery as the first line of treatment is not always the right plan of action,” explains Dr. Gecelter.

As part of treatment, patients receive a comprehensive set of therapies - surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Our mission is to ensure that all patients are evaluated by a system-based multi-disciplinary team that ensures the most efficient sequence of treatments to optimize outcomes.

multidisciplinary approach

“The further we understand the genetics, biology, and immunology of disease, the more we realize that surgery as the first line of treatment is not always the right plan of action.”


multidisciplinary approach

“The further we understand the genetics, biology, and immunology of disease, the more we realize that surgery as the first line of treatment is not always the right plan of action.”


Conveniently located on the North Shore of Long Island, the Cancer Institute at St. Francis Hospital offers comprehensive, world class care close to home. One location for diagnostic imaging, surgical strategies, chemotherapy, and soon, radiation – all under the direction of one dedicated team led by distinguished oncologist, Bhoomi Mehtrotra, M.D. Taken together, patients receive an integrated approach to cancer treatment with St. Francis Hospital’s signature commitment to excellence and compassionate care.

Cancer Care NavigationA cancer diagnosis can be the start of an emotionally and physically challenging journey. Our Cancer Care Navigators provide individualized assistance every step of the way, from diagnosis through survivorship. As specially trained registered nurses, our navigators help patients, their families, and caregivers through their path of care - from coordinating appointments and facili-tating access, to emotional support, to assisting with insurance challenges and follow-up care.

Cancer RegistryAs a Commission on Cancer (CoC) accredited facility, The Cancer Institute maintains a cancer registry, which helps to advance evolving treatments and solutions in cancer care. This information system maintains a digital database of all St. Francis Hospital patients diagnosed with and/or treated for cancer to help us better understand the disease in our local population. Information obtained from these records improves cancer care and provides statistics to the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB), a joint program of the CoC and American Cancer Society (ACS), the largest clinical disease registry in the world. Under the direction of the Cancer Committee, the Cancer Registry team conducts two studies each year to monitor the quality of care provided to cancer patients. The Cancer Registry team also coordinates weekly tumor boards and conferences encompassing all major sites diagnosed and treated at St. Francis Hospital with multidisciplinary physician participation.

Clinical ResearchThrough clinical studies, researchers can better understand how to diagnose, treat, and prevent diseases. Our patients are partners in our discovery. At any given time, the Cancer Institute offers a variety of clinical trials to patients for their voluntary participation. Prior to any clinical trial commencing, it is first reviewed and approved by both the St. Francis Hospital Scientific Review Committee (SRC) and the St. Francis Hospital Institutional Review Board (IRB). The Cancer Institute has met the Commission on Cancer (CoC) clinical trial standard for the past three years.

Genetics CounselingGenes hold a vital key to our understanding of cancer and its underlying causes. Our Cancer Genetics Program helps identify those individuals and families with a hereditary predisposition to cancer. By offering personalized risk assessment and management recommendations, we aim to empower patients to make decisions that will lead to risk reduction and cancer prevention.

world class cancer care


world class cancer care


Inpatient CareThrough thoughtful design, our inpatient unit supports our vision of truly comprehensive cancer care in a supportive and healing space. Patients receive coordinated care from medical oncologists, surgeons, hematologists, immunologists, and an interdisciplinary team of navigators, oncology certified nurses, social workers, and dieticians. St. Francis proudly received Magnet designation for excellence in nursing care for the third year in a row, a testament to our high patient care and satisfaction.

Infusion ServicesOur extraordinary new campus allows us to offer the highest quality, state-of-the-art outpatient care to more people. Designed around patient comfort and convenience, our treatment facility provides specialized, high quality, individualized care to all patients.

Psychosocial ServicesTo cope with cancer, patients need more than medical treatment. That’s why our team of psychosocial support specialists - social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists - is available to all our patients and their families. Our professional counselors help people manage the emotional and social challenges of cancer and its treatments.

