UPMC East Cancer Outreach in the Community


By: Rick Pietzak and Cyndy Patton


UPMC has been providing comprehensive cancer care to the people of Pittsburgh’s eastern suburbs for many years and that care was elevated to new levels in the summer of 2012 when UPMC East opened its doors.

Today, UPMC East provides medical, surgical and radiation oncology as part of the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center network, with doctors based in the Monroeville area. At UPMC East there are world renowned physicians; radiation/medical and surgical oncologists that are part of the Hillman Cancer Center and they work full-time at UPMC East.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC East utilizes a tumor board, consisting of oncology clinicians who meet to discuss the most complicated cases to determine the most appropriate care for each patient.

“Because every cancer is different and every patient is different,” said Mark Sevco, president of UPMC East.

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC East has several community outreach programs in place, working with schools, churches and senior centers to host screening events, support group meetings and wellness events focusing on prevention, treatment and healthy lifestyles. The screenings are especially important to help identify cancer needs in the community and get patients connected with a physician.

One key need in western Pennsylvania is the early diagnosis of lung cancer. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at UPMC East utilizes a staff of dedicated professionals to conduct community outreach among smokers in the region.

Mr. Sevco cited a low-dose CT Scanning program for high-risk people in the community, “Patients who have smoked for many years can get a low-dose CT scan on a regular basis to identify lung cancer at an earlier stage.”

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center also provides oncology nurses and social workers to speak on various cancer topics at events hosted by outside organizations.

To request a representative to visit your facility or to learn more about cancer outreach services at UPMC East or other UPMC Hillman Cancer Center locations, call 412-623-1266.