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World-Class Cancer Treatment at Leonard Cancer Institute at Mission Hospital

Recognized among the nation’s elite centers, the Leonard Cancer Institute at Mission Hospital brings the power of precision medicine, progressive research, and leading-edge clinical trials to our community. Our skilled cancer physicians provide personalized care tailored to each patient’s specific tumor, cancer type, and genetics based on the latest research and evidence. One of the hallmarks of our program is the compassionate support our caregivers and nurse navigators provide, guiding our patients through every step of their journey. We are passionate about easing the way for our patients and healing our community.

2252.3 miles away
844-959-HOPE (844-959-4673)

World-Class Cancer Treatment at Leonard Cancer Institute at Mission Hospital

Recognized among the nation’s elite centers, the Leonard Cancer Institute at Mission Hospital brings the power of precision medicine, progressive research, and leading-edge clinical trials to our community. Our skilled cancer physicians provide personalized care tailored to each patient’s specific tumor, cancer type, and genetics based on the latest research and evidence. One of the hallmarks of our program is the compassionate support our caregivers and nurse navigators provide, guiding our patients through every step of their journey. We are passionate about easing the way for our patients and healing our community.

2252.3 miles away
844-959-HOPE (844-959-4673)

Cancer is a very personal experience. That’s why our goal is to make sure that every aspect of your care and support is personalized just for you – your health, your goals, your needs and preferences, and your specific type of cancer, right down to the genetic and molecular level. We believe that the more we know about you and your cancer, the better we can treat you and support you.

Our support begins by making sure that everyone and everything you need for your treatment, recovery and healing is right here in South Orange County. That’s why we created the Leonard Institute. Here, you’ll have the benefit of nationally respected experts, leading-edge imaging, breakthrough therapies, robust research and clinical trials, personal navigators, and compassionate care – all under one roof, close to home.

Within the Leonard Cancer Institute, our cancer specialists leverage the latest advances in genomic testing to identify the unique characteristics of your cancer, so they can tailor therapies specifically to you. That means superior diagnosis, more effectively targeted treatment and fewer side effects. From genetic counselors and oncologists to nurse specialists and rehabilitation therapists, every person on your care team works together to provide the right care for you, right here.

Accredited cancer care

The Leonard Cancer Institute is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) Accreditation from the American College of Surgeons, an honor earned by only a small number of the nation’s hospitals. We are proud recipients of the CoC’s Outstanding Achievement Award, the highest honor available to non-academic hospital cancer programs.

In addition, the Leonard Cancer Institute has been accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) and for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC). Providence Mission Hospital is one of only seven hospitals in California and among only 25 in the U.S. to earn this prestigious NAPRC designation.

Logo for Commission on Cancer Accredited Program: A Quality Program of the American College of Surgeons NAP Breast Center Accreditation Logo NAP Rectal Cancer Accreditation Logo

Cancer treatment can be a complicated process, involving multiple specialists, unfamiliar medical terminology and very important decisions. Our oncology navigators are here to guide you and your family through all the complexities of your diagnosis and treatment, providing knowledgeable and compassionate support from start to finish.

Each of our navigators is specially trained and highly experienced in working with cancer patients. Your personal navigator is someone you can turn to for answers, help or just someone to talk to.  From helping you understand test results to providing tips for dealing with treatment side effects, your navigator will remain personally involved in every phase of your care.

Your navigator will:

  • Help you understand your diagnosis and treatment options
  • Answer your questions 
  • Make sure you have the information you need to participate in your care and make informed decisions
  • Work closely with everyone on your team to make sure your care is well coordinated 
  • Help you communicate with your medical team
  • Advocate for you and help you resolve any concerns
  • Connect you with helpful wellness and support services
  • Serve as a medically knowledgeable friend who is committed to helping you through your cancer journey
  • Provide emotional support to help ease the stress of cancer treatment

For more information or to contact a navigator, please call 844-959-4673.

At the Leonard Cancer Institute, you will be guided through your care by a highly trained, multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists who not only understand the importance of comprehensive support, but also value your individual needs. From your initial diagnosis and treatment to recovery and beyond, your team treats you collaboratively and holistically.

