The first independent, community oncology practice recently joined the Mayo Clinic Care Network. Minnesota Oncology comprises a group of carefully vetted, independent health-care providers with special access to the Mayo Clinic’s knowledge and expertise, including its research, diagnostic, and treatment resources.
The collaboration with Mayo experts will offer Minnesota Oncology a variety of tools and services, including:
AskMayoExpert: This point-of-care tool provides concise clinical information on hundreds of medical conditions, from clinical protocols and recommendations for treatment to medical references and patient education.
eConsults: Mayo Clinic specialists will be available to Minnesota Oncology physicians for second opinions on specific patients.
eBoards: Minnesota Oncology medical teams can review and discuss complex cases with a Mayo Clinic multidisciplinary panel and other health-care providers within the Mayo Clinic Care Network via live video conferences.
The Value of Collaboration
John Schwerkoske, MD
“When our founding physicians—the early pioneers of oncology in Minnesota—joined forces to form what is now Minnesota Oncology, they understood the value of physicians working together to improve patient care. And today, we continue to build upon that belief as we join the Mayo Clinic Care Network,” said John Schwerkoske, MD, President, Minnesota Oncology.
Dr. Schwerkoske noted: “Minnesota Oncology and Mayo Clinic’s oncology and hematology teams have a long history of collaborating on patient care. Formalizing this collaboration in a clinically meaningful relationship enhances our commitment to improve the quality and delivery of health care to our community—expanding access to the highest quality of care while allowing patients to stay right here in the Twin Cities under the supervision of their established care team at Minnesota Oncology.”
Minnesota Oncology was vetted as part of the Mayo Clinic Care Network’s comprehensive evaluation process. This included an in-depth review of the organization’s governance structure, clinical practice, and business practices as well as its quality, safety, and service efforts.