Radiation TherapyThe Cancer Institute will soon offer a division of radiation oncology on-site at the East Hills campus. Currently based in Garden City, this service will be staffed by three radiation oncologists known for their expertise in various types of cancer treatment across the tri-state area. The inclusion of an on-site radiation oncology facility will strengthen the continuity of care that cancer patients often need.

RadiologySt. Francis Diagnostic, located adjacent to the Cancer Institute, features advances in precision imaging, including CT, 3T MRI, PET, and diagnostic radiology. Located just steps away from several of our affiliated physicians’ offices, it serves as an added convenience to our patients. Promising new research using MRI will assess the impact of chemotherapy on the hearts of cancer patients. Another exciting study examining how the brain governs the functions of the heart will soon be underway.

Surgical ServicesOffering leading-edge surgery, the Cancer Institute is equipped to provide technologically sophis-ticated surgical care - including minimally invasive and robot-assisted procedures. This technolo-gy combined with the expertise of our surgeons and multidisciplinary teams allows us to perform surgeries that typically required hospitalization to be performed safely on an outpatient basis.


The Women’s CenterThe Women’s Center at St. Francis Hospital brings together an exceptional health care team dedicated to the specific needs of women’s health and education. Our state-of-the-art imaging center–offering breast tomosynthesis digital mammography, aka 3D mammography–is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) in stereotactic breast biopsy, a minimally invasive procedure that is performed with local anesthetic.The Center is also accredited by the ACR for gynecological ultrasound services. St. Francis offers a new prevention program specifically designed to identify women who are at increased risk while fostering further research to understand the specific nature of women’s heart disease.

Nutritional Counseling Oncology Dietitians offer education and support for patients throughout their continuum of care. The development of a personalized nutrition care plan can improve response to therapy and promote recovery. Recipes, healthy meal recommendations, and ongoing support classes are also available post treatment.

Palliative CareOur interdisciplinary Palliative Care Program allows team members to work alongside clinicians who are treating the cancer, to provide care that improves the quality of life for patients as well as their families. The program focuses not only on the physical needs, but also the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of life.

Pastoral CareInspired by St. Francis Hospital’s overall mission, the integration of spiritual, emotional, social, psychological, and physical care are all deemed as necessary components of the healing process. By working collaboratively with oncological health care providers, chaplains provide spiritual care to patients and their families of all religious affiliations.

Cancer CommitteeThe Cancer Committee, which is comprised of board certified physicians from all medical specialities and subspecialties, participates in patient care quality assurance programs and monitors all patient care evaluations included in the Cancer Registry. The committee’s mission is to ensure that the best comprehensive cancer care is provided to all communities served.


In 2015, the Community Outreach Program of St. Francis Hospital marked 26 years of providing community health and wellness programs, and extended its focus on cancer-specific initiatives. Our community outreach is driven by the Cancer Institute’s commitment to providing education, prevention, screening, and access to comprehensive cancer care.

The Outreach Program reached thousands of individuals through a variety of community events to keep people informed about the latest developments in cancer prevention and risk reduction, and offered screenings for breast and prostate cancer. The St. Francis Hospital’s Outreach Bus visited numerous underserved neighborhoods from Queens to Suffolk, offering cardiovascular, BMI, and diabetes screenings. These health screenings educate individuals about the increased risk of colon and breast cancer due to a high BMI or glucose level.

The DeMatteis Center for Cardiac Research and Education also provides support to those dealing with a cancer diagnosis, including, a stop smoking clinic and restorative yoga that focuses on relaxation breathing and gentle mediation.

Every day we see first-hand how our holistic community and psychosocial services strengthen the physical and mental well-being of oncology patients.

Partners in Complementary Care The Cancer Institute entered a partnership with the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center in 2015 to expand health and wellness opportunities to community members living with cancer.Located right next door, the JCC provides patients and families with support to manage the stress, fatigue, and anxiety that is common with a cancer experience.

