Free breast cancer treatments at Banner Desert
MESA, Ariz. (May 20, 2008) - The Radiation Oncology Department at Banner Desert Medical Center was awarded a $96,000 grant from the Phoenix Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure to provide free care to breast cancer patients who are without insurance or are underinsured.
Applicants who have a primary diagnosis of breast cancer can request funds through the hospital’s grant screening process.
“Most breast cancer patients have no problem with the initial care, as most inpatient procedures such as lumpectomies or mastectomies, are covered by insurance,” said Mary Jo Borgognone, director of Radiation Oncology. “This grant will help patients who need continued outpatient treatments, such as radiation therapy, but cannot pay for it. We hope to share the top-of-the-line continuing care Banner Desert is known for with patients without them worrying about cost.”
David Price, associate administrator for Banner Desert Medical Center, agrees. “We look to share our good fortune with patients who need it most,” said Price. “Our Radiation Oncology unit is recognized as the best outpatient service in the East Valley for cancer care. Now, those who couldn’t previously afford to continue their care have a place to go.”
Current patient, Dawn Williams of Maricopa, said she specifically drives from her home 40 miles away to come to the Radiation Oncology unit at Banner Desert because of the quality of care she has received during radiation treatments.
“I was very nervous the first time I went in but the staff was so comforting, so welcoming, you start to feel completely at ease,” said Williams. “They make you comfortable during a very uncomfortable situation. They are always very organized and always on time, which is very important to me.”
As part of the continuing patient care available through the Komen grant, Borgognone has partnered with Radiation Oncologists Dr. Thomas Taylor, Dr. Irene Taw and Dr. Lauren Stegman, from Arizona Oncology Services, to donate their services free of charge.
“We couldn’t have done this if our physicians and our hospital leaders weren’t so supportive,” said Borgognone. “Together, we hope to help as many patients as possible with this grant.”
About Banner Desert Medical Center
Banner Desert Medical Center is a 549-bed nonprofit hospital, providing a wide range of inpatient and outpatient services for adults and children. Located in Mesa, Ariz., the hospital is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the state.
