BY KYLE TROUTMAN ktroutman@cassville-democrat.com
Some of the biggest challenges accompanying a breast cancer diagnosis are where, when and how to receive effective and affordable care.
For residents of Barry County, that answer may lay in their own backyard.
Oncology Hematology Associates (OHA), which has offices in Monett, Springfield and Lebanon, has been serving the area since 1979, staffed by an experienced multidisciplinary team of professionals.
“We provide expert care to our patients while respecting their dignity and life choices,” said Megan Brattin, Adult Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with OHA. “We offer state-of-the-art oncology and hematology care throughout the region to all patients. We understand the difficult journey that our patients and their families face while battling cancer and blood disorders. Our patients take comfort in knowing that we have been serving the region since 1979, providing exceptional medical expertise, genuine compassion and unwavering emotional support.”
With 45 years of practicing in the area, Brattin said OHSA has served thousands of breast cancer patients and their families. From specific testing and individualized care to chemotherapy, immunotherapy and infusions, OHA’s list of capabilities is extensive.
“We develop educational plans on an individual basis and meet with patients and their families to discuss treatment specifics and plan of care,” Brattin said. “These educations are designed to go over all treatment details and answer any questions. A patient’s breast cancer journey doesn’t end at the completion of treatment; therefore, we provide survivorship visits to manage the long-term side effects of treatment, including bone health, lymphedema, cardiac toxicity and many others.”
Brattin said that level of care, plus proximity to home, has been a benefit to local residents over the years, especially when it comes to time and finances.
“Having our office location in Monett has helped patients and their families receive the care they need and deserve close to home,” Brattin said. “When you’re seeking care and treatment, the last thing patients and their families want is to travel long distances as traveling is expensive and is difficult when you do not feel well to begin with.
“We take pride in having our satellite locations, so patients can focus on their care and treatment journey. We have helped several patients that live in Arkansas, as well. We will take on the task of speaking to insurance companies and receive exceptions for out of state care (when able) to ensure patient care is first.”
OHA also works closely with Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks and other non-profits to provide financial support to their patients in times of need.
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1-in-8 women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis, making it the most common for American women despite improved treatments and higher survival rates.
Brattin said early detection is key, as are prevention plans for slowing the progress of the disease.
“Additionally, asking the right questions when diagnosed with cancer is critical, providing essential information for patients who are beginning their journey to recovery,” she said.
Brattin offered eight questions to ask upon receiving a breast cancer diagnosis. Due to space constraints, that information may be found in the digital version of this story at www.cassville- democrat.com.
“These questions provide transparency into a complicated disease,” Brattin said. “Knowing not only the type of breast cancer, but more about the treatment options available and lifestyle changes that may be required helps patients understand their diagnosis, make better-informed health decisions, and feel involved in their care plan.”
Outside of breast cancer care, OHA offers treatment for more than 15 cancers, as well as specializing in diagnosis and treatment of blood cancers and autoimmune disorders.
“We treat patients with all types of hematologic malignancies, including rare blood-based liquid tumors and autoimmune abnormalities,” Brattin said. “As such, patients can benefit from our expertise in the management of conditions such as lymphoma, leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), as well as multiple myeloma, myeloproliferative syndromes, aplastic anemia and other hematological malignancies.
“We also offer specialty infusion therapies for patients with chronic diseases or conditions to treat anemia, Crohn’s, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and more. Under the supervision of our Board-certified physicians, our dedicated teams of oncology-certified nurses and pharmacy technicians are trained in preparing and managing complex infusions and addressing side effects that may occur.”
Brattin said after 45 years, OHA has shown why a community oncology practice is the best choice for cancer care. She said OHA specifically promotes its personalized care, convenient location, whole-patient care, cutting-edge access and affordability.
Patients also do not need to have a referral “Whether it be a general concern, a new diagnosis, or a second opinion, patients can reach out and we will be happy to see them,” Brattin said. “We offer so many options for patients under ‘one roof’ so that patients can focus on their treatment. Patients can call our new patient coordinator directly at 417-708-5154.”
For more information on Oncology Hematology Associates, people may call 417-882-4480 or 417-708-5154, or visit www.ohaclinic.com.