The Nancy Marx Cancer Wellness Center at the JCC keeps patients active and positive, leading a healthy lifestyle through a variety of nutritional and exercise programs, including yoga, swimming, and full body training. Supportive discussion sessions and educational programming give both patients and caregivers an opportunity to connect with a community of people who are experiencing similar challenges. An annual retreat held at the JCC’s Old Westbury campus provides a “vacation from cancer,” explained Randy Hight, Director of the Nancy Marx Cancer Wellness Center.

One of the program’s highlights has been their “Knitzvah” project, where volunteers hand knitted more than 100 lap blankets for our patients undergoing chemotherapy. “The blanket had a special meaning to me knowing that someone cared when they made it,” said a patient of the St. Francis Infusion Center. “I often get cold during my treatment, and the blanket kept me extra warm.”

As part of the Cancer Institute’s mission to provide comprehensive care, it recognizes the impor-tance of wellness programs offered through the JCC. Our friend Randy Hight puts it best: “Studies have shown that remaining active lessens recurrence and helps people lead the best life possible.”

community services


Lunch under the Tuscan SunMore than 125 cancer survivors and family members filled the DeMatteis Center in Greenvale, NY on June 11, 2016, for the fourth annual Cancer Survivors Day Celebration. The event featured music, food, and fun, as well as an opportunity for attendees to listen to a fellow survivor from the American Cancer Society, who recounted her own story of diagnosis, treatment, and journey

toward a cancer free life.

Wonderful prizes were raffled off to several lucky attendees, including prime seats at sports games, theater tickets – even a week-long stay at a vacation home.

Cancer patient Gustavo Silva of Queens, New York, spoke about the compassionate nature of his care givers, and specifically his doctors,

Drs. Mehrotra and Gecelter. “I pray for both of you every day; that you may continue to do for others what you have done for me.”

Dr. Mehrotra said that assembling best-in-class comprehensive care in one community-based setting is a primary goal of the Cancer Institute. “Our new facility affords many patients the ability to see all their doctors at one location, each working in close contact with one another.”

celebration of life

“Our new facility affords many patients the ability to see all their doctors at one location, each working in close contact with one another.”


“Our new facility affords many patients the ability to see all their doctors at one location, each working in close contact with one another.”

Join us for “Lunch under the Tuscan Sun”Saturday, June 11th, 2016

THE DEMATTEIS CENTER

101 Northern Boulevard, Greenvale, New York(See directions on reverse side)

Registration from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon

Lunch and Entertainment to follow from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m.

Free admission; please RVSP by June 1st.(up to one additional guest per survivor)

Once we reach capacity registration will be closed.

To register call: (516) 622-4599

C O M E C E L E B R AT E L I F E !

100 Port Washington Boulevard, Roslyn, New York 11576Tel: (516) 562-6000 stfrancisheartcenter.com

Please join us for our Fourth AnnualCancer Survivors Day Celebration

The Cancer Institute atSt. Francis Hospital, The Heart CenterCatholic Health ServicesAt the heart of health


Radiation Oncology

®

St. Francis Radiation Oncology

Affiliated with

Sponsored by


Healing through expressionWalking into the Infusion Center at our new campus, visitors will notice a gallery featuring artwork created by cancer patients. “A cancer diagnosis can often be socially isolating. It’s a very stressful time and many inevitably become depressed and anxious,” explained Maria Vitsentzos, M.S.N., RN, A.N.P.-C, Adult Nurse Practitioner at the Cancer Institute. “We offer patients a venue for unleashing their inner creativity, which assists in the therapeutic experience.”

At the Cancer Institute, patients sit side-by-side with Vitsentzos in a private and serene environment to find ways to express their experiences through art. The process of putting water colors and ink on

paper offers a way to communicate difficult emotions and can build self-esteem. “I look forward to coming to the clinic knowing that I’m going to do something creative,” said a patient with metastasized breast cancer. “It helps me relax and I no longer feel the tension and anxiety I once had.”

