Overview

When you are diagnosed with cancer, being close to home matters. Less travel means less stress and better outcomes. 

Our cancer diagnostic and treatment options include medical and radiation oncology services. A multidisciplinary team approach brings all specialists to the table to create treatment plans designed for each patient. From initial diagnosis through ongoing follow-up our specialists provide comprehensive and compassionate cancer treatment.

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“You can’t get any better than these guys. There’s no reason to cross the bridge for care.”

Thomas Holochwost, Cancer Survivor

“Everyone has been so positive. I can’t imagine going anywhere else.”

Margaret Price, Cancer Survivor

“You have so many doctors working for you. They’re like family; they laugh with you, they cry with you.”

Joan Bartels, Cancer Survivor

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Awards & Recognition

The TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute has been accredited by the American College of Surgeons as a comprehensive community cancer center since 1970. 

The TidalHealth Allen Cancer Center holds Accreditation from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer and is a member of the Association of Community Cancer Centers.

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Annual Cancer Report 

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Surgery

Surgery is often the first treatment step for people with cancer. TidalHealth’s surgeons have a “patient first” philosophy that is combined with clinical excellence and a commitment to innovation. 

TidalHealth’s Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute not only offers minimally invasive surgery, but also offers robotic surgery performed with the daVinci Surgical Robot. 

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Radiation Oncology 

Also called radiotherapy or radiation therapy, radiation oncology uses high energy rays of radiation to stop cancer cells from dividing or growing. Radiation can be used on different types of cancer and the intensity or dose of radiation varies by patient.

Radiation oncologists are doctors that use radiation to treat cancer. Radiation oncologists work with a patient’s cancer care team, including medical oncologists, to recommend treatment and develop a patient’s care plan. 

Our caring team of providers ensure that patients have a comfortable and calm experience during treatment. Patients and their families also have access to a nurse navigator and a care coordinator to guide them through the healthcare system and help finding support services. 

TidalHealth radiation oncology services feature the latest technology, including Intensity-modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) at TidalHealth Allen Cancer Center and the TrueBeam System at TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute. This advanced technology is designed to address a range of clinical cases. The TrueBeam system uses the latest treatment techniques, including SBRT, SRS, RapidArc® and Gated RapidArc®. We are among the first centers in the United States to offer this technology. 

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Medical Oncology

Medical oncology is a branch of medicine that treats cancer, often with drugs by killing or slowing the growth of the cancer. Medical oncologists are doctors that help patients understand their diagnosis. They recommend treatment options and guide the care of cancer patients. They work with other specialists to develop personal plans of care and help manage pain and discomfort.

TidalHealth’s cancer team includes oncologists, hematologists and internists who provide care for all types of cancer as well as hematological (blood) disorders. Medical oncology treatment options include chemotherapy, biotherapy, and immunotherapy. The center provides infusion services and transfusion services based on a patient’s individualized treatment plan

Infusion treatments are given in a calm and healing environment. Refreshments, private televisions and seating for guests make time in treatment as comfortable as possible.

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Clinical Trials 

Access to clinical trials is a benefit for patients and their families being treated at TidalHealth. It offers a chance to try the latest treatment and technology. Clinical trial nurses discuss cancer prevention, treatment, quality of life and survivorship with patients.

TidalHealth Peninsula Regional is one of three hospitals in Maryland — and the only Eastern Shore hospital — accepted into the elite Johns Hopkins Clinical Research Network. We also participate in National Cancer Institute and pharmaceutical-sponsored studies. 

Learn more by visiting our TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Research Institute page. 

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Screenings

Mammograms

TidalHealth offers 3D mammography, also known as digital tomosynthesis, one of the most advanced imaging technologies available for the early detection of breast cancer. This technology uses lower radiation doses, less forceful compression and quicker exam times. 

Breast cancer impacts many women throughout the country, but if detected early, survival rates are about 90% or better. Regular mammograms are recommended for women 40 years of age  and up by the American College of Radiology. Those with a family history of breast cancer may start earlier — 10 years before the age of diagnosis in a first-degree relative, such as a mother or sister. 

Catch breast cancer early and perform self-exams at least once a month. Here’s how:

1. Lie down on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder. 
2. Use the pads of the three middle fingers on your left hand to examine your right breast. 
3. Press using light, medium and firm pressure in a circular motion and follow in an up-and-down pattern. 
4. Feel for changes in your breast, above and below your collarbone and in your armpit area. 
5. Repeat on your left breast. 
6. If you notice a change, call your doctor.

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Lung Cancer Screening

According to the American Lung Association, lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in both men and women in the United States. It causes more deaths than the next three most common cancers combined: colon, breast and prostate. 

