New Gynecologic Oncology Services Advance Patient Care September 10, 2024 The Samaritan Cancer Program has expanded its specialty services to include gynecologic oncology care, further advancing care options for patients diagnosed with cancers of the cervix, uterus or ovaries. “This is a vital service for patients in our community,” said Anne Webb, regional director of the Samaritan Cancer Program. Gynecologic oncology care gives patients access to specialized surgery, follow-up care, surveillance and additional treatments as needed. Plus, keeping care close to home can help ease recovery by having nearby support systems, which are often needed after a cancer diagnosis. “Adding this service also meant bringing on top talent who are highly skilled and specialized in this field, which we have achieved with gynecologic oncologists Andrea Buras, MD, and Erica Takimoto, DO,” Webb said. Together, Drs. Takimoto and Buras and their team will manage cancerous and non-cancerous conditions of the female reproductive system. This may include minimally invasive surgeries, lymph node dissections and diagnostics, debulking and risk reduction surgery for patients who are at high risk for developing gynecologic cancer. They can also prescribe chemotherapy if needed. The gynecologic oncology team also will collaborate with other medical specialties including medical and radiation oncology, plus other care team members to ensure comprehensive care. “The addition of this service reinforces Samaritan’s commitment to advancing cancer care in our communities and for our patients,” Webb said. Meet the New Gynecologic Oncology Providers Dr. Buras (top photo) has special interest in complex pelvic surgery, heritable genetic conditions and HPV-related disease. Dr. Takimoto (bottom photo) specializes in robot-assisted pelvic surgery to treat cancer of the cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries, as well as vulvar and vaginal surgery.
