Medical Oncology and Infusion Services
Medical Oncology
In the last five years, at least 70 new anti-cancer agents have been approved
by the FDA. With continued advances and breakthroughs in targeted drugs
and immunotherapy as well as new combinations of anticancer drugs, the
role of the medical oncologist remains a critical one.
Medical oncology is essential to Hoag Family Cancer Institute’s comprehensive
and multidisciplinary cancer programs. Hoag’s medical oncologists
participate in sitespecific tumor boards, oncology grand rounds, and other
events hosted by Hoag Family Cancer Institute.
As cancer therapies become more personalized, patients receiving cancer
treatment at Hoag have access to the newest treatment options including
immunotherapies and precision treatments, which are guided by the results
of their tumor profiling as part of Hoag Family Cancer Institute’s
Precision Medicine Program. If an oncology patient can benefit by a tr
eatment that is not available at Hoag, medical oncologists guide patients
to the right treatment in a timely manner.
Hoag Family Cancer Institute’s Developmental Therapeutics Program,
in alliance with USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, has opened new
treatment options for patients with advanced disease through phase Ia,
Ib, and phase II clinical trials. This program also includes a specialized
research pharmacist. These new agents, which are more targeted and, in
many cases, take advantage of the patient’s own tumor genomic profile,
are available on a very limited basis and typically only at academic medical
centers. Trials can be disease site specific or applicable to multiple
different cancers based on the genetic target. Fifteen phase I and II
clinical trials opened at Hoag in 2017 with 18 patients enrolled. For
a current list of open trials, please contact Leila Andres, M.S., at 888-862-5318.
Hoag Infusion Center
OVERVIEW
With locations at the Patty & George Hoag Cancer Center in Newport
Beach as well as at Hoag Cancer Center Irvine, the Hoag Infusion Center
provides compassionate and convenient care to oncology patients. The team
works closely with the patient’s referring physician to ensure care
is seamless and coordinated.
A specialized team of nurses, PCAs, and pharmacists are skilled in administering
IV chemotherapy, antibiotics, and intravenous immunoglobulin treatment
(IVIG) as well as the supportive care that accompanies these therapies
including hydration, nausea medication, electrolytes, and transfusion
of blood and blood products. Additional services for oncology patients
include central line care, central line education, and chemotherapy education.
Rapid Care is available for patients whose care can be delivered in 30
minutes or less, which typically consists of lab draws, central line dressing
change, or central line care.
Clinical trials are available at the Hoag Infusion Center in Newport Beach
as part of Hoag Family Cancer Institute’s clinical research office
in alliance with USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. Hoag’s
infusion nurses are specially trained to take care of patients who are
enrolled in a clinical trial, and work in partnership with Hoag’s
clinical research coordinators as well as the referring physician.
LOCATION AND HOURS
Hoag Infusion Center, Newport Beach is located within the Patty & George Hoag Cancer Center. It is open
Sunday- Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Hoag Infusion Center, Irvine is located within Hoag Cancer Center Irvine at Hoag Health Center Irvine.
It is open Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Saturday from
8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
TEAM
Hoag’s infusion nurses represent a variety of nursing backgrounds
including cardiac, pulmonary, emergency and critical care medicine. All
are Chemo Bio Certified by the Oncology Nursing Society, and most of Hoag’s
infusion nurses are Oncology Certified Nurses (OCN). The team continues
to strive toward its goal of 100% OCN certification. At least 80% of Hoag’s
infusion nurses have BSNs. Two certified patient care assistants provide
support including venipuncture proficiency at the Infusion Centers in
Newport Beach and Irvine. A pharmacist who specializes in oncology is
on-site and closely integrated with the Infusion Center team, providing
dedicated expertise and knowledge of a growing list of cancer drugs and
supportive therapies.
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND EQUIPMENT
The department houses a Complete Blood Count machine, which provides the
patient’s count in under two minutes, saving the patient up to 40
minutes of wait time prior to receiving chemotherapy. Vein finders and
Ultrasound Guided IV Start reduce or eliminate the number of unsuccessful attempts.
SUPPORT AND EDUCATION
The Infusion Center prioritizes patient education as well as education
for family members or friends. During the patient’s first visit
to the Infusion Center, the nurse allocates an extra hour for education
on their treatment and possible side effects as well as time for questions.
A translation machine ensures each patient receives education and information
in his or her primary language.
Hoag infusion nurses are afforded the time to develop relationships with
patients to ensure they are receiving the support they need including
referrals to Hoag Family Cancer Institute’s range of classes, workshops
and other support services. Every infusion chair is equipped with new
televisions and headsets, providing an extra level of comfort and care
to patients.
When concerns or questions arise after hours, patients may call the Oncology
After Hours Support Line to speak with an oncology nurse. The line is
free of charge and available during non-business hours including holidays.
For more information call:
949-722-6237