Care for Mind, Body and SpiritFor people faced with a cancer diagnosis, religion and spiritual beliefs are often an important source of comfort and strength. The Pastoral Care Department at St. Francis Hospital provides spiritual and emotional support to patients, families, and staff. An interfaith team of chaplains serves people of every faith and spirituality, providing a listening ear and a compassionate, non-judgmental presence. We’re there for you, wherever you are, as you are.

“It’s common for people to ask themselves ‘Why me?’ and question who they are as a person now that they have cancer,” says Sister Stella Slonski, CSJ, BCC. “As chaplains, we enter a unique relationship with patients and caregivers on what is often a winding and twisting journey. We care for the whole being of the person.”

St. Francis chaplains are board certified and fully integrated into the fabric of the hospital as profes-sional members of a multidisciplinary healthcare team. In the words of a first-time infusion patient who noticed a wall-mounted religious symbol while experiencing the warmth of our medical staff, “I know I’m going to be safe here.”

“We offer patients a venue for unleashing their inner creativity, which assists in thetherapeutic experience.”

cultivating creativity


The number of cancer treatments delivered at St. Francis has grown over 400% since the Cancer Institute began operating in 2012. With our priority focused on discovering innovative new ways to put patients first, St. Francis made significant progress in 2015.

Recognition• Earned three years of full accreditation by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) - the highest recognition the commission awards new programs. To earn this national accreditation, a cancer program must meet or exceed 34 CoC quality care standards, be evaluated every three years through a survey process, and maintain levels of excellence in the delivery of comprehensive patient-centered care. To receive this high honor so early in our development says much about the level of expertise at our Cancer Institute.

• Received Magnet designation for excellence in nursing care for the third consecutive time. This recognition is the result of a rigorous evaluation that included extensive interviews and reviews of nursing services, clinical outcomes, research, and patient care and satisfaction.

Investment• Opened the St. Francis Hospital Ambulatory Services at the East Hills campus, our largest facility ex-pansion in decades. Anchored by the Cancer Institute, the center also provides patients with a highly convenient, well-coordinated facility capable of fulfilling several related outpatient clinical needs, all under one roof.

• Purchased a state-of-the-art microscope that allows clinicians to share pathology/cytology slides with other practitioners through a secure internal hospital network. This allows for greater communication among our multidisciplinary teams to better facilitate individualized, continuous care.

• Increased staffing for the palliative care department, which helps patients to achieve the best quality of life. Palliative care addresses not only the management of the physical disease, but also the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of life for patients and their families.

• Added a new PET-CT and a 3T-MRI scanner for our new outpatient diagnostic imaging center, located adjacent to the Cancer Institute. These state-of-the-art imaging modalities provide enhanced detailed imaging information that are then read by our team of specialized radiologists and physicians who can provide a more accurate and skillful evaluation.

• Invested in the latest tools in treating lung cancer. The addition of the navigational bronchoscopy uses minimally invasive technology to allow our physicians to locate tumors and lesions in hard to reach regions of the lung, often before symptoms are even evident.

2015 accomplishments


Innovation• Launched the St. Francis secure electronic medical record, called CHS MyChart; a component of Epic, which links all providers together. This provides patients with 24-hour instant access to their medical information. Patients can view lab and imaging results and email questions to physicians and request medication refills or appointments.

• Established a Hepatitis B screening for oncology patients before starting therapy with rituxan. This important screening reduces the risk of liver problems and further complications during treatment.

• Created an electronic psychosocial assessment tool for oncology inpatients. Anxiety and depression are often manifested at various times during cancer diagnosis and treatment, and can dampen the patient’s quality of life. At St. Francis, a cancer diagnosis will trigger a full psychosocial assessment by the Social Work Department to determine the best course of psychiatric services, including individual counseling and support groups.

Facilitation• Expanded our Community Outreach services. The creation of the outreach and community screen-ing tool surveyed the public to obtain feedback for future events. Additionally, our mobile unit now offers cancer screenings by mid-level practitioners.

Collaboration• Addition of the St. Francis Cancer Program to the National Society of Genetic Counselors official listing, the largest association of genetic counselors in the world. For those concerned about hereditary predisposition to cancer, our team is accessible to help patients understand and manage their risk.

