Coordination of Oncology Care

At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, we understand that cancer is a complex disease that requires the care of multiple doctors and coordination of treatments. We are dedicated to helping you handle these logistics to help make your experience smoother.  However, we want to empower our patients to remember that they are the key players in this journey and encourage them to ask questions about treatment options and the healthcare professionals providing these treatments.

Healthcare professionals you may work with during your breast cancer treatment may include:

• Breast surgeon – Fellowship-trained surgeon who plans and performs the surgery to remove cancer and lymph nodes
• Radiation oncologist: A physician who treats cancer with radiation
• Medical oncologist: A physician who treats cancer with medication

These doctors may present your case for discussion at a conference, known as a multidisciplinary tumor board, where the following specialists may also be present:

• Radiologists: Physicians who specialize in imaging such as mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRIs
• Pathologists: Physicians who analyze tissue and blood samples to make diagnoses
• Geneticists
• Plastic surgeons
• Nurse navigators: Nurses who specialize in helping patients in their treatment journey
• Physical therapists
• Dieticians
• Social workers

Things to Consider When Choosing a Cancer Team

When selecting your oncology team, there are some important things to consider. First, ensure that your doctors are board-certified and have experience in treatment for breast cancer. Many doctors now specialize just in treating breast cancer. Second, ensure that you are educated about your treatment options. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Lastly, consider the location of your treatment. Do you want to be close to home, your transportation needs, and if you want to receive treatment at a major cancer center farther away? Considering these things, and more are important for determining what you want your treatment team will look like.

Contact Us Today

Remember that ultimately you will be the one who chooses your treatment. At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, we are here to support you during your decision-making process and help you coordinate with various medical professionals. Contact our Tucson, AZ office today to learn more.

Radiation Oncology

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Medical Therapy

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“The level of care is excellent.”

Dr. Ley is an excellent doctor who cares about her patients. She takes the time to explain everything and provides all options. The level of care is excellent.

Dr. Ley helped me through the first round of BC in 2017 with kindness, compassion and expertise! I had absolutely no reservations when trusting her for a 2021 and now for the 3rd time I can’t imagine going through this without her. She is a lion when it comes to fighting for you, calls you personally even though she has to be the busiest Dr. and mother I know. She’s considerate of your needs, fears and concerns and never lets you go it alone. Can’t say enough good!

When diagnosed with Breast Cancer my daughter, which is a surgical nurse, started searching for a breast surgeon for me. Within a short period of time, she called stating “Mom, Dr Ley is the surgeon for you”! I have not been disappointed & have had nothing but positive experiences with Dr. Ley & her staff. They truly care.

I have no words to express my gratitude for Dr. Ley! I was diagnosed Feb. 2020 and Dr. Ley besides being the best in her field and doing an amazing job on my double mastectomy she was even able to save my nipples. She is also a remarkable human being, patient, kind very clear in explaining everything and making you feel heard and safe in her hands. I 100% recommend her and her very helpful, kind and amazing team! If you have recently been diagnosed this is the team you want to have your back!

Dr. Ley is extremely good at explaining your breast cancer, treatment options, and everything she is going to do. She is a masterful surgeon and uses plastic techniques to close incisions, leaving minimal scarring. In addition, she is warm, pleasant, and a lovely person. I am so happy that I found her based on a friend’s recommendation. I can’t say enough about her and the practice’s excellent care.