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February 11, 2008
"ROSA is pleased to congratulate Dr. Scott Dahlbeck on his recent accomplishment of his research being accepted for presentation at the World Congress of Brachytherapy, May 4 - 6, 2008." Dr. Dahlbeck and the team at the Lubbock Cancer Center can be proud of their part in constantly striving for excellence in patient care.''
OUTPATIENT HDR BRACHYTHERAPY IN COMBINATION WITH IMRT AND IGRT +/- ADT IN THE TREATMENT OF LOW, INTERMEDIATE, AND HIGH RISK PROSTATE CANCER
Scott Dahlbeck, MD, PhD,1 Jui-Lien Chou, MD,1 Bradley Prestidge, MD.2 1Radiation Oncology, Lubbock Cancer Center, Lubbock, TX; 2Radiation Oncology, Texas Cancer Clinic, San Antonio, TX.- Purpose: We report the early experience of a free-standing community cancer center with the treatment of low, intermediate, and high risk prostate cancer patients with the combination of outpatient HDR brachytherapy and IMRT with IGRT +/- ADT in regards to biochemical control, acute/chronic toxicity, and sexual potency.
Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 68 patients who received both HDR and IMRT plus IGRT. Patients who received ADT were also included for analysis (20% of patients). Standard risk definitions utilized (low = PSA<10, Gleason<7, and cs<T2b; intermediate = PSA10-20, Gleason7, or csT2b-T2c; high = PSA>20, Gleason>7, or cs>T2c). The HDR component consisted of 600cGy BID which was repeated in one week for a total of four 600cGy HDR treatments given either before or after a 2 week break between the HDR and an IMRT regimen of 4140-4500cGy in 180cGy fractions. No patient received whole pelvis radiation therapy. The median age was 76 years (range 52-84). Biochemical failure was defined as nadir plus 2ng/ml.
- Results: With a median follow-up of 24 months (range 4-46), cause specific survival=100% and overall survival=96%. The overall biochemical control rate (BCR)=95% for all risk groups (96%, 96% and 92% for low, intermediate, and high risk groups respectively). Non-ADT median PSA=0.5ng/ml with a median f/u = 19 months and an overall BCR=94% (95%, 95%, and 85% for low, intermediate, and high risk groups respectively). ADT median PSA=0.02ng/ml with a median f/u = 32 months (short term median treatment 6 months, range 3-12 months, 100% neoadjuvant/concurrent ADT and 43% with additional adjuvant ADT) and an overall BCR=100% for all risk categories. Compared to non-ADT patients, ADT patients
Conclusions: The combination of outpatient HDR and IMRT plus IGRT is feasible and well tolerated in the community outpatient setting with excellent biochemical control, minimal acute/chronic toxicity, and excellent sexual potency rates (especially for patients <70). A potential benefit is seen with short-term ADT when adminstered in combination with HDR and IMRT, resulting in lower PSA levels, slightly lower acute/chronic toxicity, and improved overall biochemical control rate.
June 8, 2007
Radiation Oncology Services of America, Inc.
Radiation Oncology Associates of the South Plains Celebrates National Cancer Survivors Day
Lubbock, Texas (June 8, 2007) - - In honor of National Cancer Survivors Day, Radiation Oncology Associates of the South Plains invited all of their alumni cancer survivors and their families for an evening of celebration at the Lubbock Cancer Center. National Cancer Survivors Day is an annual, worldwide “Celebration of Life” that is held in hundreds of communities throughout the United States, Canada, and other participating countries. Participants unite in this symbolic event to show the world that life after a cancer diagnosis can be a reality. This is the 20th year of such a celebration, and in such time, National Cancer Survivors Day has become the world’s largest and fastest-growing annual cancer survivor event. By hosting an event like this, Radiation Oncology Associates joined hundreds of other cancer-related organizations, hospitals, and support groups in providing free guidance, education, and networking.
The celebration at the Lubbock Cancer Center was attended by many survivors and their families. While the appetizers and desserts were being enjoyed, old friends were reacquainted, and new friendships were made. Many past patients gave tours of the center to their families, letting them get a visual idea of what their loved ones went through on a daily basis. Two floral arrangements, donated by a current patient, were awarded to the Survivors of the Day, and artwork painted by a survivor’s spouse was on display for everyone to enjoy. The center was further decorated by arrangements sent from survivors and community businesses that wanted to participate in the celebration. One survivor expressed his gratitude with hugs for the therapists and sharing his thoughts, “I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for you ladies. It truly takes a special person to do what you do.”
