Trinity Health Of New England has engaged the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute to assess its oncology program, with the intent of becoming a member of the Dana-Farber Cancer Care Collaborative by January 2027. This engagement aims to provide clinical support services as the relationship is developed collaboratively.
The assessment phase, which is conducted over the next several months, will involve Dana-Farber providing clinical support services. The partnership is framed as an effort in line with Trinity Health Of New England’s priorities regarding continuity of care and continued investment in oncology services.
Clinical Integration and Support
The collaboration is designed to provide Trinity Health Of New England’s physicians with resources to manage oncology cases. The initial phase of the relationship focuses on medical oncology and clinical advisory support. This includes providing access to Dana-Farber subspecialty expertise, including access to tumor boards and office hours to review patient cases.
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Beyond direct patient case reviews, the agreement establishes a framework for professional development. This involves the sharing of best practices, access to educational lectures and symposia, and program development initiatives. The goal is to ensure that the actual delivery of care remains with the local teams.
Leadership Perspective
Dr. Steven Hanks, president and CEO of Trinity Health Of New England, described the move as a foundational step toward long-term clinical excellence. “We are building an oncology program that is locally led, regionally integrated, and designed for long-term growth and clinical excellence for years to come,” Hanks said. He noted that the health system foresees a strong future as a collaborative member of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute once their assessment and diligence process is completed.
Dr. Robert Roose, president of Saint Francis Hospital, Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital, Mercy Medical Center, Johnson Memorial Hospital, and Saint Mary’s Hospital, emphasized that the patient experience will remain consistent. “Care will continue to be delivered locally by the trusted physicians and care teams who serve our communities every day,” Roose stated. He added that the organization remains committed to retaining and recruiting top clinical talent, strengthening the workforce, and investing in the people, programs, and infrastructure required to build a premier oncology service line.
What Happens Next
The transition toward formal membership in the Dana-Farber Cancer Care Collaborative is a process. As the assessment phase continues, Trinity Health Of New England will work through the development of the relationship. The deadline for becoming a member is January 2027.
Future updates regarding the progress of the assessment and the implementation of clinical advisory services are expected to be provided by the health system as they reach key operational milestones. Readers are encouraged to monitor official communications from Trinity Health Of New England for further developments.