David E. Cohn, MD, MBA, chief medical officer at The James, says the diagnostic center offers immediate community-wide patient access to cancer providers for anyone with a suspected cancer, especially those in communities where access to health care is limited and has become even more challenging due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Open daily, the center provides a platform for expert evaluation and access to the appropriate diagnostic testing so that a timely and precise cancer diagnosis can be made in a low-risk environment. Patients may self-refer to the center or be referred by a physician, and visits can be virtual or in-person, depending on the patient’s preference.
The center is staffed by a team of advanced practice professionals and nurses who have expertise in oncology. The team is overseen by physicians with oncology experience and expertise. Center staff first identify and prioritize patient needs and concerns, and then coordinate appropriate testing and evaluation on behalf of the patient at facilities within The James and the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. Follow-up care is also coordinated with a specialized, multidisciplinary team at The James if a cancer diagnosis is made.
“COVID-19 has limited and changed access to health care across the country and the world,” says Cohn, who also is a gynecologic oncologist and member of the Translational Therapeutics Program at the OSUCCC – James. “Having timely access to providers is a very real concern. We want to ensure that anyone with a suspected cancer can get a timely, accurate diagnosis so potentially life-saving care is not delayed unnecessarily.
“Navigating a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be stressful enough during ‘normal’ times — adding the uncertainty and fear of the COVID-19 pandemic threatens to make it truly overwhelming,” he adds. “We want the community to know we are here to help, and patients should feel safe turning to us for testing and cancer care. That starts with being connected to the right experts and the right tests to get answers to guide treatment.”
To connect with the Cancer Diagnostic Center or schedule another appointment, call The James Line at 614-293-5066.