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SOUTHERN OREGON’S

MEDICAL SCENE

new, exciting, innovative goings on

by lynn leissler
provided

outhern Oregon is a large area geographically, but not so when measured by population.
Our cities are midsize, and a number of our surrounding communities tilt more rural
than urban. Our overall worldview comprises broad diversity. We have abundant wineries,
Sbreweries, performing arts venues, and outdoor recreational opportunities second to none.

One outstanding aspect of our identity is our medical community. We shine, from small clinics to
large hospitals, and have bragging rights to prestigious awards and rankings. The list is long, but
we’d like to highlight two entities that offer exceptional and unique care.

THE MARY AND DICK HEIMANN

CANCER CENTER

HOPE HAS A NEW HOME

“Our fingerprints don’t fade from the lives we touch.”

- July Blume

I could talk about this all day,” says Wendy Vaughn, Asante’s Clinical Director of Cancer Services,
referring to the new Mary and Dick Heimann Cancer Center with its expanded services and
innovative treatment options. As she spoke with passion and enthusiasm, this writer kept saying,
“Wow!”

Mid-January marked the opening of Asante’s Heimann Cancer Center in Medford and the expan-
sion of the Helen K. Spears Cancer Center in Grants Pass. “These two cancer centers are basi-
cally going to change cancer care in both Jackson and Josephine counties,” says Brian Murphy,
Administrative Director of Cancer Services. “Overall, this will make it so much more convenient
and efficient for our patients. Also, the technology we’re bringing in is going to greatly improve
our ability to care for them.” Not all services will be available at the Spears Cancer Center, but
those patients can access what they need in Medford.

Over 2,000 cancer cases were diagnosed last year in Jackson and Josephine counties, and a 20%
increase is expected over the next ten years, an aging demographic being a big factor. To deal with
present and future cancer patients, the new Heimann Cancer Center provides expansive services,
all under one roof. Previously, patients had to travel to Portland for some treatments, although
even visiting several locations in the same community can be emotionally and physically draining

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