UHS supports every step of the cancer journey
A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Questions come quickly—What’s next? How soon will treatment start? Who’s helping me through this? At UHS, the answer is a team that works together from day one. Laboratory experts, specialty pharmacists and the oncology care team collaborate closely to support patients at every stage.
LABORATORY SERVICES: FROM BIOPSY TO NEXT STEPS
For many patients, the cancer journey often begins in the lab. “The lab is integral in confirming a diagnosis, directing treatment and monitoring patients throughout their oncology journey,” says Mary Kielma, Administrative Director, UHS Laboratory Services.
When a biopsy is performed, UHS pathologists step in, sometimes giving real-time results during surgery to determine if a tumor is cancerous and whether it’s been fully removed. Using advanced testing techniques, pathologists can learn where the cancer started and how it behaves, information that helps oncologists choose the most effective treatment plan.
UHS is the only facility in the region to offer cutting-edge services for diagnosing leukemias and lymphomas—an advanced service rarely available at community hospitals. Specialists can also review lab results digitally from anywhere, which speeds up turnaround times and helps UHS recruit top talent. And through a partnership with the Mayo Clinic, UHS patients gain access to highly specialized cancer tests, often receiving results within 24 hours.
“Providers can pick up the phone and talk with our pathologists in real time. That accessibility means faster answers, less waiting and more confidence for patients and their care teams,” Ms. Kielma says.
SPECIALTY PHARMACY: MAKING TREATMENT ACCESSIBLE
Once a treatment plan is in place, the UHS Specialty Pharmacy steps in to make sure patients get the medications they need, whether it’s chemotherapy in the infusion center or pills taken at home. “Some chemotherapy drugs can cost over $100,000 a dose,” says James Jester, System Director, UHS Pharmacy Services. “Our role is to make sure patients can get the medications they need safely and affordably.”
The team navigates the process—working with insurance approvals, applying for grants and connecting with manufacturers to secure rebates or free supplies for those who qualify. Oral medications are shipped directly to the patient’s home, with clear instructions and tips for managing side effects. Pharmacists also make regular follow-up calls to patients to check on their progress.
In the infusion center, safety comes first. Every order is verified by both the Nursing and Pharmacy teams. Pharmacists embedded in the Oncology practice work side-by-side with providers to ensure each regimen is tailored to the individual.
For both Ms. Kielma and Mr. Jester, it comes down to teamwork. “It’s not a cookie-cutter approach. We tailor everything to the patient, so they can focus on healing while we handle the rest,” Mr. Jester says.
At UHS, patients can count on advanced testing, timely access to treatment and a care team that will be with them every step of the way.
The UHS Specialty Pharmacy offers patients a convenient location on Main Street in Johnson City.
CONNECT
If you or a loved one is facing a cancer diagnosis, contact our Oncology team to learn how we can help. Visit nyuhs.org/cancer to get started.
