Clinical Trials for Cancer/Oncology Treatment
Clinical trials provide options for cancer patients to test new exploratory treatments that are in the evaluation stage. These trials are designed to further research about cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Many of the effective treatments used in treating cancer today were developed based on the results of former clinical trials. These results are expanding what oncologists know about cancer and resulting in better treatment and prevention solutions with higher survival rates. Participation in a clinical trial will require adherence to certain requirements and eligibility criteria. Ask your doctor about this process for more information about the clinical trials research currently being conducted through Salinas Valley Health.
Cancer Case Conferences (Tumor Board)
This weekly multidisciplinary conference is designed to enhance the quality of cancer care through discussions regarding screenings, diagnosis, work-ups, management and surveillance of cancer sites. Select cases can be reviewed by departmental physician representatives, including but not limited to surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology and radiology. The ultimate goal of this conference is to improve care for our patients who have a neoplastic disease through evaluation and treatment.
Cancer Registry
All cancer patients who have been diagnosed or who have received treatment at Salinas Valley Health since 1985 are included in the Cancer Registry. This data system collects and analyzes information on each patient, including lifetime follow-up care. The Cancer Registry helps our Comprehensive Community Cancer Program adhere to standards established by the American College of Surgeons. The Cancer Registry currently contains over 24,000 cases and more than 5,198 in follow-up that are actively monitored and followed. The Cancer Registry data is used not only at the local level but also is used to study cancer care in Monterey County and is part of the National Cancer Database.
The purpose of the Cancer Registry is to ensure collection and maintenance of accurate data pertaining to cancer patients at Salinas Valley Health. Our staff at the Cancer Registry manages this critical responsibility, including our team of highly skilled and experienced Certified Tumor Registrars (CTRs). These individuals work with physicians, healthcare planners and hospital administrators to maintain ongoing individual patient records. Our CTRs are skilled in management and administration, with a thorough understanding of medical science and the ability to manage data collection, recordkeeping and data analysis pertaining to cancer statistics and information.