The California Cancer Association for Research & Excellence (cCARE) has announced new partnerships with California Urology and Central Valley Medical & Women’s Imaging. The move brings six urologists and three advanced practice providers into cCARE, aiming to strengthen the organization’s ability to offer comprehensive cancer care in the Central Valley.
Fresno has experienced a shortage of healthcare workers, while much of the state’s specialized medical infrastructure is concentrated in Northern and Southern California. Despite this, Dr. Jedidiah Monson, cCARE Board President and Medical Director of Radiation/Imaging, emphasized that local centers are well-equipped to handle most cancer cases.
“Fresno has impressive academic centers to the north and south, so it’s not surprising that when residents receive a serious cancer diagnosis, they sometimes seek treatment at these other locations,” Monson said. “The good news is that almost all cancer treatments can be safely provided here in Fresno. Our technology is advancing rapidly, our doctors are well-trained and board-certified, and everything needed for comprehensive cancer care is available close to home.”
Monson noted that only a small fraction of patients need to leave the area for treatment. “It’s a bit sad for me to see patients leaving Fresno — where effective, expert therapy can be delivered — and traveling far away, often with great hardship,” he said. “I believe it’s important that we encourage patients to receive care locally, especially since our providers are well-trained practitioners, interns, and fellows.”
The expanded team aims to improve coordination among surgery, systemic therapy, imaging, radiation and other services within Fresno. Monson believes this approach will help address community needs more effectively.
cCARE operates as an alliance member of Navista—Cardinal Health’s oncology practice network—and continues its expansion throughout California.
