Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is embarking on a significant expansion into central and north Louisiana through a strategic alliance with MD Clinics, a well-established cancer care provider with locations spanning the region. The integration, set to commence in April 2024, will see all MD Clinics locations, including the one in Minden, transition to Mary Bird Perkins locations, marking a substantial increase in the Cancer Center’s footprint across the state.
The integration will see MD Clinics’ physicians and team members joining the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center team while remaining at their current locations. Patients will continue to receive care at the most convenient locations, including specialty support services available at several clinics.
According to the Louisiana Tumor Registry, cancer mortality rates in central and north Louisiana are 15-20 percent higher than the national average. Through this integration, Mary Bird Perkins aims to enhance services in areas where the need is particularly significant.
Jonas Fontenot, PhD, MBA, President and CEO of Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled with the opportunity to work with the MD Clinics team, who share our vision for empowering providers with the resources needed to deliver exceptional cancer care to patients in their own communities.”
Manish Dhawan, MD, founder of MD Clinics, highlighted the potential benefits of the integration, stating, “By combining MD Clinics’ expertise and knowledge of the region with Mary Bird Perkins’ leading-edge cancer services and resources, we are forging a continuum of care that goes beyond traditional boundaries for patients.”
Key benefits of the integration include an expansion of research through clinical trials, access to advanced technology and expertise, comprehensive patient care, enhanced coordination among healthcare professionals, and a significant community impact. The integration solidifies the commitment of both organizations to serving local communities and ensuring residents have access to high-quality cancer care close to home.
For more information about Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center and to find a location near you, visit marybird.org.