Cancer Center Conflict Continues

[English Ivy]

That was a most interesting full page ad on page A14 of today's Daily Sun taken out by the Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute entitled "Clarifying Misleading Information".

Although I'm sure it will never happen, wouldn't it be fascinating if their offer to discuss and debate the issues they have raised was accepted by the Central Florida Health Alliance (CFHA).

Here is their offer:

"I would be most happy to discuss in an open forum with the administration of the CFHA-before residents of The Villages-the issues raised above. I await the invitation."

Here's a link to their website with some additional info and an invitation to tour their facilities this Saturday, Dec 4, to see all the equipment they already have in place which Villagers are being asked to pay for at the new Moffitt Center.

http://www.rboi.com/event-tvoh2010.html

[daywoo]

I have first hand knowledge that the 2.4 million dollar IMRT LINEAR ACCELERATOR is indeed in the Villages at the Robert Boissonneault Oncology Institute. I have been receiving treatments from this facility since 2001. Several months ago I became the first Stage IV Lung cancer patient to be treated with the IMRT at this facility in the Villages. Although, it has been in use for other types of cancer in The Villages. I contacted the Daily Sun and invited them to be present for my treatment. Hopeing other Villagers would benefit from the information they could provide. However, they choose not to be present, and not to respond to my calls. I hold no animosity toward the Moffitt Center....I went there in 2001 for a second opinion. The Oncologist there prescribed the same treatment that had been suggested to me in the Villages. Chemo, was administered at the Sharon Morse Center and Radiation at the Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute. My question is....why do they feel they have to mislead The Villagers to obtain funding for the Moffitt Center? Villagers have always been generous...just give them the true facts. Oh yea, after 9 years of treatment in The Villages, I'm happy to say I'm still playing 18... making happy hour and working 3 days a week.

[Russ_Boston]

Nice to know that we will now have 2 facilities that can offer hope and treatment to sufferers of these dreaded diseases!

Best of luck to you daywoo.

[Xavier]

I have first hand knowledge that the 2.4 million dollar IMRT LINEAR ACCELERATOR is indeed in the Villages at the Robert Boissonneault Oncology Institute. I have been receiving treatments from this facility since 2001. Several months ago I became the first Stage IV Lung cancer patient to be treated with the IMRT at this facility in the Villages. Although, it has been in use for other types of cancer in The Villages. I contacted the Daily Sun and invited them to be present for my treatment. Hopeing other Villagers would benefit from the information they could provide. However, they choose not to be present, and not to respond to my calls. I hold no animosity toward the Moffitt Center....I went there in 2001 for a second opinion. The Oncologist there prescribed the same treatment that had been suggested to me in the Villages. Chemo, was administered at the Sharon Morse Center and Radiation at the Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute. My question is....why do they feel they have to mislead The Villagers to obtain funding for the Moffitt Center? Villagers have always been generous...just give them the true facts. Oh yea, after 9 years of treatment in The Villages, I'm happy to say I'm still playing 18... making happy hour and working 3 days a week.

Congratulations on being cancer free and welcome as a first time poster on Talk of the Villages.

I found the a listing of the top 50 Cancer Centers in the nation. It lists Moffitt at number 10. We are so fortunate to have highly rated Centers (Shands in Gainesville and Moffitt in Tampa) within a little over an hour's drive. To have one of them moving to our back yard is a real plus for all of us.

http://www.robertsreview.com/cancer_centers_top_50.html

[2BNTV]

:welcome: daywoo to TOTV. I hope you will keep on posting.

Best of Luck with your health issues.

[chuckinca]

My question is....why do they feel they have to mislead The Villagers to obtain funding for the Moffitt Center? Villagers have always been generous...just give them the true facts.

If the Villagers are funding this center does it mean that a Village ID is required to gain entrance to it?



.

[graciegirl]

Your post made me happy, Daywoo. Glad to hear of your good progress.

An oncologist can send you to the radiation oncologist of his choice. There is more than equipment involved in treating cancer with radiation.

Careful markings and careful assessments of a patients body is part of the treatment. A patient may have a slight curvature of the spine or other form of scoliosis and their body must be carefully replaced each time to receive the radiation EXACTLY the way she did yesterday. A slight mistake in this can burn the lung tissue that it was not meant to radiate, if perhaps that person was being treated for breast cancer.

