Lung Cancer

A team approach to fighting lung cancer at St. Joseph's/Candler

Our facility believes in a collaborative, patient-centered approach to fighting lung and thoracic cancers. Our Thoracic (Lung) Oncology Team brings specialists from various fields to ensure every patient receives personalized and comprehensive care. By combining expertise, innovative programs, and standardized processes, we aim to improve outcomes and guide patients every step of the way.

What is the thoracic oncology team?

The Thoracic (Lung) Oncology Team is dedicated to assessing, planning, monitoring, coordinating, and evaluating cancer care services for patients with lung and thoracic cancers. Meeting quarterly, this team comprises a wide range of medical professionals and allied healthcare experts, including:

• Medical oncologists
• Radiation oncologists
• Surgeons
• Radiologists
• Internists
• Nutritionists
• Patient navigators

This diverse team ensures a comprehensive approach to patient care, from diagnosis and treatment planning to survivorship.

Our goals and initiatives

The Thoracic (Lung) Oncology Team is committed to improving cancer care through strategic goals and groundbreaking initiatives, including:

Standardization and quality control

• Developing consistent educational materials for patients and families.
• Standardizing pathology reports and diagnostic work-ups to ensure accurate and timely diagnoses.
• Creating clear and accessible road maps for cancer care, guiding patients from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.

Lung cancer screening programs

• Implementing early-detection initiatives like lung cancer screening programs, designed to identify cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages.
• Screening guidelines are developed based on the latest National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommendations.

Personalized treatment plans

• Utilizing tumor board meetings to collaboratively develop tailored treatment plans for each patient.
• Creating treatment guidelines for lung and esophageal cancers, ensuring care plans reflect the latest advancements in oncology.

Lung cancer services

Advanced Thoracic Oncology Center

At the LCRP, we have created the most comprehensive program to combat and defeat lung cancer: the Advanced Thoracic Oncology Center. The center is a collaboration of multiple specialists led by Advanced Thoracic Oncology Center Medical Director and Interventional Pulmonologist Dr. M. Douglas Mullins and Thoracic Surgeon Dr. Marc Bailey. 

Rapid Access Clinic

The Rapid Access Lung Treatment Program is a unique initiative for patients with pulmonary abnormalities detected on a scan or those recently diagnosed with lung cancer. This program is a cornerstone of our patient-first approach, ensuring quick access to expert care when it matters most.