Your team

Depending on your specific cancer diagnosis, your cancer care team may include any or all of the following providers:

  • Board-certified medical, surgical and radiation oncologists
  • Specialized surgeons
  • Medical imaging specialists
  • Pathologists
  • Genetic counselors
  • Registered nurses who specialize in cancer care
  • Clinical trials nurses
  • Navigators
  • Physicists
  • Clinical pharmacists
  • Laboratory technicians
  • Supportive care providers such as oncology dietitians, social workers, rehabilitation therapists and others
Collaborative case reviews

As a hallmark of our collaborative approach, our team meets regularly to review patient cases and identify a plan of care. At these cancer care conferences, experts across a variety of specialties come together to develop a complete picture of you as an individual, to share their expertise, and to recommend the best strategies to address your specific circumstances. This ensures that innovative therapies, medication, and appropriate clinical trials are considered as soon as they become available. By gathering at the same table, our multidisciplinary experts offer each patient the ultimate “second opinion” to help determine the best step forward.

Breakthroughs and advances in cancer care are happening at a rapid pace. At the Leonard Cancer Institute, we combine the power of personalized medicine with leading-edge research to deliver state-of-the-art care. Our cancer specialists employ the latest diagnostic technologies and treatment strategies, including the following:

Cancer therapy continues to evolve, with new approaches in medications offering greater effectiveness and fewer side effects. In addition, as new agents and drug combinations come to light, we continue to find better ways to manage tumors and relieve the effects of cancer. At the Leonard Cancer Institute, our board-certified medical oncologists are skilled in the latest medical treatments and routinely collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team of cancer specialists at weekly cancer conferences to identify an individual plan of care for each patient.

Intravenous chemotherapy and other medical treatments are provided in our beautiful infusion center. Working with your medical oncologist and other providers, our chemotherapy-certified oncology nurses provide safe and compassionate care. Services include:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Biological therapy
  • Hormone therapy
  • Intravenous medications
  • Targeted therapy
  • Injections
  • Lab collection
  • Port and PICC line management
  • Therapeutic phlebotomy
  • Blood transfusions
  • Education and support
  • For added comfort, virtual reality headsets are available for use during treatments.

To contact the infusion center, call 949-573-9477.

 

Radiation therapy is an effective way to destroy cancer cells. It plays many roles in cancer treatment, from curing or controlling cancer to relieving symptoms caused by the disease. If you are referred to radiation therapy, you will meet with a radiation oncologist, a highly specialized and extensively trained physician who is an expert in a broad array of radiation therapies. Based on your exam and history, your radiation oncologist will explain the ideal treatment options for you and will help you make an informed treatment decision. Throughout your treatment, your radiation oncologist, your registered nurse, and your radiation therapists will monitor you regularly, answer any questions and help you address any side effects.

The radiation oncology program at the Leonard Cancer Institute uses the most advanced technologies to target tumors while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue, including:

  • Computerized treatment planning: Using multiple 3D CT (computed tomography) scans, we precisely map the area to be treated, as well as the areas to be shielded, to optimize treatment and minimize side effects.
  • Leading-edge linear accelerator: The Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator offers pinpoint accuracy and precision, through several leading-edge capabilities:
    • 2D and 3D conformal radiation, which aims multiple radiation beams precisely to conform to a tumor’s exact shape and size and blocks out areas that do not need radiation.
    • Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which allows the intensity of the radiation beams to be adjusted for specific areas, reducing the effects on healthy tissues.
    • Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT), which makes it possible to correct for subtle changes in tumor location during treatment with millimeter precision.
    • Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), which delivers high-dose precision radiation to small areas in one to five treatments. This is commonly used for brain, lung, bone, and liver tumors.
  • Brainlab ExacTrac Dynamic: This precision patient monitoring uses thermal-surface tracking technology with real time X-ray tracking, for extraordinary accuracy.
  • Brainlab Elements software, which allows for state-of-the-art, highly precise planning for multiple brain metastases.
  • Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT): This treatment takes place in the operating room during surgery, using sophisticated technology to apply a single, large dose of radiation directly to the tumor site.
  • Brachytherapy: This method delivers radiation by placing radioactive sources inside the body, either within or adjacent to tumor tissue.
    • High-dose rate brachytherapy (HDR) delivers a high dose of radiation to a limited area inside the body, used for breast and gynecologic malignancies.
    • Low-dose rate brachytherapy (LDR) uses low dose radiation for prostate cancer using permanent I-125 seed implants.

To contact the radiation oncology department, call 949-573-9560.

The Leonard Cancer Institute partners with renowned surgeons who play an important role in many of our cancer patients’ treatment. Our board-certified surgical oncologists are expertly trained at completely removing tumors from the breast, colon, lung, prostate, pancreas, and kidney to name a few.  Additionally, our surgeons follow the latest NCCN (National Comprehensive Cancer Network) guidelines in staging and treating tumors.