TidalHealth offers lung cancer screenings with the use of low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan. This test is offered to people at a high risk for lung cancer. Using much less radiation than a typical CT of the chest, it can detect small nodules, which are not seen on a screening chest x-ray. 

Most insurances cover the host of the screening for those at higher risk. Criteria for most insurances to cover the screening are:

• 55 to 77 years of age
• Current smoker or quit smoking in the past 15 years
• Have a greater than or equal to 30 pack year history — equals 1 pack a day for 30 years
• Do not currently have symptoms for lung cancer
• Have not had a CT chest scan in the last 12 months

To learn more, talk with your healthcare provider. They will help you with the decision-making process and, if you meet the criteria, schedule you for the screening.

For more information, call 410-543-7012 or 1-866-9-CANCER (922-6237).

Colorectal Screening

If you're 50 years old or older, getting a screening test for colorectal cancer could save your life. Colonoscopy is a procedure to look for polyps, abnormal areas, or cancer. Regular screening, beginning at age 50, is the key to preventing colorectal cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that adults age 50 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer.

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Skin Cancer Screening

There is one essential step to take before heading outdoors: apply sunscreen. Many neglect to protect their skin until summertime, but UV rays can cause damage year-round. 

TidalHealth dermatology experts donate their time throughout the year to provide free skin cancer screenings to Delmarva residents. Our team teaches the community about prevention of skin cancer and encourages early detection. 

For more information on upcoming skin cancer screening events, call 410-543-7006 or 1-866-9-CANCER (922-6237).

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Diagnosis 

The first step in your cancer journey is diagnosis, and it’s important to ensure that diagnosis is as quick and accurate as possible.

Step One: Radiology

Radiological images are critical to cancer diagnosis, such as mammograms or CT scans that may find suspicious spots. Doctors trained in reading these images, called radiologists, are an important part of the process.

Step Two: Biopsy

When a routine screening or a doctor’s physical exam has found an area of concern, the next step is usually a biopsy. A biopsy is a sample of the tissue your doctor suspects may be cancerous; a pathologist will look at the tissue under a microscope and examine to find out whether the cells are cancerous or not.

There are many types of biopsies; they may be performed by a surgeon or other specialist. In the case of a colonoscopy, the biopsy may be performed at the same time as the screening if your gastroenterologist sees a growth that needs examination. Needle biopsies, which are used to get a sample of tissue from inside your body, will be performed using CT scans or ultrasounds at the same time, so doctors can make sure they are sampling the right spot.

Some of the procedures that we offer to diagnose and stage cancer include:

CT Scan
A computed tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays to make detailed pictures of structures inside the body.

Spiral CT Scan
Creates more detailed pictures and may be better at finding small abnormal areas inside the body. It may be used to help diagnose disease, plan treatment, or find out how well treatment is working.

MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures that are inside the body.

Ultrasound
Also called sonography, it uses sound waves to develop ultrasound images of what’s going on inside the body. An instrument called a transducer emits high-frequency sound, inaudible to human ears, and then records echoes as the sound waves bounce back. This helps determine the size, shape and consistency of soft tissues and organs.

Bronchoscopy
Allows a doctor to view a patient’s throat, larynx, trachea and lower airways and remove small samples of tissue if necessary.

Endoscopic Ultrasound Guided Fine Needle Aspiration
In this type of biopsy procedure, a thin needle is inserted into an area of abnormal appearing tissue or body fluid. As with other types of biopsies, the sample collected during fine needle aspiration can help make a diagnosis or rule out conditions such as cancer.

Mediastinoscopy
This surgery looks at the inside of the upper chest between and in front of the lungs.

Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy
Using technology similar to a GPS, this bronchoscopic technique promises accurate navigation to peripheral pulmonary target lesions.

Stereotactic (Non-Surgical) Breast Biopsies
Doctors use X-ray to guide a needle to the biopsy site to remove samples of breast tissue.

Ultrasound Guided (Non-Surgical) Breast Biopsies
Using ultrasound as a guide for correct placement, a needle is placed into the potential trouble spot in the breast tissue and samples are taken through the needle.

Sentinel Node Location For Biopsy
A surgery that removes lymph node tissue to look for cancer and determine if a known cancer has spread from its original site.

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Multidisciplinary Services & Programs

TidalHealth Breast Center

At the TidalHealth Breast Center, we help people with everything from 3D mammography to breast biopsy procedures to surgical consultations in one location. 

State-of-the-art technology aids us in early detection, and with all specialists under one roof, the amount of time between exam and results is greatly reduced.