“I’ll see you next year!” was the popular quote of the event. Dr. Lillian Chou, Radiation Oncologist /Medical Director of ROSA of the South Plains, LLC, had a very personal and emotional response to this celebration of life. As a cancer survivor herself, Dr. Chou understands the gratitude and emotional feelings that “one more year” can mean to a cancer survivor. “Having had a diagnosis of cancer and undergone treatment, I have appreciated the overwhelming support and love that I received from my patients and staff. This process of healing has reinforced my own goal of achieving the Center’s motto, serving our community with excellence,” stated Dr. Chou.
“We’ll see you next year!”
June 1, 2007
Radiation Oncology Services of America, Inc.
NAMES ACTING CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER
Nashville, Tennessee (June 1, 2007) - - Radiation Oncology Services of America, Inc. (ROSA) announced today that it has appointed Erich Graham Randolph, M.D., to the position of Acting Chief Medical Officer.
Dr. Randolph is a board certified radiation oncologist who practices in Atlanta, Georgia. He is a member of the board of American Professional Associates, PC, which does business as Atlanta Oncology Associates. Atlanta Oncology Associates provides professional services to eight radiation treatment facilities in the metropolitan Atlanta area, elsewhere in Georgia and in the Florida panhandle. As a medical director for Atlanta Oncology Associates, Dr. Randolph oversees the delivery of state-of-the-art radiation therapy to patients.
“Dr. Randolph brings a wealth of expertise to ROSA, including his leadership roles in local and national organizations, as well as his leadership role with Atlanta Oncology Associates,” said Timothy P. Martin, President and Chief Executive Officer of ROSA. “We look forward to working with Dr. Randolph as we create a national clinical enterprise with leading radiation oncologists.”
Dr. Randolph has also served as Vice-Chair of the Grady Hospital – Fulton Dekalb Hospital Authority. Dr. Randolph is president of the Atlanta Medical Association and a member of the Medical Association of Atlanta, the National Medical Association, The Gilbert H. Fletcher Society, and the American Society of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology. Dr. Randolph has also been on an American Cancer Society advisory board.
Dr. Randolph earned his medical degree from Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. Following graduation, he interned at Emory University Affiliated Hospitals and completed a residency in Internal Medicine before completing his fellowship training in radiotherapy at the University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. His special interests are the treatment of prostate, breast, and colorectal cancers.
Dr. Randolph said, “I am very excited to be joining a team of seasoned healthcare executives who have proven themselves capable of working in partnership with physicians to achieve success by delivering high-quality medical care to patients.”
As the Acting Chief Medical Officer for ROSA, Dr. Randolph will work with ROSA’s management team and other physician leaders better to define the role of ROSA’s Chief Medical Officer. Part of this effort will be the creation of the initial Medical Advisory Board for ROSA.
Radiation Oncology Services of America was founded in 2006 and is led by a management team with a strong record of success in health care services. Timothy Martin, President and Chief Executive Officer of ROSA, was Chief Operating Officer of Renal Care Group, Inc. (NYSE:RCI) when Fresenius Medical Care acquired it for $4.0 billion in March of 2006. Several other former Renal Care Group executives have joined Mr. Martin at ROSA and its sister companies, Cardiovascular Services of America, Inc. and Renal Services of America, Inc. All three companies have the financial backing of MedCare Investment Fund III, Ltd.
May 1, 2007
Radiation Oncology Services of America, Inc.
Joint Venture with Radiation Oncology of the South Plains, PA
Nashville, Tennessee (May 1, 2007) - - Radiation Oncology Services of America, Inc. (ROSA) announced today that it has completed the formation of ROSA of the South Plains, LLC, its second joint venture to provide outpatient radiation oncology services. ROSA of the South Plains is a joint venture between Radiation Oncology Services of America and Radiation Oncology of the South Plains, PA. It will own and operate a radiation treatment facility in Lubbock, Texas.
ROSA of the South Plains' facility will offer state-of-the-art cancer treatment services, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) and high-dose-rate brachytherapy. The joint venture also provides access to PET/CT, the most state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment planning imaging technology available for cancer care. Jui-Lien Lillian Chou, M.D. and Scott Dahlbeck, M.D., Pharm.D., both of Radiation Oncology of the South Plains, PA, will serve as medical directors for ROSA of the South Plains.
