At WellStar, we believe in fighting cancer, STAT. In the medical field, we know that STAT means as soon as possible. Here at WellStar, it also means Specialty Teams And Treatments.

The WellStar Cancer Program is accredited by the American College of Surgeons. More than 80 years ago, the College set the standards for cancer treatment. The key principle is “multidisciplinary care”. To us, it is simply another word for teamwork. We have an experienced team of medical specialists working together on each patient’s case. This team is the foundation of our Specialty Teams And Treatments Cancer Clinic, where you will find the best possible care, STAT. This means that you can start treatment within days, not weeks or months.

What does that mean for the patient? It means a plan that starts with one appointment and much less waiting, so that you can start your treatment much more quickly. We know that no two cancer patients are exactly the same, so the treatment plan fits each patient’s special needs.

At the STAT Clinic, you see all members of the treatment and support team in one place in one morning or afternoon. Our STAT team includes specialists with expertise in each cancer site and a Nurse Navigator to guide you through the treatment process. We also have a Medical Social Worker, a Licensed Certified Counselor, a Dietician who works exclusively with cancer patients, and other support staff to meet your needs.

The STAT Cancer Clinics provide services for persons with a diagnosis or suspicion of cancers of the chest (thoracic area).

How does the STAT Clinic work? If you have been diagnosed with cancer of the lung, esophagus or other area of the chest, or even if there is a suspicion of cancer,

• Your primary care doctor, your surgeon, your pulmonary doctor, or you yourself would call the STAT Clinic at 770-793-7470 or e-mail STATcancerclinic@wellstar.org to make an appointment.
• On the day of your appointment, you will see the team of physicians that is appropriate for your type of cancer—all in the same morning/afternoon at the same place.
• Because you see many different doctors, plan on a three-hour appointment time. This will allow you to see doctors from different specialties as well as some of the other support staff that you might need to see.
• You can bring family members and are encouraged to do so.
• After you see the members of the STAT team, they will then hold a conference to decide on a treatment plan that is best for your particular situation.
• The Nurse Navigator will be there from the time you make your appointment throughout your treatment program to schedule follow-up tests, answer questions, schedule appointments for tests and procedures, and just hold your hand when needed.
• Your primary care doctor will get a report of the findings of the clinic and help you get the treatment that is best for you.
• Click here to access your Medical History form. You can print it, complete it and bring it with you to your appointment. This will save you time.