Meet the Team

Obtaining your cancer care from a medical team that treats a high volume of patients with your specific cancer type has its advantages – namely, successful patient outcomes. Studies show that physicians who treat large numbers of patients with a specific disease achieve better patient outcomes.

Hoag’s expert medical team and higher than national figure survival rates are just two reasons why the majority of patients diagnosed at Hoag remain at Hoag for treatment. Hoag also has specialized plastic surgeons on staff who are experts in breast reconstruction for patients who undergo mastectomy.

Medical oncologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer through the use of chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy. If you are going through treatment, your medical oncologist will play an important role in your treatment plan.

Hoag has an exceptional team of experienced and caring medical oncologists who offer specialized care for those diagnosed with breast cancer.

Radiation oncologists specialize in radiation therapy. At Hoag, all of our radiation oncologists are board certified by the American Board of Radiology. They will discuss the role of radiation therapy as part of a patient’s treatment plan. Visit Hoag Radiation Oncology for details about Hoag’s radiation oncology team and services.

Hoag offers a full spectrum of breast care support services, including one-on-one consultation and educational support through Hoag’s breast care nurse navigators. Your nurse navigator will provide helpful information and resources for you. This type of personalized support is a unique facet available at Hoag that brings knowledge and comfort to patients.

Your nurse navigator is committed to providing a smooth and coordinated process of care, while giving you the information and support you need to make decisions about your treatment.
She is here to:

• Answer your questions
• Listen to your concerns
• Help with referrals
• Be an advocate on your behalf

Your nurse navigator will assist you through Hoag’s comprehensive breast cancer program. They will serve an important role as facilitator to guide for you, answer questions and provide support through each phase of treatment.

Hoag offers clinical social workers as a support to you during your breast cancer journey. This caring and professional team provides one-on-one support, and directs you, or family and friends, to helpful resources within Hoag and the community. Hoag’s social workers can be reached at 949-536-7332.

Hoag Family Cancer Institute provides a dedicated team of genetic counselors that offer risk assessment counseling and genetic testing to individuals with a personal or family history of breast cancer. Approximately 400 new patients are seen each year through the Hereditary Cancer Program.

Hoag’s Nutrition Services provides comprehensive nutrition counseling and support to breast cancer patients and survivors. Denise Lohman, RD is dedicated to helping patients meet their nutritional goals and understand the valuable relationship between good nutrition and health.