The two Heartland Cancer Centers (HCCs) now have one director who oversees all aspects of patient care and coordinates all administrative duties.

          Becky Troyer, who brings an extensive background to the new position, splits her time between HCC in Great Bend and HCC in Garden City.

          “I am responsible for all aspects of these great facilities,” Troyer said. “This includes ensuring patients are comfortable in nice surroundings, the quality of treatments and follow-up care.

          “It is exciting to be part of something so important for central and western Kansas,” Troyer continued. “Patients don’t have to be inconvenienced by travel when we can provide the same quality services as large metropolitan areas at our local cancer centers.”

          The new director also noted that the HCCs offer support to patients seeking second opinions. However, she emphasized, the stress of travel to Kansas City, Wichita or elsewhere is not usually necessary.

          “Our partnership with the Midwest Cancer Alliance (MCA) connects us to The University of Kansas Cancer Center for second opinions by interactive televideo and other forms of communication,” Troyer explained. “MCA also allows us the ability to engage patients in clinical trials and offers continuing education for our staff and providers.

          “In addition,” she noted, “the cancer centers participate in tumor boards through KU. This gives our physicians the ability to network and improve their access to additional oncology resources.”

          Troyer pointed out that the HCCs follow the same guidelines as larger centers, while offering the same treatments as almost any other facility in the country. If a unique situation arises, “our oncologists and staff will arrange for you to be seen at a prominent institution such as MD Anderson or the Mayo Clinic,” she said.

          The recent joint venture with Centura Health also will result in collaboration with additional cancer specialists. “Centura’s sincere desire to enhance the practice of oncology will bring innovative solutions,” she commented.

          Centura is the umbrella organization for St. Rose Ambulatory & Surgery Center in Great Bend and St. Catherine Hospital in Garden City. The HCCs at both locations are expanding.

          “Our fundamental belief is that patients should not have to travel when they can receive the best care in their own backyard,” Troyer summarized. “Our physicians and staff are invested in their local communities and therefore invested in the care they provide their neighbors.”

          Troyer recently earned a doctorate in healthcare administration and leadership from the Medical University of South Carolina College of Health Professions. She also has a master’s in business administration from the University of Maryland University College, along with a bachelor’s in management of health services from Ottawa (Ks.) University.

          Her extensive background includes a position at the American College of Radiology; Troyer has served as a radiation therapist all over the country and has years of management experience.

          She is originally from the Washington, D.C., area but wanted to come to Kansas. “I was seeking a community with old-fashioned values and good schools to raise my twins,” she said. “My family and I believe it was the best decision we ever made.”