Our weekly Multidisciplinary Breast Conference — the only one of its kind in the area — benefits all our patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Experts from the major cancer disciplines including breast surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists and reconstructive surgeons, come together to recommend the best care plan for each patient.

Breast patient navigators are there to help every step of the way. Navigators answer questions about your diagnosis, treatments and help schedule appointments.

Liver & Hepatobiliary Program

Our Liver and Hepatobiliary program at the TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases. Together with Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, MD, Dr. Anurag Maheshwari brings his expertise to Delmarva patients. 

Dr. Maheshwari, a renowned gastroenterology and liver doctor, is Board Certified in Gastroenterology, Transplant Hepatology and Internal Medicine. He is among the preeminent physicians at The Center for Liver and Hepatobiliary Diseases, part of The Melissa L. Posner Institute for Digestive Health and Liver Disease at Mercy. Dr. Maheshwari provides leading edge diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as: Hepatitis A, B and C, Cirrhosis, Alcoholic Liver Disease, Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, and Biliary Cancer. 

For more information, call 410-543-7012. To schedule an appointment, call 410-332-9356. 

Gynecologic Oncology

The gynecologic oncology center at the TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute is dedicated to the detection, diagnosis and treatment of the primary cancers of the female genital tract. We provide exceptional surgical treatment of advanced cancers. More than 90 percent of the gynecological cancer cases diagnosed can be surgically treated here as we offer surgical options not available before in the region. 

Together with Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, MD, Dr. Dwight Im brings his years of experience and surgical expertise treating women's reproductive cancers to Delmarva. As Medical Director of Gynecological Oncology at Mercy Medical Center and the Tidal Health Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute, Dr. Im is one of the region's leading authorities on robotic and minimally invasive surgeries for gynecologic cancers.

 For more information, call 410-860-5311 or 1-866-9-CANCER (922-6237).

Thoracic Oncology

The TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive thoracic oncology program to evaluate patients with lung and esophageal disorders. Our program brings together cancer specialists dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care focused on personal diagnosis and treatment plans. Our patients get access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities. This multidisciplinary approach means patients receive diagnosis and treatment as quickly as possible in collaboration with experts from a variety of specialties. 

For more information, call 410-543-7012 or 1-866-9-CANCER (922-6237).

Palliative Care

Focusing on the relief of pain, symptoms, and stress, improves the lives of patients and families facing serious illness. Whatever the diagnosis, our goal in palliative care is to help people live comfortably and to provide the best possible quality of life for everyone involved.

For more information about palliative care, visitor our Palliative Care page.

Fittings by Michele

Fittings by Michele, a Women’s Wellness Boutique, serves women’s special healthcare and personal care needs by offering the newest, most innovative products and services available. 

TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute partners with Fittings by Michele to offer these specialized services locally. It includes services and products needed following chemotherapy, radiation, mastectomy, lumpectomy, biopsy, reconstruction, and implant removal surgeries. It also offers compression garments for vascular disorders, burns and other edema-related disorders. 

For more information, call 410-543-7012. To schedule an appointment, call 410-255-0800.

Resource Library

At TidalHealth, we believe knowledge — especially when it comes to cancer — is power. Our resource library offers the latest treatment information from national and local medical journals and other cancer-related publications. Internet search capabilities open up opportunities to research clinical trials and emerging medicine and technologies.

Our resource library is located in the TidalHealth Allen Cancer Center.

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Getting Started

At TidalHealth you are not alone; we help you navigate your diagnosis.

At the first visit, you will meet with one or more of our specialists who will examine you after reviewing your x-rays. A recommendation will be made for diagnostic procedures or other types of follow-up.

Our patients have access to a cancer care nurse navigator and a cancer care coordinator who assist patients and their families through the cancer journey. From answering questions about diagnosis and treatments to scheduling appointments, they are there to help.

When it comes to treatment, surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists work together to create a plan unique to each patient. This team approach means everyone receives diagnosis and care as quickly as possible in collaboration with experts from a variety of specialties.

Our care continues into survivorship, with cancer survivors welcomed into our free programs including support groups, classes and celebrations.

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Your First Visit

We want to make your first visit as stress-free as possible. Please give us a call if you have any questions or concerns. Here is a list that can help prepare you for your first appointment. 

Log on to Your Online Medical Record

Having access to your online medical record helps you keep track of your test results and appointments. Learn about MyChart.

