Lifespan & Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Look to Form Partnership in RI

Friday, February 19, 2016

GoLocalProv News Team

Dana-Farber, PHOTO: Wikipedia

The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Lifespan Health System have signed a letter of intent to enter into a partnership in Rhode Island.

The goal of the arrangement is to elevate the level of cancer treatment for patients seeking care at Lifespan-affiliated institutions, and to benefit both organizations' clinical, teaching and research missions.

"In addition to the specific benefits for appropriate patients, making clinical trials more widely available will also help hasten the development of new therapies. We are excited to begin developing a thoughtful and unique partnership with the superb system of caregivers and researchers at Lifespan," said Edward J. Benz, Jr., MD, president of Dana-Farber.

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

The partnership will provide a seamless system of care for patients needing treatment for rare and complex cancers. The partnership will also provide access for Lifespan cancer patients to a broader array of clinical trials, and to emerging and novel cancer therapies.

"We share a deep interest in developing a top notch, patient-centered, cost effective and seamless cancer care delivery system for the region. I can’t think of a better partner to collaborate with than Dana-Farber," said Timothy Babineau, MD, president and CEO of Lifespan.

The partnership will be supported by a similar electronic health record system which will enhance the use of cancer care pathways, reduce clinical redundancies and facilitate participation in their care.