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French did what most people would do; he set out to get a second opinion. "I did my due diligence, and even visited other cancer centers. It became clear that MIMA Cancer Center was the right place for me: the technology was more advanced, I felt confident in the expertise of the physicians, and I wouldn't have to uproot my life, be out of town and out of my support system," says French.
Technology made all the difference for Dennis. He was impressed with the 3D radiation capabilities of the Varian Trilogy™ -- the technology used at MIMA Cancer Center that enables image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT). This technology gives physicians the ability to precision-target the exact area of a tumor and not only provide treatment, but treatment with no damage to surrounding tissues. It is so precise that it can even accommodate for a patient's breathing during treatment so that it always just targets disease.
"This technology has given us incredible versatility in cancer treatment, particularly prostate cancer," says Dr. Todd Scarbrough, medical director of the MIMA Cancer Center. Its exciting to give patients an option that virtually eliminates any side effects - particularly those that men with prostate cancer fear the most such as ED, incontinence and rectal damage. We're curing men everyday and they are remaining cancer free...living their lives, going to work, and playing golf all during treatment!" adds Dr. Scarbrough.
Dennis French agrees. "It's amazing what modern radiation can do. I had cancer and I was getting treatment, so I was a little tired sometimes, but I continued to participate in all the activities of my life," says French. "My care was top-notch and and Dr. Scarbrough listened to my needs. It took only 30 minutes a treatment for 9 weeks and I was done! I can't say enough good things about my experience there," he said. As one of the first patients to be treated at MIMA Cancer Center in 2003, Dennis is today active, working, and happily married, with no side effects from treatment and most importantly, cancer free.
Dr. Lee Scheinbart, a medical oncologist with MIMA Cancer Center says the approach to patient care has changed dramatically. "What makes our center such a benefit to our patients is the services they receive from an entire team of professionals that collaborate on their care," says Dr. Scheinbart. "From the primary care physician to the specialist (such as the Urologist in Dennis' case), to medical oncologists, radiologists, radiation oncologists, case managers and technical professionals, we meet regularly to consult with each other about the patient and together make decisions. In this way, patients receive a thorough treatment plan from a large number of professionals that addresses medical, social and emotional needs," adds Dr. Scheinbart. MIMA also hosts guest lecturers from leading medical centers and this dialogue improves the skills of the team, as well as fosters relationships for outside consultation.
MIMA Cancer Center manages a large infusion center with highly trained pharmacy technicians, nurses and medical assistants all under the doctor's supervision to provide state-of-the-art drug treatments, even participating in clinical trials for drugs under development in the fight against many types of cancer. Similarly, the radiation facilities are some of the most advanced in the US, with clinicians and scientists from leading academic and community cancer centers across the globe visiting the center on a routine basis to observe and learn about innovative new technologies and techniques being implemented at MIMA.
"By receiving care at the MIMA Cancer Center, with its complete range of specialists and treatment options, our patients can remain close to home and receive comprehensive care," said Dr. Scheinbart.
"Advances in chemotherapy and radiation have saved many lives. Science and technology will continue to find new solutions to tough medical challenges," says Dr. Scarbrough. "We feel that by offering patients the most skilled physicians, combined with the most advanced drugs and technology, we have a winning combination that gives patients the best hope for a longer life, and an easier time during treatment. We want everyone in Brevard to know that we are here providing state-of-the-art cancer treatment in Melbourne - allowing you to remain in the comfort of your own home near family and friends."
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