Greg Nanney, M.D., realizes his patients will have a difficult time – at least for a little while. But he also believes they will make the adjustment successfully.
Dr. Nanney, oncologist, has been treating patients at Heartland Cancer Center since it opened almost seven years ago. He is moving to Springfield, Mo., and his last day to see patients here will be Sept. 23.
A community reception is set for 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 23 at the cancer center, 204 Cleveland, which is owned by Central Kansas Medical Center. Patients, their families and the public are invited.
“I definitely understand the difficultly in losing a patient/physician relationship that has lasted many months or even many years,” Dr. Nanney said. “I know how traumatic that can be.
“But I have been blessed with patients that are well-read and knowledgeable about their disease and are involved in the development of their treatment plans,” Dr. Nanney noted. “I really feel they will be able to go on because of their strength and the stability of the staff here at Heartland.”
Dr. Gayle Roberts, oncologist based in Hutchinson, will join the HCC staff. His first week will overlap with Dr. Nanney’s last week.
“This great staff will still be here to help make the transition as seamless as possible,” Dr. Nanney said. “They will coordinate with Dr. Roberts and the other physicians to continue providing the best care and treatment.
“Dr. Roberts comes with outstanding letters of recommendation,” Dr. Nanney added, noting his patients have been notified of the changes. “He is a compassionate professional who will take great care of his patients and their families.”
Other HCC oncologists available to patients are Mark Fesen, M.D., Claudia Perez-Tamayo, M.D., and Fadi Estephan, M.D.
“This is a great team,” Dr. Nanney commented. “Cancer patients can be assured of the highest quality treatment.
“The Heartland Cancer Center is a gem of a facility,” Dr. Nanney elaborated. “You cannot find a better place to coordinate cancer care in this area. This facility provides a nicer, more open space than most places patients go for cancer treatment. It truly is a huge gift to the community.”
Dr. Nanney, who has been based in Hutchinson, accepted a position at the St. John Clinic at the Chub O’Reilly Cancer Center in Springfield. Dr. Roberts is from Mesa, Ariz.
Jamie Hutchinson, R.N. and HCC director, said Dr. Nanney will be missed not only by his patients but by the staff and the community.
“I have worked with him since I started in oncology 15 years ago,” Hutchinson said. “While all of us are sad that he is leaving, we know that this isn’t easy for Dr. Nanney either. This was probably one of the hardest decisions he has ever had to make. It is obvious he will miss everyone here.
“Nevertheless, we are excited to begin our relationship with Dr. Roberts,” Hutchinson added. “He understands how our patients are feeling and will do all he can to make this a smooth transition.”
