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As a physician, I read with concern the recent letter describing one Maui County resident's struggle to access oncology care. While I cannot comment on any individual's experience, I want our community to know that we understand these concerns and how difficult they can be for patients and families.
Over the past year, changes in oncology services across Maui County have significantly reduced local access to cancer care. We understand that a cancer diagnosis -- or the uncertainty that can continue after treatment -- is challenging enough without worrying about how or where to receive care.
To help strengthen access, Maui Health recently welcomed back Dr. Devena Alston-Johnson to our oncology program at Maui Memorial Outpatient Clinic. Our immediate priority is ensuring patients referred for oncology care receive a timely oncology consultation and an individualized plan of care.
While our focus is on strengthening access today, we are also actively planning for the future. Together with our physician partners and community organizations, we are working toward long-term oncology services that strengthen the patient experience, build a stable oncology workforce, and improve access and throughput for our community.
Patients or referring providers with questions about oncology referrals or scheduling are encouraged to contact the Oncology Department at Maui Memorial Outpatient Clinic at (808) 442-5817, where our team can help guide the next steps.
Our focus is, and always will be, ensuring patients have access to the oncology care they need. Everything we’re doing is centered on that commitment as we build a stronger, more sustainable oncology program for the people of Maui County.
Anna Eckart-Dodd, MD
Chief Medical Director – Maui Health