WellSpan and Johns Hopkins renew partnership for advanced cancer care access

The development marks the next stage of a partnership that began in 2017 and saw further expansion in 2021.

Over the last five years, more than 1,300 WellSpan patients at 12 cancer sub-specialties have received support from the partnership, which includes physician consultations, multidisciplinary tumour conferences, and access to subspecialty expertise.

Around 500 WellSpan patients have enrolled in clinical trials that are being by Johns Hopkins Medicine.

WellSpan Health president and CEO Roxanna Gapstur said: “When we expanded this collaboration five years ago, we shared a vision of bringing together the strengths of a leading academic medical centre and a nationally recognised community-based cancer programme to better serve patients across our region.

“Today, that vision continues to deliver meaningful benefits for our patients and it reflects our shared commitment to ensure more people can access world-class cancer care while remaining close to home and surrounded by their support systems.”

Johns Hopkins Health System president and Johns Hopkins Medicine executive vice-president Kevin Sowers said: “Our collaboration with WellSpan Health reflects a shared belief that every patient deserves access to the highest level of cancer expertise, regardless of where they live.

“Over the years, we have built strong clinical and research relationships that support healthcare professionals, advance innovation and improve patient experience.”

The extended collaboration will reach patients in areas, including the Central Susquehanna Valley, where WellSpan is investing in a programme for oncology at WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital.

Starting this autumn, phased improvements will introduce local oncology, infusion, and eventually radiation oncology and advanced cancer services.

Earlier this year, WellSpan collaborated with Cancer Care Associates of York to support cancer care efforts in York County.

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