Development• Initiated several programs to further enhance our high-quality nursing care, including: • Offering oncology consults for patients currently undergoing oral chemotherapy. This added benefit to the patient helps to identify ways to reduce the side effects of treatment or lower the risk of a recurrence. • Implementation of a cross-training program for nurses to gain enhanced Mediport access competency, vital to administering medications and tests. • Establishing a newly-designed monthly case study competency program initiated by our inpatient oncology nurses.

• Enhanced nutrition services, including: • The addition of food service menus and deliveries for Infusion Center patients; our entire professional staff is wholly committed to providing patients with the finest care possible, down to the food served. • A new lending library, providing patients with such reads as What to Eat During Cancer Treatment by the American Cancer Society. • Added a Certified Dietician Nutritionist to the level of Board Certified Specialist in Oncology (CSO), the first employee throughout the Catholic Health System to attain this level. This specialty is recognized by the American College of Surgeons and the ACPC guidelines.



In 2016, the Cancer Institute continued to build on previous achievements, while maintaining a positive trajectory towards achieving our strategic goals. Individually and collectively, our people possess a single-minded commitment to deliver outstanding results.

Recognition• Received the Excellence Award, recognizing Eileen Dwyer, RN, OCN for nursing excellence in education and clinical practice.

• Achieved and maintained 100% oncology certification of all nurses in the infusion suite.

Investments• Acquired several specialists to augment our Cancer Care Services:

• Hematology/Oncology Wallace Chan, M.D., Attending Physician joined the Cancer Institute, Oncology Associates. Certificated in Internal Medicine, Hematology and Oncology. Named Outstanding Resident Physician for two consecutive years at Forest Hills Hospital. Recognized for excellence in teaching as chief resident physician. He completed his Fellowship at LIJ Medical Center, Monter Cancer Center, Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine.

• Gynecologic Oncology Service Pankaj K. Singhal, M.D., CHS Chairman of Obstetrics & Gynecology/ women’s health initiatives and Chief of gynecologic oncology joined St. Francis Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospital. A multi-disciplinary GYN Tumor Board was established. These conferences bring cancer care specialists together to discuss care management, review national treatment guidelines and research trials, in order to create the best treatment plan for individual patients.

• Thoracic Surgery Albert DiMeo, M.D., Board Certified Cardiothoracic Surgeon, brings the latest minimally invasive procedures and robotic techniques for lung cancer surgery to SFH. He completed his internship, residency and fellowship at New York Weill Cornell Medical Center and New York Presbyterian Hospital.

• Introduced Tomosynthesis (3D) Mammography in July 2016 at the SFH Women’s Center, one of the few facilities in the region to offer this technology. Tomosynthesis has been proven by many studies to increase cancer detection rates, up to 40% for invasive cancers, as well as decrease recall rates and the need for additional views. The Women’s Center has been a pioneer in utilizing the newest technology called “C-View”, which generates 2D images directly from the 3D tomosynthesis data. This allows for improved visualization without increased radiation exposure.



• Acquired the Affirm upright stereotactic biopsy unit, which provides 3D biopsy capability at the SFH Women’s Center. This allows for biopsy of subtle mammographic findings, detecting cancers at their earli-est stage, while improving patient comfort during the biopsy experience.

Innovation• Offered promising new chemotherapy treatments designed to stimulate the body’s own ability to fight cancer. Dr. Mehrotra explains how the regimens work: “They are unique in that they allow the body’s immune system to recognize the tumor cells, which were until then camouflaged.” This revolutionary therapy works better for some types of cancer than for others. Ongoing studies will impact how we treat cancer in the future.

• Established a cardio-oncology registry of patients who are just beginning chemotherapy. Headed by Haoyi Zheng, M.D., a cardiac researcher at SFH, the registry will allow him and his colleagues to track patients and to treat, and possibly reverse heart disorders before they become life-threatening.

