Inova Schar Cancer Institute Announces Formation of First Molecular Tumor Board in the Metro D.C. Area Where Patients and Their Families Participate

The Inova molecular tumor board aims to provide patients and their physicians access, information, education and advocacy

FALLS CHURCH, VA – April 12, 2016 – The Inova Schar Cancer Institute announced today the formation of a molecular tumor board (MTB) comprised of physicians, oncologists, researchers, and genetic counselors. These experts convene weekly to analyze advanced and rare primary cancers that may be amenable to targeted therapies. The mission of the MTB is to personalize care recommendations for patients, matching the cancer’s molecular profile to relevant clinical trials or therapies. Not only will the MTB identify these potential courses of action, but unlike most, will also advocate on behalf of the patient for acceptance into trials or access to targeted therapies. In keeping with the Inova Schar Cancer Institute’s emphasis on patient-centered care, the MTB encourages the patient and family members to be in the room to participate in the discussion and learn about next steps in treating their disease.

Under the guidance of Donald “Skip” Trump, MD, FACP and CEO, Inova Schar Cancer Institute, the molecular tumor board is led by J. Milburn Jessup, MD, Scientific Director, Precision Cancer Care Program and surgical oncologist and scientist, and Timothy Cannon, MD, Clinical Director for the Molecular Tumor Board and Personalized Medicine Initiative and board certified in Medical Oncology.

“I believe having a molecular tumor board in the mid-Atlantic that embodies our commitment to science, precision medicine, and compassionate, patient-centered care will be a great service to our patients and our community,” said Dr. Trump. “Our goal is to improve life expectancy and quality of life for patients, and move continually closer to making cancer a chronic disease and eventually, to find a cure.”

The tumor board is continued evidence of Inova’s commitment to personalized health, not only using precision medicine to predict, prevent, and treat disease, but also building patient-centered programs to meet the needs of the whole person.

Media Contact: Kelly Schlageter, 703-205-2221, kelly.schlageter@inova.org