Let's start with a current news item. You recently received an important recognition for the quality of your work. What is it?
"The Ticino Breast Center has obtained the prestigious certification from the Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft (DKG), one of the highest European recognitions in oncology. This achievement confirms the quality of the care offered, based on an integrated, personalized, and multidisciplinary approach. This DKG label comes after a careful evaluation conducted by external experts who took into consideration, in addition to the quality of care and treatments, various other factors, including the facility's organizational levels and the interdependence between the various services offered, the integration of the pool of specialists, as well as the compliance of the entire process with international oncology guidelines.
What services does your Center offer to women with breast problems?
The Ticino Breast Center brings together all the medical specialties involved in screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. This multidisciplinary approach allows for an accurate diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment. Our mission is therefore to guarantee women a comprehensive health care pathway, from prevention to early diagnosis, all the way to the most appropriate treatments. This process is ensured through the constant presence of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including breast specialists, oncologists, plastic surgeons, radiologists, geneticists, psychologists, and physiotherapists, to offer an integrated and personalized service. Each patient is placed on a comprehensive path, tailored to their clinical, personal, and emotional needs. Our approach therefore combines advanced technology and human relationships, ensuring timely, safe, and personalized treatments.
What does it mean specifically to be a cutting-edge specialized center for breast cancer treatment?
We have advanced technologies for the early detection of breast cancer, such as digital mammography, MRI, and image-assisted biopsies. Early diagnosis is essential to increase the chances of successful treatment. It is also crucial that the Center offers modern surgical techniques and immediate reconstructive procedures to minimize physical and psychological trauma. Furthermore, it is essential to provide access to various treatment options, as a personalized approach based on the genetic and molecular characteristics of the tumor is essential to optimize outcomes. Finally, after treatment, many women may experience physical problems related to surgery or therapy. A rehabilitation program that includes physical and occupational therapy is essential to help patients regain function and mobility.
Psychological support is one of the most important aspects of the treatment process…
Absolutely. Facing a cancer diagnosis can bring on a host of complex emotions, including fear, anxiety, and depression. It's essential that a center offers qualified psychological support to guide and help patients develop effective coping strategies, reducing anxiety and improving their ability to cope with the disease. Women Women who receive emotional support are more likely to adhere to treatment protocols, as they feel more motivated and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. Sharing experiences with other women facing similar situations can provide comfort and understanding. In short, good psychological support not only improves patients' health, but also contributes to better clinical outcomes, making the entire process more manageable and less traumatic, and is crucial to the recovery and quality of life of women facing this challenge.
You've summed up your approach particularly effectively in four words: Welcomed, Listened to, Cared for, Accompanied. What message do you intend to convey?
Our goal is to raise awareness among women affected by the disease and support them throughout their journey so they can return to their personal and professional lives with peace of mind after this challenging ordeal. To do this, it's important to never be left alone and rely on a team with whom you can establish a relationship of absolute and lasting trust.