• Implemented a web-based solution through Cerner and mTuitive. The current system receives automatic updates when CAP protocols change, and demands completion of all required elements within a synoptic report. It is anticipated that this will facilitate some compliance with CoC Standards on an automated basis.

Facilitation• Expanded our psychosocial services and patient support programs: • Ongoing oncology social worker assessments and supportive counseling visits • Continued distress screening - 223 screens completed in 2016; 101 indicating distress • Oncology summer series: May-August - 13 participants • Nutrition Throughout Your Cancer Journey: Eat & Move As a Survivor • Cancer and the Workplace: Before, During and After Treatment • Planning For Your Future: Advance Directives: Health Care Proxy, Living Will, Power of Attorney and Last Will & Testament; and Medicaid • Annual programs • Look Good Feel Better - Monthly program - 14 participants in 2016 • Restorative Yoga - 23 participants in 2016 • Connections Peer Support Program - 4 new registrants in 2016• Collaboration with the JCC: • Knitting for a Cause - JCC volunteers knitted blankets for Infusion Center patients • Genetics Education - LeAnn McCoy presented about BRCA at a JCC community gathering • “Stronger than Cancer” 5K Run - SFH team participated on May 22 • Adelphi Breast Cancer Peer Support – Produced flyer and distributed to patients.



• Encouraged participation in the annual women’s health seminar held at the Women’s Center: • Genius 3D Mammography: A Better Mammography • Breast Cancer Screening Technology • Colon Cancer Prevention and Early Detection: You Have Options

Collaboration• Entered a partnership with Life Infusions, a concierge specialty pharmacy, which facilitates the process of obtaining authorization and co-payment information for specialty medications. If an excessive insurance co-payment amount is identified, the patient can be enrolled in an appropriate co-payment assistance program. This streamlines the process of procuring specialty medications for patients and increases the availability of the Nurse Navigator to address more primary clinical needs of patients

• Launched a healthy living program for cancer survivors, in partnership with the JCC. The program, consisting of exercise and nutritional education, was developed in response to a survey conducted during Survivorship Day to address the concerns of patients transitioning into survivorship. • Expanded our oncology nursing community and unit based activities and partnerships: • “Stronger Than Cancer” 5K Run - Collaboration with the JCC in support of the Nancy Marx Cancer Wellness Program • Relay For Life – Port Washington event; collaboration with the ACS to support cancer patients and survivors • Cancer Survivors Day – Our annual “Celebration of Life” luncheon • Making Strides Against Breast Cancer – Collaboration with the ACS to support breast cancer research • Lustgarten Foundation Walk – To support pancreatic cancer research • Blue Ribbon Run – To support prostate cancer research • Care for the Caregiver - Collaboration with the Haller Foundation

Development• Strengthened the quality of our oncology nursing services: • Initiated a yearly oncology certification exam for all RNs and completed testing for all clinical nurses. • Increased clinical ladder status for professional development - CN3 & CN4 from 61% to 65%. • Revised oncology education for employee orientation: “Care of the Oncology Patient”. • Received acceptance of poster abstract titled “Pre-Initial Telephone Call Abstract to Reduce Patient Anxiety” to be presented at the ONS National Conference in May 2017 and at the Magnet Conference in October 2017. • Revised chemotherapy administration policy approved by P&T and Med Safety Committees.


• Integrated art therapy into the Palliative Care program to enhance well-being and improve quality of life for patients. Creating art is a therapeutic experience and can assist with adapting to stress during times of health-related fear and anxiety. The creative process can be emotionally restorative and can ease the expression of deep emotions about illness that are not easy to talk about. Self-esteem and pride is fostered through the displaying of patient artwork on the clinic’s Art Exhibit.

