How We Treat Cancer: A Unique Approach in Oncology
4 min read
At Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers (RMCC), we believe exceptional cancer care happens at the intersection of compassion and scientific expertise. It’s an approach that we’re proud of, and one that sets us apart in healthcare today. Our goal is to fight cancer with the most advanced treatments available today while remembering that each patient is unique in both their medical and supportive care needs.
“Cancer is difficult. It’s an incredibly vulnerable time, and people want to make sure they’re making the best decisions for themselves and their future,” explained Dr. Travis Archuleta, medical oncologist at RMCC.
“Many people think they have to travel far or go to a large academic institution to receive excellent cancer care. At RMCC, we not only offer the latest treatments but also take the time to truly know and support each person. If one of my family members were diagnosed, I would want them here.”
Cutting-Edge Cancer Treatments in Colorado
RMCC cancer specialists use advanced, evidence-based treatments tailored to each individual’s diagnosis. These therapies may include targeted therapy, which focuses on specific genetic changes that drive cancer growth, and immunotherapy, which helps the body’s own immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Other treatments provided by our medical oncologists include chemotherapy and hormone therapy.
RMCC also provides patients with the right type of radiation therapy for their needs. This can include extremely precise external beam therapy, internal radiation therapy called brachytherapy, and radiopharmaceuticals, a new category of treatment that identifies and treats cancer cells using radioactive isotopes.
Your RMCC oncologist will develop a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan that often includes surgery and other treatments provided at our cancer centers throughout Colorado.
Request an appointment at a location near you in Colorado.
Access to Cancer Research Trials Close to Home
The physicians of RMCC also strongly believe in the benefits of clinical research trials for cancer treatments. The goal of research is to find new therapies, tests, and other treatments that are better than what is currently available to patients with a specific type of cancer. Participating in these studies gives individuals the opportunity to access emerging therapies that may not otherwise be available to them.
“The benefit of these trials is significant. Not only can patients gain access to potentially groundbreaking therapies, but they can often do so close to home,” explained Dr. Archuleta. “Our clinical trials are offered throughout the state in convenient, community-based settings. That means people with cancer can often take advantage of these advanced therapies without leaving their hometown.”
Learn more about clinical trials available at Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers for a variety of cancer types. If you'd like to explore whether a clinical trial may be right for you, request an appointment to speak with our team.
Working Together for Better Patient Outcomes
The key to RMCC’s approach to patient care is our people. Each of our physicians is part of a multidisciplinary team committed to delivering high-quality, coordinated cancer care. We are also committed to communicating with our patients’ referring physicians to ensure they are aware of our next steps and plan of action.
Each week our cancer specialists —including medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgeons, and others —meet to review complex cases and make collective recommendations. In most cases, the medical oncologist will present a personalized treatment plan that fits each patient’s diagnosis, needs, and goals, based on these discussions. .
“As physicians, we don’t make decisions alone. Our culture of collaboration allows us to bring together the expertise of many specialists to ensure each patient receives the best possible plan of care,” said Dr. Archuleta. “If I have a question for another physician, I can simply pick up the phone or walk down the hall. Patients should know they don’t have just one doctor caring for them, but an entire team.”
Learn more about the types of cancer treatments offered to RMCC patients.
Social Support for Our Patients and Caregivers
Cancer can feel isolating, and the demands of treatment can be overwhelming. To help patients and their families throughout their journey, RMCC offers a range of supportive services led by our oncology social workers. They help identify emotional and mental health needs as well as nutrition needs that can be addressed by a registered dietitian. The supportive care team also provides information on support groups, counseling services, caregiver support, financial assistance programs, and more.
“Cancer impacts almost every aspect of life,” said Dr. Archuleta. “We may not be able to remove every burden that comes with treatment, but we can make sure patients never face it alone. Every person who comes to us is treated with compassion, dignity, and the highest standard of care possible.”
Learn more about supportive care services available to our patients and their caregivers.
Cancer Care in Colorado Done the RMCC Way
Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers provides advanced cancer care, bringing together medical oncology, radiation oncology, clinical research trials, surgery, and supportive services at our comprehensive cancer centers throughout Denver, Boulder and northern Colorado, and the Colorado Springs area, including Pueblo.
Our team approach means each patient is supported by cancer doctors, nurses, social workers, dietitians, and other care team members who work together to guide treatment and support the whole person.
For patients and families facing cancer, RMCC offers the expertise, advanced treatments, research access, and compassionate care they need without having to travel far from home. Request an appointment to schedule an initial consultation or a second opinion at a location that’s close to you.
