Community Oncology Alliance Mobilizes Cancer Clinics To Treat Thousands Of Hurricane Katrina Patient

WASHINGTON, Sept. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- The Community Oncology Alliance (COA) and CancerConsultants.com have established a website, http://www.katrinacancerhelp.com , and toll-free call center (888-912-9111) to assist thousands of cancer patients and caregivers displaced by Hurricane Katrina.

Services provided: -- Online resources and toll-free number for patients seeking oncology clinics in their immediate area. -- Displaced caregivers, such as physicians and nurses can register their current contact information that can be made available to physicians and patients. -- Online registration for oncology clinics willing to provide treatment and medical supplies for displaced patients. -- Volunteer opportunities in affected states.

Dozens of cancer programs throughout Alabama, Louisiana & Mississippi are closed due to the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Over 150 community-based cancer clinics in the Southeast have mobilized physicians, nurses, and staff to care for cancer patients currently living away from their homes.

“The care and well-being of our patients is our top priority. The community cancer clinics that have welcomed cancer patients displaced by Hurricane Katrina truly tells the story of what community cancer care is all about. We estimate that care for thousands of cancer patients has been disrupted. Many of these patients were on active chemotherapy regimens and are overdue for treatment,” said Leonard Kalman, M.D., President, Community Oncology Alliance. “These newly created resources will significantly help displaced cancer patients quickly locate specialty care providers.”

For additional information contact The Community Oncology Alliance 202-756-2258.

The Community Oncology Alliance (COA) is a grassroots organization committed to fostering and protecting high quality, affordable and accessible cancer care for all Americans battling cancer. COA’s vision is to strongly promote initiatives that further enhance the quality and affordability of cancer care, which along with accessibility have been hallmarks of cancer treatment delivered in the community setting. For additional information, visit: http://www.communityoncology.org .

Contact Information: Deborah D. Coble Community Oncology Alliance Press Officer 901-683-0055x1312 901-831-1010 cellular

Community Oncology Alliance

CONTACT: Deborah D. Coble, Community Oncology Alliance, Press Officer,+1-901-683-0055 ext. 1312, or +1-901-831-1010 cellular

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