The purpose of the Interdisciplinary Breast Clinic is to:
- Provide a "patient friendly" environment for the newly diagnosed breast cancer patient in which a physician from all disciplines involved in breast cancer care can assemble in one setting to provide information, consultation and a consensus regarding treatment options to the patient and family;
- Provide same day confirmation of the diagnosis as well as diagnostic mammography and ultrasound confirmation of the diagnosis;
- Facilitate coordination between surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and medical oncology in initiating and maintaining treatment;
- Provide support services to the breast patient and her family that includes care management by a clinical nurse specialist, same day pathological confirmation and mammography review, supportive services on site that includes volunteer "Angel Squad" members and "Reach to Recovery" volunteers.
The Interdisciplinary Breast Cancer Clinic at The Kirklin Clinic® in the UAB Medical Center District is the only facility in Alabama that offers breast cancer patients a unique opportunity to consult with a team of three specialists in one visit about their treatment options. This consultation is designed to help them make an informed decision about their choice of treatments. During the breast cancer patient's visit to the clinic, pertinent information is gathered, pathology and x-rays are reviewed and a team of breast specialists examine, evaluate and answer questions offering a comprehensive treatment recommendation that is tailored to the individual.