I am not surprised that the Moffitt Center wants their own equipment and radiation oncologists, that is just how it works in the full service cancer centers.

This advertising by Boissonault falls outside what a medical center usually does in my opinion. In fact I haven't ever seen it done. It really looks to me like free enterprise at it's worst.

Yes, there will be two. Yes, they won't get all of the business like they did before.

They have four other locations in central Florida if I remember correctly.

I think they are doing more harm than good to their image, at least they are in my eyes.

Just my very humble opinion.

[Russ_Boston]

If the Villagers are funding this center does it mean that a Village ID is required to gain entrance to it?.

Funding is coming for people who live outside of TV as well. And to my knowledge, regardless of source and location, it is all volunteer.

But I assume that your post was tongue firmly implanted in check?

[RVRoadie]

Nice to know that we will now have 2 facilities that can offer hope and treatment to sufferers of these dreaded diseases!

Best of luck to you daywoo.

There is actually a third radiation facility going in to treat prostate cancer, over near Wal-Mart on 466. It is likely that there will be significant overcapacity for radiation treatment. While that may be good for patients in the short term, if Robert Boissonneault Oncology Institute (http://www.rboi.com/) ends up leaving The Villages, we will be worse off for it. I believe they treat more forms of cancer that either of the other facilities which would mean no local treatment for those forms of cancer.

[redwitch]

Russ, I'd guess that the tongue was so firmly planted that it probably jabbed a large hole in chuck's cheek.

What I'm wondering is if funding doesn't occur within the two-year time frame, what happens? It really does feel like there's a lot of desperation to get that funding.

[Russ_Boston]

What I'm wondering is if funding doesn't occur within the two-year time frame, what happens? It really does feel like there's a lot of desperation to get that funding.

I'm a big fan of Adam Smith's philosophy, it never seems to fail:

If there is a demand - supply will follow.

[Larry Wilson]

Really good article about the Support Equipment For New Cancer Center starting on pg 7 of The Property Owners' Association bulletin.

[Russ_Boston]

Really good article about the Support Equipment For New Cancer Center starting on pg 7 of The Property Owners' Association bulletin.

Basically just the ad from Boissonneault facility. No new info.

But I'm glad that next month they will have a Pete Wahl interview for counterpoint.

More info never hurts.

[Number 6]

Health care usually works under Romer's Law ("a bed built is a bed filled is a bed billed"). This predicts that demand will follow supply. I am pretty sure Adam Smith never saw that.
The question that is still out there is, "Why does the center require the equipment be donated?"

[graciegirl]

Health care usually works under Romer's Law ("a bed built is a bed filled is a bed billed"). This predicts that demand will follow supply. I am pretty sure Adam Smith never saw that.
The question that is still out there is, "Why does the center require the equipment be donated?"

That is a very good question.

[Russ_Boston]

Health care usually works under Romer's Law ("a bed built is a bed filled is a bed billed"). This predicts that demand will follow supply. I am pretty sure Adam Smith never saw that.
The question that is still out there is, "Why does the center require the equipment be donated?"

Good law, never heard that one! Not sure I agree as I have seen a few hospitals close up shop here in the Boston area but I like it anyway.

As far as why they require the equipment to be donated? Don't care. If it ends up not being donated then I guess they won't open. Still don't understand why we ask the question unless you were interested in donating and want to make sure the money is well spent. Didn't they open a information office somewhere in TV. If so, then go ask them directly. No one on this board seems to know.

[chuckinca]

Russ, I'd guess that the tongue was so firmly planted that it probably jabbed a large hole in chuck's cheek.

What I'm wondering is if funding doesn't occur within the two-year time frame, what happens? It really does feel like there's a lot of desperation to get that funding.


Just thought it might be worth a short discussion pertaining to the damned outsiders using TV amenities.


.

[SALYBOW]

Your post made me happy, Daywoo. Glad to hear of your good progress.

An oncologist can send you to the radiation oncologist of his choice. There is more than equipment involved in treating cancer with radiation.

Careful markings and careful assessments of a patients body is part of the treatment. A patient may have a slight curvature of the spine or other form of scoliosis and their body must be carefully replaced each time to receive the radiation EXACTLY the way she did yesterday. A slight mistake in this can burn the lung tissue that it was not meant to radiate, if perhaps that person was being treated for breast cancer.

