It is recommended that when you or your family member is diagnosed with mesothelioma that you be evaluated at an academic, multi-disciplinary, mesothelioma center. To become familiar with what a center can offer, we feature one center a month.
UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH MEDICAL CENTER
Hillman Cancer Center
William Cooper Pavilion Suite 140
5115 Centre Ave.
Pittsburg Pa. 15232
Mission: “At UPMC Cancer Center we’re committed to giving you the knowledge, inspiration, and specialty care you need to boldly face your cancer It’s because no diagnosis should stop you from doing the things you love, or from living each day to the fullest.”
History: Regions only comprehensive cancer institute designated by the National Cancer Institute
Director- James D Luketich M.D.- Chief of the Division of Thoracic and Foregut Surgery
David L. Bartlett M.D.- Director of Multidisciplinary Disease Site Clinical Research Program for UPMC
Team– Specialists from all areas- oncologists that specialize in thoracics, medical oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, radiation oncologists, palliative care all work as a team to deliver the specialized care that is necessary for mesothelioma patients. Led by Dr. James Luketich, the thoracic surgical oncologists include Dr. Neil Christie, Dr. Ryan Levy, Dr. Matthew Schuchert. The surgical oncologists include Dr. David L. Bartlett, Dr. Matthew P. Holtzman, Dr. James F. Pingpank. For a complete list of the team see www.upmccancercenter.com
Affiliations multiple hospitals throughout Pittsburgh
Stats – At the UPMC there are a total of 74,000 patients that are treated for many different cancers. The Mesothelioma patients are treated by experts in both pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma. UPMC is a busy mesothelioma center treating patients from a wide geographical area.
Research- The program is comprised of nine full time research scientists as well as clinical investigators. The research team is focused on many clinical trials; Dr. Bartlett’s specialty is regional delivery of chemotherapy to unresectable metastatic cancers. He has also developed oncolytic viruses for metastatic cancers.
Support Services– “At UPMC Cancer Center we want to take care of your heart and mind, just as we work with you to treat your illness.” Listed resources include:
Center for Counseling and Cancer Support- a team consisting of psychologists and psychiatrists experienced in helping patients and their families deal with living with cancer.
The Sheila Reicher Fine Collection- books, pamphlets, and CDs to help patients and families deal with the many emotions of living with cancer.
Contact- Hillman Cancer Center – 5115 Centre Avenue Pittsburg Pa 15232; Phone: 412-692-4724
Mesothelioma specialized care contact 412-647-2811
