Southwest Montana News

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) in Montana, along with the Montana Cancer Coalition, is actively promoting resources to assist residents in finding cancer care services across the state. The initiative involves the use of two interactive maps developed by the DPHHS Montana Cancer Coalition Program (MCCP), which provide information on 214 distinct services from 57 different providers.

"Providing quality customer service comes in many forms, and in this case making it easy to find these life-saving services is so important," stated DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton. "These interactive maps consolidate hundreds of services into one easy-to-find website to help Montanans find information for themselves or a loved one."

One of the maps focuses on Cancer Screening and Treatment Facilities, offering details on where individuals can access cancer screening services within Montana. Leah Merchant, DPHHS Cancer Control Program Section Supervisor, emphasized the significance of early detection: "Early detection is the key to treating any type of cancer as soon as possible. It’s vital that Montanans have access to cancer screening services, know how to gain access to treatment, help with recovery and psychological support and how to access services to improve quality of life."

Merchant highlighted that early-stage diagnosis significantly improves survival rates. For instance, 92 percent of women diagnosed with early-stage cervical cancer and 99 percent with early-stage breast cancer survive at least five years post-diagnosis. In contrast, survival rates drop considerably for metastatic cases.

In 2023, it is estimated that over 281,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S., including 920 new cases in Montana. Additionally, about 14,100 women are expected to be diagnosed with cervical cancer nationwide, with 40 new cases anticipated in Montana.

Merchant noted that most health insurance plans cover screening mammograms. For those without adequate insurance coverage, MCCP offers free screenings and diagnostic services statewide. Local health departments are available to assist in scheduling appointments.

The second map titled Quality of Life Services provides resources categorized under counseling, support groups, patient advocates, financial counseling, and retreats for patients and their families.

"Cancer is hard, yet over 80 percent of people survive a cancer diagnosis," said Becky Franks, CEO Cancer Support Community Montana. She pointed out the importance of improving quality of life during and after treatment: "It’s important to bring attention to ways to improve quality of life during and after cancer treatment."

Franks also noted that while numerous treatment modalities exist alongside support services, locating them can be challenging. The maps aim to address this issue by enhancing accessibility: "In addition, we will use this map to track resource deserts and think about how to fill the needs of Montana residents who are dealing with a cancer diagnosis."

Feedback regarding these resources has been positive; for example, a physician from Huntsman Cancer Institute used them successfully for a local patient in Montana.

Further improvements are planned for later this year when an additional category focusing on Occupational Therapists will be introduced. This will cater specifically to those affected by loss or impaired use due to cancer-related conditions such as lymphedema.

For more information about the Montana Cancer Coalition's efforts visit About - Montana Cancer Coalition (mtcancercoalition.org).