St. Bernards Healthcare has successfully administered an innovative targeted cancer therapy to its first patient, making it the only health system in Northeast Arkansas to offer this level of cancer care. The therapy, LUTATHERA, helps patients facing a rare cancer diagnosis, known as gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs).

How LUTATHERA Works

Before starting treatment, patients receive a specialized scan to confirm their cancer has somatostatin receptors (SSTRs). Once underway, LUTATHERA finds and attaches itself to SSTR proteins on the surface of cancer cells, delivering a precise dose of radiation directly to the tumor.

The milestone therapy required a coordinated effort among St. Bernards Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Pharmacy and Nuclear Medicine teams. Delivering LUTATHERA safely required building a team-based approach that draws on the expertise of each department.

St. Bernards works with Novartis Patient Support to help patients access LUTATHERA, including assistance with insurance, prior authorization and financial support options for those who qualify. Referring physicians can work directly with St. Bernards to identify appropriate candidates and begin the process.

St. Bernards’ Commitment to Cancer Care

For more than 125 years, St. Bernards Healthcare has upheld a mission to provide Christ-like healing through education, treatment and health services. Founded in 1900 and still sponsored by the Olivetan Benedictine Sisters of Holy Angels Convent in Jonesboro, Arkansas, St. Bernards stands as an independent, non-profit, Catholic healthcare system that serves 23 counties in northeast Arkansas and southeast Missouri.

Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.