I am not surprised that the Moffitt Center wants their own equipment and radiation oncologists, that is just how it works in the full service cancer centers.

This advertising by Boissonault falls outside what a medical center usually does in my opinion. In fact I haven't ever seen it done. It really looks to me like free enterprise at it's worst.

Yes, there will be two. Yes, they won't get all of the business like they did before.

They have four other locations in central Florida if I remember correctly.

I think they are doing more harm than good to their image, at least they are in my eyes.

Just my very humble opinion.


:024:
As a radiation therapy technologist I agree with the importance of duplication the radiation port correctly every day. This new equiptment allows us to treat to higher doses at the cancer site while sparing other good tissue. This is marvelous!

The part with which I take humbrage is two fold. I have a friend who has been treated at the B Center and can attest that she got what was on the cutting edge of treatment there.
I don't think that there is a problem with having two cancer centers in an area that in which the demographics are so skewed to the right. We are an aging population. My problem is that they used scare tactics which were not true to get people to donate. I also feel that they should have funded their center the way they funded all their other centers. I doubt they would solicit donations from say Leesburg. The Morses were kind enough to donate the center, why can't Moffit supply the equiptment that they will be able to recover the cost of in a short time.
The whole idea of solicitation is offputting to me, but the dishonest way in which this solicitation was marketed is appalling. :rant-rave:

From my earlier posts you can see that I "smelled a rat" early on, but now I know what is causing the stench.

Most importantly, congratulations and best wishes for the future to Dawoo. God's Bleesings in the future. Also, just my opinion

[elevatorman]

Am I incorrect or will the Morse's own the building and the equipment we are donating when all is said and done?

[Pturner]

:024:
...the dishonest way in which this solicitation was marketed is appalling. :rant-rave:


Here's an article from The Daily Sun entitled:
Care to improve dramatically when Moffitt Cancer Center opens here (http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html)

If the link doesn't work, copy and paste:

http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html

Is it misleading?

[same]

:024:
As a radiation therapy technologist I agree with the importance of duplication the radiation port correctly every day. This new equiptment allows us to treat to higher doses at the cancer site while sparing other good tissue. This is marvelous!

The part with which I take humbrage is two fold. I have a friend who has been treated at the B Center and can attest that she got what was on the cutting edge of treatment there.
I don't think that there is a problem with having two cancer centers in an area that in which the demographics are so skewed to the right. We are an aging population. My problem is that they used scare tactics which were not true to get people to donate. I also feel that they should have funded their center the way they funded all their other centers. I doubt they would solicit donations from say Leesburg. The Morses were kind enough to donate the center, why can't Moffit supply the equiptment that they will be able to recover the cost of in a short time.
The whole idea of solicitation is offputting to me, but the dishonest way in which this solicitation was marketed is appalling. :rant-rave:

From my earlier posts you can see that I "smelled a rat" early on, but now I know what is causing the stench.

Most importantly, congratulations and best wishes for the future to Dawoo. God's Bleesings in the future. Also, just my opinion

Is the "B" a "cancer center"?

[Whalen]

Here's an article from The Daily Sun entitled:
Care to improve dramatically when Moffitt Cancer Center opens here (http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html)

If the link doesn't work, copy and paste:

http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html

Is it misleading?

It is misleading in as much as Moffitt has already ventured off campus and has many "Affiliates" throughout Florida.

Also note that there will be 2 centers as part of the Central Florida Health Alliance; the Leesburg facility and the Villages facility.

And just as an aside, for those of us living in the southern part of The Villages, the Leesburg Center will be closer and more convenient.

http://http://www.moffitt.org/Site.aspx?spid=5CE54FA5D8EE4D27A5BD6C496C99028D (http://www.moffitt.org/Site.aspx?spid=5CE54FA5D8EE4D27A5BD6C496C99028D)

[Pturner]

Am I incorrect or will the Morse's own the building and the equipment we are donating when all is said and done?

Here's what article in Daily Sun (http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html) said:

"When The Villages developer offered to finance and build a 51,668-square-foot building for The Villages Health System that Moffitt could use, Villages residents started raising money so The Villages Health System could buy and own equipment that Moffitt would need."



