University Hospitals Ireland Cancer Center believes in teamwork in the fight against cancer. This means experts from across the medical field working together to design the best possible treatment plan for each patient. It also means being a partner in research to develop the latest cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment options, and then passing those on to the people we serve.

At Ireland, no one fights cancer alone. We believe in treating each patient as an individual with a specific set of needs—not just another person with cancer. The moment a patient is diagnosed and enters our hospital for care, he or she becomes part of a team with one goal: to cure cancer.

Our multidisciplinary teams consist of experts in the fields of surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiology/radiation therapy and pathology. Professionals in specialties such as gastroenterology, gynecology, neurosurgery and the Center for Human Genetics also play a role depending on the type and location of a patient’s cancer and his or her health history.

These physicians meet regularly to review a patient’s case. They discuss care and treatment options and come up with the best plan to fight that person’s cancer. The patient is kept informed of their situation at all times.

Working with our team of doctors is a host of professionals in related fields. Oncology nurses provide compassionate care throughout a patient’s treatment. They also work closely with the patient’s family to share knowledge and support.

Social workers and experts in psychological and behavioral medicine seek to boost a cancer patient’s sense of wellbeing and inner strength and to encourage communication between patient and loved ones. Nutritionists lend vital information about the foods necessary to build physical strength and support the immune system.

Together, these professionals share their expertise to bring healing and hope to a cancer patient.