Bring Needed Items

You will need to bring the following items to your first visit:

• One form of valid photo identification (driver’s license, state ID, military ID or passport)
• Current insurance card(s)
• A list of your current physicians with addresses and phone numbers
• A detailed list of your medications (prescribed, over-the-counter and herbals) including:
  • Why you take them
  • Dose amount
  • How often you take them
• Your pharmacy’s contact information
• A list of your allergies
• Medical Power of Attorney and Living Will, if completed
• Any additional information your care team member asked you to bring

You may need to bring other items but we will let you know ahead of time. You may get a packet in the mail that includes a medical history form and other items. Please fill this out in advance and bring with you, along with anything else your care team requested.

Check Insurance Coverage

View our list of accepted health insurance plans to see if you are covered. If you do not have insurance or need financial assistance, we can help. You can find out about participating providers and financial assistance by visiting our Billing page.

What To Expect When You Get Here

TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute
When you arrive, please enter through the TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute entrance, accessible via the corner of Route 13 (South Salisbury Boulevard) and East Vine Street.

Free valet parking is available at our entrance until 3 pm (our security team will get your car for you if you leave after 3 pm). You may also park in one of the nearby lots on Vine Street.

Once inside the TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute, check in at the front desk and we’ll let you know which way to go. If you have an appointment at TidalHealth Hematology & Oncology, please take the lobby elevator to the third floor. If your appointment is at our Thoracic Oncology Clinic, Palliative Care Clinic, Gynecologic Oncology Clinic, Liver & Hepatobiliary Program, or Fittings by Michele services, please take the elevator to the second floor.

TidalHealth Allen Cancer Center
When you arrive, please use the main entrance to the TidalHealth Allen Cancer Center.  

Free parking is located throughout the health campus, but the parking garage is the closest to the cancer center. 

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Resources and Support

We offer many support programs to help during your cancer journey. This includes support groups, counseling, education and social activities for people and their families dealing with a cancer diagnosis. All are free of charge by licensed specialists. 

TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute Programs

Support Groups

• Survivor/Patient/Caregiver Support Group
• Head and Neck Cancer Group
• Prostate cancer Support Group
• Free Counseling Sessions

Social Activities

• Lunch Bunch
• Stitch Therapy
• Annual Christmas Party
• National Cancer Survivor Day Celebration

Healthy Living for Cancer Patients and Survivors

• Tai Chi
• Healing Seated Yoga
• Exercise Program
• Healthy Cooking Classes

For more information about any of the above activities, or to participate, call 410-543-7209.

TidalHealth Allen Cancer Center Programs

Support Groups

• Cancer Support Group
• Breast Cancer Support Group
• Breast Cancer Peer Mentoring Support Program

Social Activities

• Breast Cancer Survivor’s Tea Party
• Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer Awareness Walk
• Shine A Light on Lung Cancer
• National Cancer Survivor Day Celebration

Healthy Living for Cancer Patients and Survivors

• Chair Yoga

Program Location

TidalHealth Allen Cancer Center
701 Middleford Road
Seaford, DE 19973
302-628-6344

For more information about any of the above activities, or to participate, call 302-629-6611 ext. 2577.

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Additional Services

TidalHealth Peninsula Regional Warrior Stance Online Journaling Project

We follow a group of cancer patients from the time of diagnosis for about 12 to 18 months. Participants agree to write in an online personal journal at least once a week. The goal is to gather everything experienced, not just in treatment, but also in day-to-day life as a person in cancer care. The entries help provide a guide for new cancer patients.

If you'd like to participate, email [email protected].

Pastoral Care

Cancer care involves treating the whole patient – mind, body and spirit. Chaplains are available to offer both emotional and spiritual support to patients and their families. As an emotional and spiritual resource, chaplains understand concerns of cancer patients and help them cope with the emotional stress they often experience. Support includes listening to patients, answering questions and offering counseling, scripture and prayer as requested. 

For more information or to speak with a chaplain at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, call 410-543-7157.

For more information or to speak with a chaplain at TidalHealth Nanticoke, call 302-629-6611  ext. 4955.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Our outpatient program includes exercise and education to return each patient to an optimal level of physical, psychological, social and vocational well-being. 

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation team includes:

• Your physician
• Physician Medical Program Director
• Exercise Physiologists
• Nurses
• Dietitians
• Respiratory Therapists
• Allied Health Professionals  

Our team works together with you and your family to design a program that meets your needs and abilities. 

For more information about Pulmonary Rehabilitation, call 410-543-7026, Salisbury; 410-912-6108, Ocean Pines; 302-629-6611 ext. 2428, Seaford.

Lymphedema Management

Some cancer treatments can cause swelling in your arms or legs called lymphedema. TidalHealth offers treatment options that can help reduce, delay and prevent the progression of lymphedema. Care is given by specially-trained and certified therapists who understand this potential side effect of cancer treatment. A personal treatment program is made for each patient so they have the information and skills for self-management of lymphedema. 