To make the best state-of-the-art recommendations for post-surgery treatments, our surgical oncologists present patient cases at our multidisciplinary conferences. The recommendations can include chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and even enrollment in clinical trials.

Our specialized surgeons employ the latest in robotic technology to perform minimally invasive procedures. Robotic surgery has shorter recovery times, less pain, fewer complications and incredible outcomes.

Find more information about robotic surgery.

The Cancer Genetics Program at the Leonard Cancer Institute offers genetic testing and counseling to shift the focus from uncertainty to empowerment and prevention. Our licensed, board-certified genetic counselors provide detailed risk assessments to help you understand your personal cancer risks. If you opt for genetic testing, your counselor will identify the most useful tests for your particular risks. After testing, your counselor will interpret your results, review them with you and recommend individualized screening and preventive measures that can empower you to minimize your risks.

We offer multiple service options to meet individual needs for genetic testing, including:

  • In-person appointments, telehealth appointments and walk-in clinics.
  • Full-service genetic counseling for the most comprehensive pre-test and post-test engagement.
  • Walk-in genetic clinics with rapid sample collection for convenient genetic testing that includes expert coordination and oversight by a licensed board-certified genetic counselor.
  • Post-test genetic counseling for individuals who have had previous genetic testing and would like an updated or expert interpretation of their results, would like to consider having updated or additional testing, or would benefit from having a formal comprehensive risk assessment.

The Leonard Cancer Institute also offers cancer patients the unique advantage of a somatic molecular genomic testing laboratory within our own Providence health system. Our specialists routinely perform advanced genomic testing to identify the DNA alterations driving the growth of our patients’ tumors. This allows us to identify treatments and clinical trials that target these specific mutations, resulting in more precise, effective treatment and fewer side effects.

To learn more about genetic and genomic testing, or to make a genetic counseling appointment, call 949-573-9492.

In addition to treating cancer, the Leonard Cancer Institute offers rehabilitation therapies to help you recover from the physical effects of cancer and its treatment. Our physical therapists, speech therapists and occupational therapists customize your therapy to help minimize the side effects of your cancer treatment, optimize your healing process, maximize your function and restore your quality of life. Using proven therapies and techniques, our therapists work with you one-on-one to address specific issues such as:

  • Weakness
  • Balance and walking issues
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Lymphedema swelling
  • Difficulty swallowing and eating
  • Trouble speaking
  • Restricted or weak oral and facial movements

For rehabilitation appointments, please call 949-573-9465.

Cancer treatment sometimes causes lymphedema, a buildup of fluid that causes swelling in the arms, legs, or other areas. Within the Leonard Cancer Institute’s rehabilitation program, we offer a specialized lymphedema program to help address these issues. If you have a cancer surgery that increases your risk of lymphedema, your surgeon may refer you to the program after surgery to learn how to reduce your risk of developing lymphedema. If treatment is needed, our therapists use specialized techniques to help your body reabsorb the accumulated fluid and to reduce swelling and discomfort.

For lymphedema program appointments, call 949-573-9465.

 

The Leonard Cancer Institute provides advanced treatments and comprehensive care for a wide range of cancers, including (but not limited to):

The Breast Program at Providence Mission Hospital is devoted to advancing women’s breast health through comprehensive screenings, education, diagnosis, treatment and support. Our personalized care and support include:

  • Leading-edge diagnostics, including:
    • Tomosynthesis (“3D” mammography), which creates 2D and 3D pictures of the breasts that improves the ability of mammography to detect early breast cancers and decrease the number of women “called back” for additional tests.
    • Diagnostic ultrasound
    • Breast MRI with computer-aided detection (CAD)
    • PET/CT scans, as needed
  • Breakthrough therapies, including:
    • Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT), an innovative treatment that takes place in the operating room during surgery, using sophisticated equipment to apply a single, large dose of radiation directly to the tumor site.
    • SAVI brachytherapy, a five-day course of targeted radiation therapy (APBI) for early-stage breast cancer.
  • Patient navigators to provide support, education and access to resources
  • Genetic counseling
  • Clinical trials
  • Oncology dietitian
  • Social work services
  • Breast cancer treatment educational materials provided to newly diagnosed breast cancer patients
  • Financial navigation
  • Valiant Spa and Wellness Corner, which offers services for comfort and healing
  • Massage therapy, naturopath and acupuncturist

Esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, and other cancers of the digestive system.

Cancers of the bladder, kidney, prostate and testicles.

Women’s reproductive cancers, including cancers of the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina and vulva.

