NGHS continues to improve access to cancer care in Georgia

Published: Monday, January 27, 2025

Six more surgeons, radiation oncologists and other specialists recently joined the region’s most comprehensive cancer program – so more people can get high-quality cancer care close to home. Northeast Georgia Health System’s (NGHS) Cancer Services team provides surgical, radiation and gynecologic oncology – as well as hematology and medical oncology – supported by advanced technology and a compassionate support network.

“When you or a loved one learns you have cancer, the last thing anyone wants to think about is driving long distances to get treatment and finding a place to stay,” said April Radford, executive director of Cancer Services at NGHS. “Welcoming these outstanding providers to our team enhances our ability to provide advanced cancer care to those near and far – from the suburbs of Atlanta to the shores of Lake Lanier, to the Blue Ridge mountains and beyond.”

Maurice Asouzu, MD, and Mary Read, MD – both general surgeons with Longstreet Clinic – joined NGHS’ Cancer Services program last summer. Dr. Read specializes in breast care, breast surgery and breast cancer care. Dr. Asouzu specializes in general surgery.

James Taylor, MD, and Allison Hazy, MD, of Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) Radiation Oncology joined the team in 2024.

Two physician assistants – Micaela Campagna and Katelyn Malbrecht – recently joined Chelsea Chandler, MD, at NGPG Gynecologic Oncology to round out the latest additions to the cancer care team at NGHS.

“By bringing in these highly specialized providers, we are enhancing cancer care in our region,” said Andrew Johnson, MD, medical director of Cancer Services at NGHS and medical oncologist with Longstreet Clinic. “Our goal is to provide every patient with personalized, innovative options close to home, ensuring they receive the highest level of care in a supportive environment.”

This announcement comes as NGMC continues to make strides in innovating cancer care, having recently made headlines for being the first and only hospital in Georgia – and one of the few in the United States – to offer histotripsy, a groundbreaking, non-invasive treatment option for liver tumors. This state-of-the-art technology uses focused ultrasound waves to destroy cancerous tissue with precision, offering hope to patients who may not have been candidates for traditional therapies.

NGMC recently became the first in the world to offer a clinical trial focused entirely on patients with liver tumors, known as BOOMBOX.

“We are honored to be the first in the world to offer the BOOMBOX clinical trial to patients undergoing histotripsy,” said Charles Nash, MD, medical director of Research at NGMC. “This is a tremendous milestone in the advancement in cancer treatment. Our participation in this groundbreaking research underscores our commitment to leading the way in cancer care and ensuring our patients have access to the most progressive treatment available.”

For more information about the cancer care offered at NGMC, please visit nghs.com/cancer.