Combining the latest in telemedicine with rapidly expanding knowledge about cancer risk, Piedmont Cancer Genetics has launched a telegenetics program for patients at high risk for breast, colon and ovarian cancer.

The program was made possible by a donation from Holland Ware and Faye Hendrix-Ware of Hogansville and employs four genetic counselors who will offer virtual visits via Piedmont’s telemedicine services while those counselors continue in-person visits. As the only certified member of MD Anderson Cancer Network in Georgia, Piedmont is committed to transforming healthcare.
 
“Oncology has moved rapidly into an era where we can lower the risk of cancer and precisely target individualized treatments for those who do develop it,” said John W. Henson, M.D., Chief of Oncology Services. “The explosion of genetic research is the basis for making that happen.”
 
“Though only 5 to 10 percent of cancer is hereditary, genetic testing can identify individuals who have a high risk for cancer,” said Amanda Eppolito, MS, leader of Piedmont Cancer Genetics. “If someone has an inherited susceptibility, he or she can take proactive steps for risk-reduction and early-detection. This new telegenetics service will allow more patients to benefit from genetic counseling and testing.”
 
“By incorporating telemedicine capabilities, we are now able to expand our high-quality, personalized care to even more patients, close to home,” said Linda Van der Merwe, Piedmont’s Executive Director of Clinical Oncology Services.
 
Patients who are interested in the telegenetics program may call Piedmont Cancer Genetics at 404-425-1800.