• Increased the availability of Pastoral Care services for patients, families and the staff 5 days a week. Quality improvements include: • Chaplains sees all new patients, adding their spiritual assessment in Epic and records all follow-up visits. • A Healing Blessing Prayer was written and put on a bookmark that is given to all patients. • “Selected Prayers for Health and Recovery” written by NY Board of Rabbis is given to all new Jewish patients. • Prayers and supportive materials are available for all religions. • Pastoral Care provides a monthly debriefing for the nursing staff at the request of their Unit Based Council. Some topics include: How do you care for yourself, how do we cope with the death of our patients, how do you not work 24/7, how do you balance being caring and compassionate and letting go of the patients and families at the end of the day, how do you balance work life and your personal life. Feedback from the staff has been positive.


• Enhanced several quality improvements for our nutrition services: • Julie Ceyhan, RD, CDN, CSO passed exam for Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition, March 2016. • Attended the 2016 Oncology Nutrition DPG Symposium, Taking Your Practice to New Heights!, April 28-30, 2016, in Glendale, Arizona (Joan Fine, RD, CDN & Julie Ceyhan, RD, CDN, CSO). • Survivorship Day 2016 – Obtained donated food-based raffle gifts for all attendees; opera singing by Stefani Pappas, RD, CDN. • Health Fair, DeMatteis Center – Registered dietitians represented the Cancer Institute; food demo, posters/handouts and nutrition strategies for cancer prevention. • Oncology Nutrition Lending Library – 30 cookbooks in circulation. • Health-e-Recipes Binder – Copies of recipes are available for patients in the Oncology Associates waiting room. • Contributed to grant proposal writing to develop community programs:

The Care Cookshop • Grant received by The Junior Coalition of The Manhasset Women’s Coalition • Free program for teens who have family or friends affected by cancer• Empowers teens to help their loved ones through healthy eating• Led by a professional chef and Oncology Dietitians

Surviving Women’s Cancers Through Nutrition and Exercise• Grant received by Oncology Nursing Society Foundation in partnership with the JCC• Free 12 week series for breast and gynecological cancer patients• Weekly nutrition group lecture led by Oncology Dietitians and concurrent physical activity classes led by a Certified Oncology Exercise Physiologist


Improving Care, Improving LivesLong recognized as a national leader in cardiac research, St. Francis Hospital is continuallyexpanding its research portfolio at the Cancer Institute as well. Clinical research trials are vital to discovering better ways to prevent, treat, and cure cancer.

The opportunity to participate in trials is one of the benefits of treatment at St. Francis Hospital. Together with the help of our patients, clinical trials help deepen our knowledge base and increase the potential to discover new therapies. By studying the side effects of current treatment and focusing on improving the life of those living with cancer, clinical trials are critical for translating scientific discoveries into improved cancer treatments.

The Cancer Institute has proudly met the clinical trial standard for the past three years as set forth by the Commission on Cancer (CoC). Current trials underway include:

• A cardiotoxicity and cardiac imaging study that is providing significant insights into possible undesirable effects on the heart of patients being treated with chemotherapy. Nearly 100 patients have participated in this study since it launched in 2014.

• Research aimed at discovering new information about the treatment course and responses of patients living with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

• A study that will evaluate the effects therapies may have in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) patients who are about to start their treatment.

moving science forward

“Clinical research trials are vital to discovering better ways to prevent, treat, and cure cancer.”


“Clinical research trials are vital to discovering better ways to prevent, treat, and cure cancer.”


2015 Statistical Summary of Registry DataThe Cancer Registry at St. Francis Hospital is an integral part of the cancer program. The Registry’s computerized information system is designed for the collection, management, and analysis of data for all cancer patients. The data collected includes information on primary site, stage of disease, treatment modalities, current patient status, and basic demographic information. A detailed annual follow-up system has a 90% success rate and yields end-results on disease status, treatment and survival.

Total Cases for 2015 = 1,815 Total Analytic = 1,269 Total Non-Analytic = 546

2015 Cancer Cases Chart

cancer registry activity

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400

Analytic Cases

Non-Analytic Cases

1269

546

Class of Case

25%

20%

15%

10%

5%

0%

24%

12%10% 9% 9%

6% 5% 5%3% 3% 2% 2%

10%

Breast

Blood & Bone Marrow

Bronchus

Prostrate

Colorectal

Lymphatic

System

Pancreas

Bladder

Brain & CNSGYN

Kidney

Stomach

All Other Cancers

Analytic refers to cases for

which the hospital provided

the initial diagnosis of cancer

and/or for which the hospital

contributed to first course

treatment, if those cancers

were diagnosed on or after

the hospital’s Reference Date

and are diseases the CoC

requires to be abstracted.