"Dr. Dahlbeck and I carefully selected ROSA as a partner. We feel confident that we can work with our associates and ROSA to continue the rich tradition of providing state-of-the-art technology and high-quality cancer care to the patients we serve," said Jui-Lien Lillian Chou, M.D., President of Radiation Oncology of the South Plains, PA.
Radiation Oncology Services of America was founded in 2006 and is led by a management team with a strong record of success in health care services. Timothy Martin, President and Chief Executive Officer of ROSA, was Chief Operating Officer of Renal Care Group, Inc. (NYSE:RCI) when Fresenius Medical Care acquired it for $4.0 billion in March of 2006. Several other former Renal Care Group executives have joined Mr. Martin at ROSA and its sister companies, Cardiovascular Services of America, Inc. and Renal Services of America, Inc. All three companies have the financial backing of MedCare Investment Fund III, Ltd.
"I am excited about working with Dr. Chou and her colleagues to build a clinically-focused, physician-driven culture at ROSA and to provide high-quality care to patients in the South Plains area of Texas," said Mr. Martin. "I believe we have a tremendous opportunity to work in partnership with physicians in the radiation oncology field to build a national leader in outpatient radiation oncology therapy."
March 31, 2007
Radiation Oncology Services of America, Inc.
Completes Joint Venture with American Oncology Associates, LLC
Nashville, Tennessee (March 31, 2007) - - Radiation Oncology Services of America, Inc. (ROSA) announced today that it has completed the formation of ROSA of Georgia, LLC, its first joint venture to provide outpatient radiation oncology services. ROSA of Georgia is a joint venture between Radiation Oncology Services of America and American Oncology Associates, LLC. It will own and operate eight radiation treatment facilities in the metropolitan Atlanta area, elsewhere in Georgia and in the Florida panhandle.
ROSA of Georgia's facilities will offer state-of-the-art cancer treatment services, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) and high-dose-rate brachytherapy. Four of ROSA of Georgia's facilities are affiliated with the Georgia Center for Total Cancer Care, the largest provider of oncology/hematology services in the Southeast and a national leader in cancer treatment and research. American Professional Associates, LLC - - a physician practice including 12 radiation oncologists - - will be medical director of the facilities and will provide physician services to patients being treated at the facilities.
"Partnership with ROSA offers us a unique opportunity to be part of the development of a clinical legacy," said Dale McCord, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of American Professional Associates and American Oncology Associates. "By focusing on providing high-quality clinical outcomes driven by evidence-based care, ROSA will share the knowledge and best practices of leaders in radiation oncology across a national network of physicians. We look forward to working with ROSA to raise the clinical performance bar for everyone."
Radiation Oncology Services of America was founded in 2006 and is led by a management team with a strong record of success in health care services. Timothy Martin, President and Chief Executive Officer of ROSA, was Chief Operating Officer of Renal Care Group, Inc. (NYSE:RCI) when Fresenius Medical Care acquired it for $4.0 billion in March of 2006. Several other former Renal Care Group executives have joined Mr. Martin at ROSA and its sister companies, Cardiovascular Services of America, Inc. and Renal Services of America, Inc. All three companies have the financial backing of MedCare Investment Fund III, Ltd.
"I am very pleased that we have completed the formation of ROSA of Georgia and am excited about working with Dr. McCord and his colleagues to build a clinically-focused, physician-driven culture at ROSA," said Mr. Martin. "I believe we have a tremendous opportunity to work in partnership with physicians in the radiation oncology field to deliver high-quality cancer care to patients and build a national leader in outpatient radiation oncology therapy."
November 6, 2006
PREMIER RADIATION ONCOLOGISTS PARTNER WITH VETERAN HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT TEAM TO LAUNCH NEW OUTPATIENT SERVICES COMPANY
New company enters unconsolidated radiation oncology space
Philadelphia, Penn., and Nashville, Tenn. - Leading regional radiation oncologists are partnering with seasoned ambulatory care executives in the formation of a new national clinical enterprise focused on the delivery of outpatient radiation oncology services.
With financial partnership from MedCare Investment Fund III, Ltd. and a leadership team with proven ambulatory services management experience, Radiation Oncology Services of America (ROSA) will utilize an innovative, physician-oriented business model to create a national network of outpatient radiation oncology centers.
The formation of the company was announced today at the annual conference of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiation and Oncology in Philadelphia, and from the company's corporate headquarters in Nashville, Tenn.