Our team provides screening, early detection, treatment and rehabilitation for cancers that start in the mouth, throat, larynx, thyroid, nose or sinuses.

Blood, bone marrow and lymphatic systems, including leukemia, lymphoma and multiple myeloma.

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women and lung cancer accounts for more deaths than any other cancer (colon, breast, prostate, pancreatic) in both men and women. Early-stage lung cancer is much more curable than those found in later stages. Despite this fact, only about 15% of lung cancers are currently diagnosed at this early stage.

Tobacco use (both current and former) accounts for about 80% of all newly diagnosed lung cancers. Quitting smoking can significantly improve survivability and reduce the risk of cancer reoccurring later. The Leonard Cancer Institute offers a free, on-site smoking cessation program.

How can lung cancer be detected early?

Early detection of lung cancer is possible with a special x-ray technology called Low Radiation Dose CT (LDCT). LDCT is a special imaging technique that creates cross-sectional pictures of the lungs allowing doctors to find nodules or spots that may represent cancer. LDCT screening is fast, non-invasive and painless. Radiation levels used in LDCT are less than conventional CT scans. A landmark national research study called the National Lung Screening Trial demonstrated that patients considered to be at high risk for developing lung cancer had a 20% lower risk of death from lung cancer than patients who were not screened early with LDCT.

Screening with LDCT is not a guarantee that a person will not get cancer and LDCT is not a “one and done” activity. LDCT is typically done once per year with more frequent scanning if there are any suspicious nodules or spots.

Am I eligible for screening?

As a preventative health benefit, patients who are considered high risk for lung cancer are eligible for LDCT screening covered by insurance or Medicare. Eligibility criteria can be found here.

If you don’t meet the criteria, you may still be eligible for screening. Ask your doctor for more information.

Why choose the Leonard Cancer Institute?

Our LDCT scanners have been accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) specifically for low-radiation lung screening, ensuring the scanner is calibrated to give the lowest possible radiation necessary.

All scans are reviewed by board-certified radiologists. Abnormal screens are reviewed by a multi-disciplinary team of specialists to make evidence–based recommendations for your care using state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options not available in most other hospitals.

Our dedicated team will help you coordinate your LDCT appointment, follow up care and communication between the specialist team and your physician.

We offer a free, five-session smoking cessation program. To register, or for more information, call 866-NEW-LUNG (639-5864).

What are my next steps?
  1. Contact your doctor. Your LDCT will require a doctor’s order.
  2. To find a physician call 877-459-DOCS (3627).
  3. If you are still smoking, start the process of quitting today and sign up for smoking cessation at 866-NEW-LUNG (639-5864).

For questions or more information about LDCT screening, contact Christine Reilly MS Ed, RRT, pulmonary navigator at
949-573-9492, ext. 4065 or send an email.

 

Cutaneous malignancies (skin cancers), including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and others.

Primary cancers of the brain and central nervous system. We also treat cancers that originate in other areas and metastasize to the brain or spine.

Cancers that start in the bones or soft tissues, such as muscle or fat.

Through ongoing research and clinical trials, we are seeing breakthroughs in cancer treatment at unprecedented rates, and the Leonard Cancer Institute is committed to bringing these advantages to our patients.

The Leonard Cancer Institute at Providence Mission Hospital partners with leading academic centers, cancer institutions and other organizations across the country to offer our patients access to the newest treatment advancements through clinical trials. Our dedicated clinical trials coordinator partners with physicians and patients to make appropriate clinical trials a regular part of our patients’ care options and identifies the most promising opportunities to participate in based on the patient’s specific tumor, cancer type and genetics.

By participating in clinical trials, our patients may not only expand their treatment options, but also help pioneer the standard of care for future cancer patients.

For more information, or to learn about eligibility requirements for specific trials, call our clinical trials office at 949-573-9492 ext. 4180. 

 

A cancer diagnosis can have ripple effects that extend beyond your physical health. At the Leonard Cancer Institute, we treat the whole person, not just the cancer. Throughout your care, you’ll have access to a wide variety of helpful and supportive services, such as these:

We offer several cancer support groups to help patients cope with the emotional and spiritual challenges surrounding a cancer diagnosis. Contact Khanhi Nguyen, LCSW at 949-573-9492 ex 4069.

Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Connection – Support Group

Connect with other newly diagnosed patients and a certified breast cancer navigator to talk about your journey and build a firm informational foundation.

  • Meets first Monday of each month, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
  • Currently on Zoom – email invitation sent before each meeting
  • Facilitator: Leonard Cancer Institute’s Breast Health Navigator, Susann Burnett, RN, BS, CN-BN

For more information, call (949) 347-6062.

