Hawthorn Medical Associates

Cancer Center

A diagnosis of cancer leads to so many questions and concerns. In addition to dealing with the emotional response, a person must make the most important and immediate decision – where to get the best treatment. The Hawthorn Cancer Center makes that decision easier by offering patients comprehensive cancer treatment, including a convenient location.

The Hawthorn Cancer Center is committed to clinical excellence and provides treatment to patients in a state-of-the-art facility that features a comfortable, family-oriented environment. Two outstanding, board-certified oncologists, Brian L. Erickson, MD, and John G. Niedzwicki, MD, PhD, provide the full range of cancer care. These experienced physicians develop effective treatment plans for each patient, oversee the administration of chemotherapy, and coordinate any other needed treatment such as surgery or radiation therapy. Our affiliation with Partners Community Healthcare, Inc, means Dr. Erickson and Dr. Niedzwicki have enhanced access to cancer specialists at Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Dana Farber.

Before a newly diagnosed patient even comes for the first appointment, our physicians have already begun planning treatment. Laboratory, x-ray and pathology reports are obtained immediately so that at the first hour-long appointment, the physician can discuss a comprehensive plan with the patient, address questions and concerns, and get treatment started right away.

Patients receiving chemotherapy receive education in areas such as the chemotherapy process and drugs, side effects and nutrition, and what to expect at each visit. All of the staff members involved in a patient's care work together to implement treatment, answer questions, and provide a supportive environment. Appointments with the Hawthorn Medical's social worker or dietitian can be arranged to address individual concerns.

The Hawthorn Cancer Center is genuinely concerned about all aspects of a patient's care and strives to make everything as convenient as possible. Located at 535 Faunce Corner Road in Dartmouth, the Cancer Center has on-site laboratory and x-ray services, regularly communicates with a patient's primary care physician, and provides education and support groups for patients and families.

WITHIN THIS SPECIALTY

• Brian L. Erickson, MD
• John G. Niedzwicki, MD, PhD

Additional Resources

American Cancer Society
www.cancer.org
This nationwide health organization is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives from cancer through research, education, advocacy, and service. The web site contains valuable resources on prevention and risk factors, detection, treatment methods, and services for cancer patients and their families.

National Cancer Institute
www.cancer.gov/cancerinformation
Provides comprehensive information about cancer by covering topics such as treatment options, coping with cancer, support and resources, and cancer literature

Cancer Care
www.cancercare.org
A non-profit organization whose mission is to provide help to people with all cancers through counseling, education, information and referral, and direct financial assistance. A number of educational materials and resources can be found on the website. Information is also available in Spanish.

National Library of Medicine
www.nlm.nih.gov
Variety of databases for journal articles and books on any area of medical interest