Franciscan Health Cancer Center Indianapolis achieves full accreditation for rectal cancer program

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Franciscan Health Cancer Center Indianapolis has again achieved full accreditation status for its rectal cancer program from the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC).

Franciscan Health was the first health system in the state to achieve this distinction, three years ago. With the reaccreditation, Franciscan remains the only central Indiana health system to hold this accreditation.

Eaton

“It is a testament to the hard work of our entire staff at the cancer center to continue to receive full accreditation status for our rectal cancer program,” said Michael Eaton, MD, radiation oncologist and medical director for the Franciscan Health Cancer Center in Indianapolis, Mooresville, and Carmel. “This accreditation reflects our commitment to providing best-in-class care to our patients. In awarding this accreditation, NAPRC has provided us with the opportunity to celebrate the exceptional rectal cancer care we provide to our patients and our commitment to the well-being of our community.”

Dawnelle Green, who lives in Attica, Ind., was diagnosed with Stage 1 rectal cancer last year. After meeting with Dr. Ajita Narayan, part of the team at Franciscan Health Oncology & Hematology Specialists in Lafayette, she was quickly referred to Dr. Dipen Maun of Franciscan Physician Network Indiana Colon & Rectal Specialists Indianapolis. Dr. Maun’s office scheduled a PET/CT scan at Franciscan Health Mooresville and promptly laid out a treatment plan.

Dr. Maun performed a DaVinci interior resection with a diverted loop ileostomy to remove the cancer. A couple of months later, Green returned to have the ileostomy completed (the reconnection of the intestines) and was back at home the very next day.

Having been a nurse for over 25 years, the personal attention and care shown by every Franciscan team member she interacted with left a big impression on Green.

Green

“You won’t find anybody better,” said Green of the cancer team at Franciscan. “From the second I walked in the door, everyone was so caring and professional, all the way through the process I couldn’t ask for better care. I worked with them for five months and they were fantastic.”

Green encourages everyone to have routine screenings and a colonoscopy, especially when they believe something could be wrong. She also stresses for patients to be honest with a provider and let them know if something really is wrong.

“It is very important to have a colonoscopy,” said Green. “I was 47 years old, when I was diagnosed. My nephew was 37 when he was diagnosed and he wasn’t even having trouble. They have made the process so easy. I tell people to tell their provider what they are truly feeling, don’t sugarcoat it or include a ‘but.’ Also, find a provider you are comfortable with, can trust and who you are honest with. I certainly have that at Franciscan.”

Franciscan Health Cancer Center Indianapolis features nationally accredited cancer programs, board-certified oncologists, and dedicated fellowship-trained colorectal surgeons. The multidisciplinary team works continually to offer prompt diagnoses, advanced treatment options and the latest clinical trials to fight and beat colorectal cancer.

Approximately 90 percent of colorectal cancer can be prevented with colorectal screening. Those over the age of 45 or at high-risk are encouraged to talk to a doctor about regular colon cancer screening options.

Click here to learn more about the Franciscan Health Cancer Center Indianapolis and the rectal cancer program.