For more information about Lymphedema Management, call 410-543-7069, Salisbury; 302-629-6224, Seaford.

Nutritional Support

Proper nutrition can boost the benefits of treatment and improve patient comfort during treatment. Healthy foods, especially those high in protein and calories, help maintain weight and improve strength and energy levels. Our registered dietitian helps patients and family make personal, cost-effective, evidence-based nutrition care plans. 

For more information about Nutritional Support, call 410-543-7006 or 1-866-9-CANCER (922-6237), Salisbury; 302-629-6611 ext. 2288, Seaford.

TidalHealth Peninsula Regional Cancer Rehabilitation & Exercise Program

The Cancer Exercise Program at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional is conducted in the Cardiovascular/Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Preventive Cardiology Department. Participants exercise under the supervision of an exercise physiologist specifically certified in cancer exercise rehabilitation. Our goal is to provide a safe and effective exercise program for patients currently receiving treatment or survivors. 

For more information, call 410-912-6163 for the Salisbury location or 410-912-6108 to reach TidalHealth’s Adult Fitness Program in Ocean Pines.

For more information about Cancer Rehabilitation and Exercise at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional, call 410-543-7026.

For more information about Cancer Rehabilitation and Exercise at TidalHealth Ocean Pines Campus, call 410-912-6108.

TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute Cancer Survivorship Program

A Cancer Survivor is any person living with, through, and beyond cancer. There are more than 14 million cancer survivors in the United States. 

The Institute of Medicine recommends that every cancer patient receive an individualized survivorship care plan with guidelines that help patients monitor and maintain their health.  

Our care team provides a full Treatment Summary and Survivorship Care Plan with recommendations and guidelines that help survivors manage personal needs and challenges after cancer treatment. It contains information on topics like: 

• Summary of treatment received
• Information about ongoing treatment ordered or needed
• Follow-up care plan to include a schedule for clinical visits, cancer surveillance or other related tests
• Long term side effect management
• Recommended healthy lifestyle behaviors 

For more information, call 410-543-7209 or 1-866-9-CANCER (922-6237).

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Online & Community Resources

When researching your condition online, beware of inaccurate or misleading information from untrustworthy sources or advertisers. Even on trusted websites, it’s important to know that it’s general information that may not apply to you. It should not take the place of medical advice.

American Cancer Society
410-749-1624
Includes information about diagnosis, treatment and survivorship, and information about staying healthy.

American Cancer Society’s Cancer Survivors Network
1-800-227-2345
A place to connect with others who have been diagnosed with similar cancers.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
1-800-232-4636
Includes information about many different types of cancer.

National Cancer Institute
1-800-4-CANCER
A source for patients to learn about specific types of cancer and different treatments, as well as the latest research and clinical trials.

Women Supporting Women
410-548-7880
A local nonprofit organization that helps women through their journey with breast cancer.

Association of Community Cancer Centers
301-984-9496

Breast Reconstruction Insurance/Finance Information:
Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act

Breast Reconstructive Surgeons:
Peninsula Plastic Surgery
Atlantic Plastic Surgery
Dr. Robert Davis

Cancer Care Connection
1-866-266-7008

Cancer Care, Inc.
1-800-813-HOPE

Cancer Support Community of DE
302-645-9150

Compassionate Care Hospice
302-856-2659

Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition
302-644-6844

Delaware Hospice
302-856-7717

Delaware Pain Initiative
302-981-0041

Lance Armstrong Foundation
1-877-236-8820

National Coalition for Survivorship
1-877-NCCS-YES

Oncolink

Season’s Hospice & Palliative Care
1-866-443-9856

Screening for Life
1-800-464-4357

Susan G. Komen
1-877-GO-KOMEN

Vitas
1-800-938-4827

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Referring Physicians 

TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute offers referring physician practices assistance through the Physician Access Line. Through this service, we will assist you with:

• Referral status assistance
• Information about our programs
• Clinical trial Information
  • Clinical Trials for Breast Cancer 
  • Clinical Trials for Lung Cancer
  • Clinical Trials for Prostate Cancer 
  • Clinical Trials for Other Cancers 
• Any concerns or issues that affect the referring physician experience

The Physician Access Line can help physicians refer their patients to the TidalHealth Richard A. Henson Cancer Institute and identify the appropriate staff to facilitate prompt scheduling. Call for assistance at 410-543-7006 or 1-866-922-6237 or email us at [email protected].

A representative will contact you within 48 hours (two business days) with the status of your request.