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4 PA L M B E A C H G A R D E N S L I V I N G | N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 6 also include plastic and reconstructive surgeons, radiologists, pathologists and cancer genetics experts. Each specialist contributes a different perspective, helping the team consider the full range of appropriate treatment options. Breast surgical oncologists perform procedures such as biopsies, lumpectomies, and other breast cancer surgeries. Medical oncologists oversee treatments that use medications, including chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapies. Radiation oncologists determine when radiation therapy should be included in the treatment plan. Radiologists review imaging, while pathologists examine tissue samples to provide information that helps guide treatment decisions. By reviewing the patient’s diagnosis together, specialists can align their recommendations and develop one coordinated plan. This allows the patient to hear from the appropriate experts, ask questions, and better understand how each part of treatment fits into the larger picture. GUIDANCE FROMDIAGNOSIS THROUGH RECOVERY An essential member of the care team is the oncology nurse navigator. Each patient is assigned a navigator who helps coordinate specialist consultations, additional testing, and other aspects of care. Navigators also provide education, answer questions, and connect patients and families with helpful resources. Their role combines practical coordination with compassionate support, giving patients a consistent point of contact throughout an experience that can otherwise feel complicated. At Jupiter Medical Center, supportive cancer services also include oncology social work, nutrition, rehabilitation, genetics and risk assessment, support groups, and survivorship programs. COORDINATED CARE CLOSE TOHOME Multidisciplinary care offers benefits that extend beyond convenience. When specialists communicate directly and work H earing the words “It’s breast cancer” can be overwhelming. Patients and their families may suddenly find themselves facing unfamiliar medical terms, important decisions, and appointments with several different specialists. Yet advances in breast cancer care have transformed how treatment is planned and delivered. Today, care has moved beyond a “surgery first” approach toward an integrated plan designed around each patient’s individual diagnosis, needs, and goals. “At Jupiter Medical Center, multidisciplinary specialty clinics bring the experts involved in breast cancer care together to evaluate each patient’s case and develop a personalized treatment plan,” says John Rimmer, MD, Breast Surgical Oncologist and Medical Director of Comprehensive Breast Care. “Rather than visiting multiple physician offices over several weeks, patients meet with several specialists in one location, on the same day. This coordinated approach can shorten the time between diagnosis and the beginning of care while helping patients feel more informed and supported.” ATEAM FOCUSED ONTHE WHOLE PATIENT Breast cancer is not one disease, and there is no single treatment plan that is right for everyone. The most appropriate care may involve surgery, medication, radiation therapy, reconstruction or a carefully planned combination of treatments. A multidisciplinary breast cancer team typically includes breast surgical oncologists, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists. Depending on the patient’s needs, the team may EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR – By Sue MacDonald | Photos provided by Jupiter Medical Center – Comprehensive BreastCancerCare MANY SPECIALISTS, ONE COORDINATED PLAN John A.P. Rimmer, MD