Surgical oncologists find the DVDs are helpful in educating patients about treatment.
Berkshire Medical Center
At the Women’s Imaging Center at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, patient care coordinator Kathy Hart contacts patients immediately after they receive a diagnosis of breast cancer from a radiologist. She helps patients schedule appointments with surgeons and oncologists, answers questions, and provides the shared decision-making DVDs for patients to view at home prior to their initial consultation with a surgeon. Kathy also reviews with patients the booklet that accompanies the DVD, highlighting key points to ensure that patients are well-informed when they meet with subsequent health care providers.
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The DVD on breast cancer helped Pam create a list of questions for her surgeon.
Kathy Hart helps patients with breast cancer better understand their options.
Radiologists find the DVDs allow patients to absorb information at their own pace.
Located in western Massachusetts, Berkshire Medical Center serves county residents as well as individuals from New York, Connecticut, and Vermont.
The Women’s Imaging Center at Berkshire Medical Center provides comprehensive breast cancer diagnosis in a single location.
The site has participated in the Foundation’s Breast Cancer Initiative since 2004.