Oncology Team

The Schwab Family Cancer Center (SFCC) offers a complete range of oncology services and is led by some of the region’s most experienced medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and surgeons.

Oncologists

Schwab Family Cancer Center physicians are active in research and participate in sophisticated nationwide clinical trials, so you have access to the newest approaches to treatment. The experienced staff at the SFCC works together on every aspect of diagnosis and treatment to provide seamless continuity and coordination of care.

In addition to our staff and our experienced board-certified physicians, the SFCC earned accreditation as a Comprehensive Community Cancer Program. This recognition, granted by the American College of Surgeons, assures you that the SFCC meets nationally recognized care standards in the screening, detection, and treatment of cancer. The SFCC offers leading edge technology, personalized treatment options, and a caring, experienced staff.

Nurse Navigator

The Schwab Family Cancer Center nurse navigator is an experienced certified oncology nurse who is specially trained to help you understand your cancer diagnosis and treatment options, coordinate communication between you and your care team, and connect you with valuable resources in the community. The nurse navigator is available to assist with anything you need.

Nurses

Schwab Family Cancer Center  nurses are a vital part of the team and provide the high-quality care that you need. With skill, compassion, and respect, SFCC nurses begin and end their shift ensuring your needs are met. Many nurses on staff are certified oncology nurses. In obtaining this certification, they have demonstrated a detailed understanding of understanding cancer care.

A new cancer diagnosis can be frightening, but our nurses will be with you every step of the way and help you make informed decisions about your treatment. Routine medication education is also provided by our nursing staff.

Radiation Therapists

Schwab Family Cancer Center radiation therapists use the latest radiation therapy equipment to assist in the delivery of radiation. Working closely with the Radiation Oncologist, Medical Physicist, and Dosimetrist, these individuals ensure safe and effective delivery of radiation treatment. All of our radiation therapists are certified and have their license to provide care.

Dosimetry and Physics Staff

Our dosimetry and physics staff are members of the radiation oncology team who assist the Radiation Oncologist with treatment planning. They design the radiation treatment plan to promote the most powerful dose of radiation to the treatment area with the least amount of side effects to healthy organs and tissues.

Social Workers

Schwab Family Cancer Center social workers are an important part of the interdisciplinary team and serve as advocates for you. They provide supportive services to both you and your family, and can connect you to other UPMC Western Maryland services or community resources.

Our patients often experience stress and anxiety, which can disrupt treatment plans and affect the outcome of care. The SFCC social workers use the Distress Thermometer, developed by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), to measure your distress in a similar way to a pain scale–using a scale of zero to 10, with 10 being the most. This screening tool asks about the parts of your life where they are experiencing problems so that appropriate referrals can be made to help alleviate the stress. You are encouraged to use the tool frequently and talk with your healthcare team to manage your concerns.

Support Staff

Our Secretaries, Receptionists and Unit Assistants will offer you and your loved one assistance while you’re at Schwab Family Cancer Center. Whether you’re a new patient, you’re receiving chemotherapy or immunotherapy, or you’re visiting a family member, they will guide you in the right direction and answer any questions you may have.

Pharmacy Staff

Specially trained oncology pharmacists work in the SFCC to review and oversee preparation of all medications. The SFCC pharmacists are also available to assist you with education for taking multiple medicines and/or complex medicines.