A Step at a Time – Breast Cancer Support Group

Find strength and hope with other survivors before, during, and after your treatment.

  • Meets second and fourth Mondays, 6–8 p.m.
  • Currently on Zoom – email invitation sent before each meeting
  • When social distancing regulations allow:
    Leonard Cancer Institute for Cancer Treatment, Prevention and Wellness
    27799 Medical Center Rd, 2nd Floor, Suite 250-Pellini Board Room, Mission Viejo, 92691
  • Facilitator: Leonard Cancer Institute’s Breast Health Navigator, Susann Burnett, RN, BS, CN-BN

For more information, call 949-347-6062.

Un Paso a la Vez – Grupo de appoyo para mujeres con cancer de seno
  • Se reune el primer lunes del mes, de 6:30 a 8 p.m. en Zoom
  • Facilitadora: Enfermera Navegadora del Cancer de Mama de el Hospital de Mission, Eileen Helfeld

Para obtener mas informacion, llame al 949-347-6071.

Our Journey Together – Recurrent and Metastatic Breast Cancer Support Group

A group specifically addressing the needs of women who have recurrent and/or metastatic breast cancer.

  • Meets first and third Tuesday of every month, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
  • Currently on Zoom-email invitation sent before each meeting
  • When social distancing regulations allow:
    Leonard Cancer Institute 
    27799 Medical Center Rd, 2nd Floor, Suite 250-Pellini Board Room, Mission Viejo, 92691

Eating well can be a challenge when you’re going through cancer treatment, but it’s very important. Good nutrition gives your body the fuel and support it needs to heal, to recover, to maintain a healthy weight, and to feel and stay well. Our board-certified, registered oncology dietitians provide nutrition education and support from diagnosis through survivorship. If you’re having trouble eating, are losing weight, or are concerned about potential nutrient deficiencies or treatment side effects that impact eating, we’re here to help. 

To make an appointment with a dietitian, call 949-392-3357.

If the stress of your cancer diagnosis is affecting your life or your family, please let us know. Our licensed clinical oncology social worker can help you manage the emotional and practical stressors related to a cancer diagnosis, from treatment through survivorship. Our services include counseling for individuals, couples and families; assistance with advance health care planning; help with care coordination; and referrals to other resources such as support groups and financial assistance.

To meet with a social worker in person, by phone or virtually, call 949-573-9492, ext. 4069.

 

A diagnosis of cancer can put someone at high risk for experiencing financial difficulty. At the Leonard Cancer Institute, we provide services to help ease your way through financial concerns and barriers. Our financial care navigator will help you:

  • Evaluate insurance health plans to ensure the right choices are made for your care
  • Leverage available programs and services, such as co-pay assistance and patient assistance programs to help reduce financial barriers
  • Optimize external assistance programs, such as patient financial support programs

To speak with our financial navigator, call 949-573-9492, ext. 4063.

 

Palliative care is appropriate for any stage of a curable, chronic or life-threatening illness. Our providers work collaboratively with your physicians to provide comfort and symptom relief while you’re undergoing aggressive treatment so that you can maintain the highest possible quality of life. We help relieve serious symptoms such as pain, nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, constipation, loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping, depression and anxiety. The focus of palliative care is to help you gain the strength you need to carry on with daily life, to improve your ability to tolerate your medical treatments, and to provide support and guidance for you and your family.

To speak with a palliative care provider, call 949-364-1400, ext. 7668.

 
Cooking for Health and Well-Being

Tune in as Executive Chef Jonathan Gelman and Oncology Dietitian Kailey Proctor launch their new cooking series, hoping to make healthy eating easier – especially for those undergoing cancer treatments.

  • Episode 1: Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie
    First on the menu? A delicious chocolate peanut butter smoothie!
  • Episode 2: A Taste of Fall
    Learn how to make roasted butternut squash soup, cooked dried cannellini beans, sautéed swiss chard and white beans, and braised short ribs.
  • Episode 3: Holiday Brunch Ideas
    Tune in as Chef Jonathan and Oncology Dietitian Kailey share their high-protein holiday brunch recipes.
  • Episode 4: World of Flavors
    Appreciate flavors from different cultures around the world.
  • Episode 5: Step into Summer
    What's on the menu? A delicious salmon quinoa salad.

Meet the Team

At Providence, you'll have access to a vast network of dedicated and compassionate providers who offer personalized care by focusing on treatment, prevention and health education.

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