Clinical Component

Navigating the Clinical Component

Saint Alphonsus Cancer Institute delivers a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to oncology and hematology care, ensuring that patients receive advanced, individualized treatment plans supported by a multidisciplinary team. The clinical offerings are designed to address the full spectrum of cancer care, from early detection and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship.

Practice Overview

  • Comprehensive Cancer Institute in Boise offering chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and integrative care.
  • Ancillary services include genetics, social work, dietitian, nurse navigation, and financial advocacy.
  • Cancer Team: Join 6 Oncologists of which two are dedicated Oncology Hospitalists, 3 RAD/ONCs and 12 Oncology APPs supporting both inpatient and outpatient programs.
  • The Practice consists of approximately 60-70% Oncology and 30-40% Hematology (benign)
  • Dedicated 10-bed inpatient unit at Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center-Boise
  • Four locations throughout the greater Boise metroplex

Schedule

  • 4-day work week, M-F with a minimum of 32 hours of patient contact time – includes clinic, treatments, and rounding as needed.
  • Weekly tumor boards/Collaborate with Breast Surgeons, Plastic Surgeons, GYN ONC, Colorectal, Neurosurgery, Thoracic and Esophageal.

Call Description

  • Two dedicated Inpatient HEM/ONC rotate coverage 7am-7pm, 7 days a week.
  • 1:6 Call Schedule: Shared equitably on evenings and weekends from 7 PM to 7 AM. Outpatient HEM/ONC handles triage calls on weekdays and weekends, with Nurse Triage screening calls.

Integrated Oncology Services

The institute is structured to provide seamless care through a combination of state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge treatments:

  • Medical Oncology: The cornerstone of the practice, offering chemotherapy and targeted therapies tailored to individual patient needs.
  • Radiation Oncology: Advanced radiation therapy options, including stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), are delivered with precision to optimize outcomes and minimize side effects. Gamma knife and Cyber knife.
  • Benign Hematology Services: Comprehensive management of hematologic conditions, making up approximately 30–40% of the practice.

Each patient benefits from a highly coordinated care model, supported by a team of specialists who work collaboratively to ensure optimal treatment outcomes. Weekly tumor boards for breast, thoracic, and gastrointestinal cancers facilitate evidence-based decision-making, integrating insights from multiple disciplines.

Comprehensive Supportive Care

Recognizing the complexities of oncology care, Saint Alphonsus provides an array of ancillary services to support patients holistically:

  • Genetics Counseling: Tailored risk assessments and genetic testing to guide personalized treatment strategies.
  • Dietitian Services: Nutritional support to help manage treatment side effects and improve overall well-being.
  • Social Work and Financial Advocacy: Addressing the emotional, social, and financial challenges associated with cancer care, ensuring that patients and families are supported throughout their journey.
  • Nurse Navigation: Specialized nurse navigators coordinate care, streamline access to resources, and provide ongoing education and support to patients.

Technology and Innovation

Saint Alphonsus Cancer Institute is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to deliver precise, effective care. Chemotherapy preparation is handled in-house by a dedicated pharmacy team, ensuring timely and accurate treatment. Radiation oncology services are integrated into the same facility, enhancing convenience and continuity of care.

The institute is actively pursuing accreditation as a rectal cancer treatment center and continues to expand its surgical capabilities with advanced robotic techniques. Additionally, the organization’s focus on next-generation sequencing and pathology ensures timely and accurate diagnoses, supporting personalized treatment plans. 

Locations and Accessibility

Saint Alphonsus maintains four primary oncology locations, offering comprehensive care across the region:

  • Boise Cancer Institute: The flagship location, combining medical and radiation oncology services under one roof, along with integrative care and research programs.
  • Nampa Cancer Center: A full-service facility with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and supportive care.
  • Caldwell Cancer Institute: A freestanding center offering both medical and radiation oncology.
  • Ontario, OR: A medical oncology-focused site supported by telehealth services to rural areas such as Baker City, OR, with radiation therapy available at the Caldwell location.

Commitment to Multidisciplinary Care

Collaboration is at the heart of the clinical component at Saint Alphonsus. Physicians work closely with advanced practice providers (APPs), oncology pharmacists, dietitians, and other specialists to create a comprehensive care plan tailored to each patient. This team-based approach ensures not only high-quality care but also efficient resource utilization, improving the overall patient experience.

Research and Clinical Trials

The Cancer Institute is actively engaged in clinical trials and research, offering patients access to innovative therapies while providing physicians with opportunities to contribute to advancing the field of oncology. Supported by a dedicated research administration team, the program is undergoing a strategic rebuild, providing an exciting opportunity for physicians interested in research.

Saint Alphonsus Cancer Institute’s clinical model combines cutting-edge technology, a robust support system, and a patient-first philosophy to deliver exceptional cancer care. It is a place where clinical excellence and compassionate care intersect, creating a meaningful and impactful experience for both patients and providers. 

Staff

Saint Alphonsus boasts a robust and collaborative oncology team, including:

  • Oncology Physicians: Six oncologists, supported by two dedicated oncology hospitalists.
  • Radiation Oncology Team: Three radiation oncologists who rotate between multiple sites.
  • Advanced Practice Providers (APPs): Twelve APPs provide extensive support for both inpatient and outpatient programs.
  • Multidisciplinary Care Providers: Social workers, dietitians, financial advocates, and nurse navigators contribute to the institute’s integrative care model.
  • Oncology Pharmacists: A strong pharmacy team supports chemotherapy preparation, oral chemotherapy education, and treatment planning, enhancing patient care quality.

This team-centered environment emphasizes collaboration, continuous education, and the shared goal of delivering excellent patient outcomes.

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