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Senior Adult Oncology Center

The Senior Adult Oncology Center at Jefferson Health is the Greater Philadelphia area's only program focused exclusively on cancer care for adults over 65. As you age, you're more likely to have multiple or complex health conditions that require the multidisciplinary expertise of our dedicated Center, backed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center.

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Providing Customized Cancer Care – and More – to Seniors

When you're referred to our Center, we typically begin with a comprehensive geriatric oncology assessment. Our team of specialists reviews your health and personal needs from all angles, often completing your assessment in a single visit either in person or via telehealth for your convenience.

Based on our detailed assessment, we'll create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals, ensuring your autonomy, dignity and quality of life. We'll share your treatment plan with you and your referring physician. A dedicated care coordinator will help you navigate your assessment and care journey. If you plan on receiving your care closer to home, we'll work closely with your healthcare providers to deliver treatment in your own community.

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Dedicated to Helping You Navigate the Challenges of Cancer

Our recently launched Geriatric Oncology Center of Excellence aims to remove barriers to care and combine innovative research and care delivery methods to provide you with age-friendly, personalized care plans and ongoing support. 

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Our Care Team

With nationally renowned specialists and experts in a wide range of disciplines, Jefferson Health brings the best care in the world, right to you.

Find a Location

Whether you're in the suburbs or the city, we have multiple state-of-the-art facilities across the region—so you can always find the care you need nearby.

60%
Cancer in the United States occurs in people over age 65

70%
Initial treatment plans amended after our team's assessment of senior cancer patients

+80%
Evaluations of senior cancer patients that have led to recommended medicine changes and referrals for additional healthcare services

Awards & Honors

Nationally Recognized Cancer Care

Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center is recognized as high performing in cancer care by U.S. News & World Report, and is designated a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) for excellence in cancer care, prevention measures and research.

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NCI Cancer Center logo

What Is a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment?

Our goal is to partner with you and your referring physician to create a customized cancer care plan that takes into consideration the whole person — not only your health but also your quality of life.

We'll start with a comprehensive geriatric oncology assessment to identify cancer- and age-related issues. Our team typically completes the assessment in a single visit, which includes the following steps:

  1.  A geriatrician will carefully screen for diseases and conditions that are common with aging, such as cardiovascular issues, kidney disease, dementia, depression, anemia, diabetes, osteoporosis, malnutrition and others.
  2.  An oncologist will provide an expert opinion confirming your cancer diagnosis, stage and treatment options, based on your tests and records.
  3.  A pharmacist will review your medicines for possible dangerous drug interactions and any potential issues that may arise if your cancer is treated with chemotherapy or other cancer therapies.
  4.  Social workers will provide counseling and support to you and your loved one and help you locate services and agencies that may be helpful during and after treatment.
  5.  Dieticians will review your nutritional status and recommend ways to enhance it before and during cancer treatment.
  6.  Palliative care professionals can provide advice and support for managing cancer symptoms, as well as treatment side effects if needed.

For more information, contact the Senior Adult Oncology Center at 1-800-533-3669.

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