2007 Radiation Oncology Report

2007 was another busy year in Radiation Oncology.  A stereotactic body frame was purchased and training for staff occurred in July.  This equipment will enable treatment to be provided with greater precision, particularly in specific cancers of the lung and chest wall.  This is an example of how the Willmar Cancer Center continues to be on the cutting edge of technologic advances which allow for improved care for our patients.

Our radiation oncologist, Dr. John H. Ling, played a key role in the survey of our cancer program by the American College of Surgeons in July.  This survey looks at all aspects of cancer care provided.  The Willmar Cancer Center was granted a 3-year accreditation and several areas were commended for exceptional compliance with the standards.

In 2007, 331 patients were treated at Rice, coming from 17 counties in West Central and Southwest Minnesota. This statistic shows that the Willmar Cancer Center continues to play a significant role in providing treatment for this area and allows patients to receive treatment close to home.  The ability to sleep in their own bed and continue as many of their routine activities as possible is very important to our patients.  In 2004, we began measuring patient satisfaction with a goal of reaching the 90th percentile overall.  While we have not achieved the percentile rank goal, we have consistently shown mean scores well above 90 which compares very favorably with our peers.

2007 ended with very exciting news for radiation oncology!  The boards of both Rice Memorial Hospital and Affiliated Community Medical Centers have approved the formation of a joint venture, Willmar Medical Services, which will result in the consolidation of medical and radiation oncology services at Rice.  Plans are underway to finish a portion of the 1972 wing of the hospital which was designated for a cancer center at the time of the remodel and building project completed in 2006.  Combining services at a single location will provide a better treatment experience for patients – another step in providing optimal care locally.

Teri Beyer
Associate Administrator, Diagnostic & Chronic Disease Services
Rice Memorial Hospital