The remaining cancer

patients a hospital serves are

considered Non-Analytic.


Physician MembersBhoomi Mehrotra, M.D, Director of Oncology and of

The Cancer Institute; Cancer Committee Chair

Dilip V. Patel, M.D., Director of Malignant Hematology

Gary Gecelter, M.D., Chairman, Department of Surgery

Mitchell Chorost, M.D., Director, Surgical Oncology

Jay Bosworth, M.D., Director of Radiation Oncology

Lawrence Durban, M.D., Thoracic Surgery

Scott J. Sherman, M.D., Chief of Radiology

Carolyn Birnbaum, M.D., Women’s Imaging Center

Ana Anagnostopoulos, M.D., Chair,

Department of Pathology through April 2016

Jeffrey Hamilton, Chair,

Department of Pathology as of April 2016

Ronald J. Gulotta, M.D., VP Medical Affairs &

Chief Medical Officer

Marvin J. Tenenbaum, M.D., Associate Medical Director

& Chairman of Medicine

Richard Johnson, M.D., Director of Neurosurgery

Kenneth Kahaner, M.D., Psychiatry

Eugene Rubach, M.D., Cancer Liaison Physician

Joseph Pipala, M.D., Quality Improvement Coordinator

Rajasree Roy, M.D., Cancer Registry Quality Coordinator

Anne Vinokur, M.D., Radiation Oncologist

Wallace Chan, M.D., Hematology/Oncology

George Zervos, M.D., Hematology/Oncology

Rita Weiss, M.D., Hematology

Rick Madhok, M.D., Neurosurgery

Felix, Badillo, M.D., Director Urology

Non-Physician MembersAnna Leah Apil, RN, Nurse Manager, 2W

Gilbert Baerga, Oncology Administrator

Anna Baracchini, RN, AVP, Performance Improvement

Heidi Bentos-Pereira, RN, OCN, Clinical Nurse Specialist

Teresa Birnbaum, RN, Patient Navigation

Steven Cabble, Director, Cancer Institute & Pharmacy

Ann Cella, RN, VP, Patient Care Services

Julie Ceyhan, RD, CSO, Oncology Nutrition

Samantha, Conti, LCSW, OSW-C, Oncology Social Worker

Patricia Daye, VP Ambulatory Services

Eileen Dwyer, RN, OCN, Nurse Manager, Infusion Unit

Mary Elbert, Director, Medical Staff Affairs

Karla Gaynor, CTR, Cancer Registry

Sister Pauline Gilmore, Pastoral Care

Elaine Halloran, Director, Care Management & Social Work

Ruth Hennessey, EVP & Chief Administrative Officer

Sherly Jacob-Perez, RN, Research Nurse

Laura Liberto-Sosa, Admininstrative Secretary

Jennifer Logiudice, Administrator, CHS, Oncology

Dawn Manuel, Director, Physical Therapy

Lee Ann McCoy, MS, CGC, Genetic Counselor

Sister Katherine Murphy, CNS, Nursing Education

Donna Rebelo, RN, AVP, Patient Care Services

Christina Sabatino, RD, CSO, Oncology Nutrition

Diana Salta, LCSW, Asst., Director Care Management

Sister Stella Slonski, Pastoral Care

Adrienne Thomas, CTR, Cancer Registry Manager

Dawn Tropeano, RN, American Cancer Society

Julia Vinsky, Director, Prevention, Research & Education

Maria Vitsentzos, RN, ANP-BC, Palliative Care

Ann Way, ANP-C, Research Nurse

Patricia Zant, RN, OCN, Oncology Nurse Navigator

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400

2016 cancer committee



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