Cardio-Oncology

Cancer treatment is lifesaving. In some cases, however, cancer treatment can affect your heart. The experts in our cardio-oncology program are here to prevent, manage and treat these side effects so you can have a healthy heart for years to come.

Our cardiologists and oncologists care for people just beginning cancer treatment, long-term cancer survivors and everyone in between. Our program provides cancer treatment and heart care at the same time — because you shouldn’t have to choose between the two.

The Cardio-Oncology Program at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health is backed by our proven record of clinical excellence in cardiology and oncology. Highlights of our program include:

• National recognition: U.S. News & World Report ranks our cardiology, heart and vascular surgery services No. 1 in Washington, Alaska, Montana, Idaho and Oregon for the 2023-2024 award period. Our Cancer Care program holds accreditation from the Commission on Cancer, which speaks to our commitment to exceptional, patient-focused cancer care. These two teams combine to provide comprehensive care before, during and after cancer treatment.

• Multidisciplinary team: Cancer can be challenging, but you have a team of experts on your side at every step. Our dedicated cardiologists work with pharmacists, imaging specialists and medical, surgical and radiation oncologists to provide you with seamless care. 

• Patient-centered care: A dedicated nurse navigator answers your questions and coordinates your tests and visits. With your nurse navigator providing support, you can focus on your well-being.

• Expedited treatment: You shouldn’t have to wait for care, especially when it involves cancer or your heart. We see patients with urgent needs within days, not weeks, so you have peace of mind.

Our specialists provide personalized care for patients who:

• Have heart disease or heart risk factors and a recent cancer diagnosis
• Are currently receiving cancer treatment and experiencing heart-related side effects
• Have any type of heart problem after receiving cancer treatment, including childhood and long-term cancer survivors

We personalize your care based on your age, heart disease risk factors and the cancer treatments you need or already received. Our specialized cardiologists work directly with your cancer care providers to:

• Create a care plan: Your cardio-oncology plan helps prevent heart-related side effects from current or future cancer treatment.
• Monitor you: Our team screens you for potential heart problems before and during your cancer care using cardiac imaging tests.
• Optimize your cancer treatment: We provide the most effective cancer care while protecting your heart from potential side effects.
• Provide follow-up care: You continue receiving cardiology care after completing your cancer treatment. We evaluate your risk factors, provide heart disease screening and guide you toward resources and community support if needed.

Contact us to learn more about cardio-oncology or to schedule an appointment.