Message from the Chief of Oncology

Our physicians, many of whom have achieved the highest level of training in their fields, value the team approach that brings together experts in medical oncology, radiation oncology and surgical oncology with peers in radiology, pathology, palliative care, oncology nursing, pharmacy and patient navigation. Together, we evaluate each patient’s case and develop an evidence-based treatment plan. Importantly, we then discuss the recommended plan with the patient and engage in a shared decision-making process that honors their individual values and preferences.

In 2019, an estimated 8,600 new adult cancer cases were diagnosed in Maine, according to the American Cancer Society; cancer is the most common cause of death in our state. Of these adult cases, nearly two-thirds of the population received care at a MaineHealth Cancer Care Network hospital or outpatient facility. Download our 2020 Outcomes & Innovation Report to see highlights of our data, along with profiles of our cancer programs and services. Our network includes:

• A platform for physicians and clinical staff from all network sites to collaborate in the care-delivery process. Multidisciplinary tumor-specific teams have formed to develop common clinical pathways, standardizing our approach to care. Regional tumor boards are established, allowing current cancer cases to be reviewed by multidisciplinary clinical teams across the network to ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care.
• An array of supportive services including dietitians who specialize in nutritional counseling for people undergoing cancer treatment, as well as social workers and financial counselors who remove barriers to accessing timely cancer care.

Maine cancer patients and their families desire access to state-of-the-art patient-centered care. Our singular goal is to ensure that “the right care, in the right location, as close to home as possible” will be provided. We welcome the opportunity to partner with you in the care of your patients with cancer, and I hope this report will give you confidence in the quality of care we offer.

Scot C. Remick, MD, FACP 
MaineHealth Cancer Care Network and Maine Medical Center
Professor of Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine

Research and Clinical Trials

Cancer patients across Maine and in Carroll County, New Hampshire have access to far more advanced clinical trials in their home communities, thanks to a major federal research grant awarded to the MaineHealth Cancer Care Network in 2019.

For more information, visit clinical trials.

New Oncology Floors at Maine Medical Center

The opening of 64 private, single rooms dedicated to top-of-the-line oncology care marked a milestone in the Maine Medical Center expansion and renovation project and for the MaineHealth Cancer Care Network. This addition to the Coulombe Family Tower was built to meet the contemporary needs of patients: the pavilions feature modern airflow systems, family lounges and floor-to-ceiling windows. Other hospital expansions in the network are featured in the report.

Comprehensive Medical Oncology Practice in Southern Maine

In the fall of 2019, MaineHealth announced the formation of MaineHealth Cancer Care, an expanded medical oncology and hematology practice providing patients with fully integrated, state-of-the-art cancer care. Learn more about MaineHealth Cancer Care. 

The MaineHealth Cancer Care Network total analytic case volume grew from 6,251 cases in 2017 to 6,411 in 2018. We treat the majority of cancer cases in Maine and the Mt. Washington Valley of New Hampshire.

Source: Percent of Maine Cases per Body System by Facility, Maine Incidence: 1-year average based on 2013, 2015 MCR incidence