(http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html)

[Russ_Boston]

It is misleading in as much as Moffitt has already ventured off campus and has many "Affiliates" throughout Florida.

Also note that there will be 2 centers as part of the Central Florida Health Alliance; the Leesburg facility and the Villages facility.

And just as an aside, for those of us living in the southern part of The Villages, the Leesburg Center will be closer and more convenient.

http://http://www.moffitt.org/Site.aspx?spid=5CE54FA5D8EE4D27A5BD6C496C99028D (http://www.moffitt.org/Site.aspx?spid=5CE54FA5D8EE4D27A5BD6C496C99028D)

Thanks for this link.

I think this further strengthens the idea that the Moffitt 'approach' is not simply about the equipment that is housed at the affiliate locations. This appears to be much more of a comprehensive approach to battling cancer.

The 'B' facility may be a first class treatment center but Moffitt appears to much, much more. I can understand why they were ranked as the #12 center in the US in terms of comprehensive cancer care and research.

Beating cancer is more than the final treatment. Yes, for the patient it is about determining the best course of action to battle 'their' current condition. For the rest of us, and those that come after, it is about finding the answer to the best ways to prevent and cure cancer in the future.

My reading on Moffitt makes me conclude that they are in deeply entrenched in that battle. Read this page about their 'total cancer care':

http://www.moffitt.org/site.aspx?spid=54A14FA0FD654729A5D617402FBBACDA&ForwardFrom=EDB6E253685745BDB8D071B6C45DBD1C



This will be my last response on Moffitt. I encourage everyone to get as many answers to as many questions as you have so you will feel comfortable with them if you wish to help out.

If you have questions why not just contact them instead of debating each other?

http://www.moffitt.org/giving

[redwitch]

Russ, I think the debate here and among Villagers is necessary. There is no argument that Moffitt is a first-class center. The issue is how it is being pushed down our throats with a lot of hype but no real answers as to the whys and whats.

Why do we need three cancer centers so close together? Why was Morse so insistent that one be built on Villages property? Why are Villagers asked to fund the equipment? Why was Relay for Life removed from TV? Who ultimately pays for the land, the building (we know who pays for the equipment)? What happens if the goals are not met in two years and, at the rate donations are being made, it doesn't look like it will? And so on and so forth.

I have called and asked some questions, but received no real answers -- just the party line.

[Talk Host]

Who has funded the equipment at all of the other Moffitt Centers? Are they all resident contributions, or is this one unique?

[daywoo]

Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute is having a OPEN HOUSE today 10am till 2pm. It would be nice for all to see just what they have to offer. I bet the fund raisers will not be there.

[SALYBOW]

The B center is short for Robert Boissonneault Oncology Institute. I just don't have a great memory for French names.

[Xavier]

Ya know, apparently many of us (me included) don't have enough to keep our minds occupied. We need to keep a certain edge or drama in our life. Being mellow and going with the flow must not be good for us or something. Sometimes we over-examine everything. Either you decide to donate or not. It seems pretty logical to me. It's a good cause or it isn't. The developer has motives or he doesn't - who cares? It's really not all that complicated. I personally like lots of choices, the very best available care and convenience. I don't have a horse in this race. I think all will survive.

Excuse me a second, I've got to get out my checkbook. Maybe I'll send them both some money so I can move on. Cards anyone?

Xavier

[same]

The B center is short for Robert Boissonneault Oncology Institute. I just don't have a great memory for French names.

Salybow, the "B" is an "institute", as it says in their name. ...It does not offer or have the services that a "cancer center" has for their patients.

[Russ_Boston]

Russ, I think the debate here and among Villagers is necessary. There is no argument that Moffitt is a first-class center. The issue is how it is being pushed down our throats with a lot of hype but no real answers as to the whys and whats.

Why do we need three cancer centers so close together? Why was Morse so insistent that one be built on Villages property? Why are Villagers asked to fund the equipment? Why was Relay for Life removed from TV? Who ultimately pays for the land, the building (we know who pays for the equipment)? What happens if the goals are not met in two years and, at the rate donations are being made, it doesn't look like it will? And so on and so forth.

I have called and asked some questions, but received no real answers -- just the party line.