ROSA's founding partners include physicians associated with two premier providers of radiation oncology services located in Florida, Georgia and Tennessee. All of the founding ROSA centers offer state-of-the art services including intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) and high-dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy.
Atlanta Oncology Associates (AOA) own eight treatment centers located throughout the Metropolitan Atlanta area, Georgia and the Florida panhandle. Four AOA facilities are affiliated with the Georgia Center for Total Cancer Care, the largest private oncology/hematology practice in the Southeast and a national leader in advanced cancer treatment and research.
"Partnership with ROSA offers us a unique opportunity to be part of the development of a clinical legacy," said AOA President and Chief Executive Officer Dale McCord, M.D. "By focusing on providing quality outcomes driven by evidenced-based care, ROSA will share the knowledge and best practices of leaders in the radiation oncology field across a national network of physician providers. We will raise the bar for everyone."
William D. Permenter, M.D., founder and medical director for Cancer Care Centers in the West Tennessee communities of Jackson, Dyersburg and Paris, is also a ROSA founding partner.
"I look forward to working with my colleagues to develop a patient-focused national clinical enterprise designed to deliver the highest quality of care in the industry," said Dr. Permenter. "Through insight and a vision for future development in our rapidly changing field, we will be forging a very unique network."
Collectively, these providers represent 11 radiation treatment facilities and 18 radiation oncologists.
The U.S. radiation therapy market - estimated at $7 billion a year - is a highly unconsolidated industry. With approximately 2,000 freestanding or hospital-based centers offering radiation therapy, no single company currently owns more than five percent of the country's radiation centers; the three largest providers combined account for less than 10 percent of the total market.
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in United States, with 1.4 million new cases expected to be diagnosed this year. Approximately 60 percent of cancer patients are treated with radiation therapy.
ROSA's management team brings a wealth of experience and a record of success in ambulatory healthcare services. ROSA co-founder, President and CEO Tim Martin was chief operating officer of Renal Care Group (NYSE:RCI), a successful physician-oriented dialysis services company that was acquired earlier this year by the German company Fresenius for $4 billion.
"I am very pleased that several of my colleagues from Renal Care have joined me in this exciting new venture," said Martin. "Focusing on evidence-based care and quality outcomes–which are best achieved in partnership with dedicated physicians–is a model that worked for Renal Care and will work here as well."
July 2006
ROSA Founders' Meeting Held in Nashville
Leading radiation oncologists representing more than 30 radiation oncology centers across the country recently came to Nashville to discuss the vision of ROSA: to create a national clinical enterprise whose purpose is to be the quality benchmark in outpatient radiation oncology. The theme for the day was "A Commitment to Quality through Physician Leadership". This point was emphasized by the presentation of the structure for ROSA's Medical Advisory Board (MAB). ROSA's MAB is a collection of physicians providing care in local communities whose role will be to provide leadership and direction to ensure the patients in ROSA centers are receiving access to the safest and highest quality treatments available in radiation oncology. To accomplish this objective, the MAB will carry out its purpose using evidence-based medicine standards of care.
Providing the best care can also produce the proper financial rewards for physician partners. President and CEO Timothy P. Martin used a portion of the day to share with the group some of the recent success of this management team's work in another outpatient, physician-partnered segment of healthcare – dialysis services. Renal Care Group was recognized all the way up to its 2006 sale to Fresenius Medical Care as the gold standard in quality dialysis services and being a physician-friendly company. RCG pioneered many of the quality measurements used to this day in outpatient dialysis. With the cooperation between management and a similarly structured Medical Advisory Board, RCG regularly led the industry in % of patients with hematocrits above 33, lowest hospitalization rates, and % of patients with arterio-venous fistula access sites. This delivery of outstanding medical care to dialysis patients also led to the best financial measurements in the dialysis industry: highest EBITDA margins of large dialysis operators, lowest general and administrative costs, and the highest revenue per treatment rates among dialysis providers. Renal Care Group's $4 billion sale to Fresenius was widely heralded as one of the most successful healthcare stories in recent decades both from a quality and financial perspective.
Those in attendance left with a desire to learn more about an affiliation with ROSA and expressed an interest in moving their discussions with ROSA into a due diligence phase. To learn more about ROSA affiliation opportunities please call 1-866-ROSA-898 (1-866-767-2898) or send an email to info@rosaoncology.com.
