UC San Diego Health is expanding its reach to provide better cancer care to more communities. By forming partnerships outside of San Diego, they’re bringing expert oncology services closer to home for many residents.
In North San Diego County, UC San Diego Health has teamed up with Palomar Health. This partnership means more community access to oncology specialists and services like infusion therapy and clinical trials. Patty Maysent, the CEO of UC San Diego Health, emphasizes that the goal is to improve health outcomes for everyone. “We want to enhance patient safety and experience while expanding access to top-notch care,” she says.
To the east, Moores Cancer Center is working with the Eisenhower Lucy Curci Cancer Center. This collaboration provides advanced cancer treatments in the Coachella Valley, enabling patients to benefit from clinical trials and specialized clinics since 2017.
In Imperial County, the Moores Cancer Center is collaborating with the newly formed Imperial Valley Healthcare District. They aim to offer coordinated access to oncology care and clinical trials, so residents don’t have to travel far for advanced therapies.
These partnerships mean a regional network of excellence that combines resources to make cancer care more convenient. The idea is simple: everyone should have access to world-class treatment, no matter where they live.
Clinical trials are crucial for developing new treatments, and Moores Cancer Center is making these opportunities more accessible. According to Matthew Jenusaitis, chief administrative officer of oncology and radiation therapy services at UC San Diego Health, integrating clinical research into community settings allows local patients to join in without long commutes. “We’re making it easier for everyone to be part of the research process,” he notes.
This move not only speeds up medical discoveries but also ensures a diverse group of patients participate, which is essential for improving treatment outcomes across different populations.
The central idea behind the Moores Cancer Center’s expansion is that access to advanced therapies shouldn’t be limited by geography. They are committed to advancing cancer research and providing compassionate care throughout the region.
Recent statistics show that only about 5% of cancer patients participate in clinical trials, partially due to access issues. By bridging these gaps, UC San Diego Health aims to increase that number significantly and improve patient care overall. Partnerships like these symbolize the future of community-focused healthcare, where specialized treatment is available to all.
With this model, UC San Diego Health not only enhances the quality of care but also fosters a community of support, making it a vital part of the healthcare landscape.
