How do we do that at Clinic Cancer Care?
We work with pediatric centers nationally recognized for their expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood cancers. Seattle Childrens is one of those centers. It is a part of the formal affiliation we have with SCCA (Seattle Cancer Care Alliance) although our working relationship has been over many years.

What is the value of a Pediatric Center to children in Montana?
At diagnosis: It brings a team of experts (surgeons, pathologists, oncologists, social workers, nurses, etc.) all trained specifically in the child with cancer. They recognize the difference between children and adults with cancer – in the disease itself, how it impacts the patient and the patient’s family, in the treatment and in the support that is needed.

Treatment decisions: Families become part of the team choosing which treatment is best for their child. Research trials may be options that would otherwise not be available.

During Treatment: The affiliation with Seattle Childrens allows the child to receive as much treatment as possible closer to home while achieving the same level of care that would be received if they chose to stay in Seattle for all treatments.

After Treatment: The child and the family must now adjust to the changes that the diagnosis and treatment brought to their lives. The expertise that is shared by the pediatric team coordinating care can assist in the long term results of treatment and the new life experiences.

What does the Clinic Cancer Care/ Pediatric team look like?
Petra Messick,MD and Nancy Maynard,MD are pediatricians that have worked along with Russ Geyer, MD Clinical Director of Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology at Seattle Childrens. They work to assure a high level of coordinated care.

Jeff Stephenson, MD is a radiation oncologist with pediatric training at St Judes and with pediatric experience in Great Falls.

Nursing staff trained in the provision of pediatric chemotherapy and biotherapies through continuing education at Seattle Children's Hospital

Anesthesia and conscious sedation available onsite at Clinic Cancer Care for special procedures and imaging procedures.

Social worker team available for services to patients and family: experienced in working with pediatric cancer patients and with pediatric intensive care experience.

Support groups for families of pediatric patients.

Communication between Pediatrics, Clinic Cancer Care, Seattle Childrens, and SCCA.

An environment where the patient and family remain the top priority.