One more question:

Can someone explain to me how (assume worst case scenario) any of this money will come out of the average villagers pocket? Assuming you don't donate to the cause. I haven't heard one thing that would lead me to that conclusion. And if that is the case then who cares if they try but fail? It will be just another medical building that Morse has to put up for re-lease.

It's perfectly natural to ask questions but usually the questions pop up based on a theory. Are we only concerned becuase we'd like to donate but feel uneasy about the situation?

Please tell me what I'm missing. And please just keep the answer to money. I'm really trying to understand the 'other' side. Thanks - Russ

PS: Red, who did you contact? Did you try the reps at the information location in the square? What questions did you ask?

[graciegirl]

Ya know, apparently many of us (me included) don't have enough to keep our minds occupied. We need to keep a certain edge or drama in our life. Being mellow and going with the flow must not be good for us or something. Sometimes we over-examine everything. Either you decide to donate or not. It seems pretty logical to me. It's a good cause or it isn't. The developer has motives or he doesn't - who cares? It's really not all that complicated. I personally like lots of choices, the very best available care and convenience. I don't have a horse in this race. I think all will survive.

Excuse me a second, I've got to get out my checkbook. Maybe I'll send them both some money so I can move on. Cards anyone?

Xavier

I LOVE the way you think. You think just like my Sweetie. You have a healthy attitude. I need to learn to be more like both of you.

[jebartle]

If Moffitt needs 6.1 million for equipment, and there are approx. 9000 + Villagers, about $75 per resident, could this be added to VCDD bill over
a 12 month period!? I know, shut up, and sit down.....:a040::a040::a040:

[Russ_Boston]

If Moffitt needs 6.1 million for equipment, and there are approx. 9000 + Villagers, about $75 per resident, could this be added to VCDD bill over
a 12 month period!? I know, shut up, and sit down.....:a040::a040::a040:

No not allowed by VCDD charter I don't think. (can anyone confirm/contradict this)?.

That is why I'm wondering if people are thinking this is going to cost us somehow. I don't see how it could.

[downeaster]

I see it as conflicting comments made by CFHA and RBOI. CFHA stated there was a need for donations to purchase equipment not currently available in this area. RBOI countered with a statement claiming they, RBOI, had the equipment and had had it for some time. They also stated CFHA was well aware of this.

It seems to me someone is not being honest and that could lead to bad decisions on the part of prospective donors.

I do have "a dog in this fight". I am waiting for the truth.

[Xavier]

I LOVE the way you think. You think just like my Sweetie. You have a healthy attitude. I need to learn to be more like both of you.

Don't you change a thing graciegirl.

Xavier

[Xavier]

I see it as conflicting comments made by CFHA and RBOI. CFHA stated there was a need for donations to purchase equipment not currently available in this area. RBOI countered with a statement claiming they, RBOI, had the equipment and had had it for some time. They also stated CFHA was well aware of this.

It seems to me someone is not being honest and that could lead to bad decisions on the part of prospective donors.

I do have "a dog in this fight". I am waiting for the truth.

Move over Michael Vick, while you're waitin' for the dog fight, I'm comin' around you because I don't think it matters. So, IMHO "That Dog Don't Hunt." You can save yourself a whole lot of time and effort and just decide NOT to donate.

Xavier

[redwitch]

It's hard not to donate. Garage sales are giving some of their profits to the Center. Clubs are putting part of their fees into giving for the Center. A lot of events (think the golf cart parade) are strictly for the Center. And, we've lost some events that were special and meaningful to us so that more funding could go to the Center.

I wouldn't mind donating if I were sure a third center was needed; that it is common practice for the populance to pay for the equipment; that we were treated as intelligent adults who deserve honest answers. I've asked these questions at the info center, by calling TV itself, by just asking around. As yet, not one of these have been answered satisfactorily.

I was told that TV needs its own Cancer Center because the Leesburg Center would not be sufficient. (Say HUH???) Other hospitals have been funded by voters via bonds, asking for donations is no different, but they're "sure" other hospitals have had buildings and equipment paid for in this manner. (???) As to honest answers, I haven't heard any yet that weren't fudged or guessed or were flat out lies. I'd even be happy with an "I don't know, but I'll find out get back to you," so long as they do get back to me.

[redwitch]

Oops, forgot the other question I asked -- why is Moffitt asking us to pay for the equipment. I was told that that was the only way Moffitt would agree to build here (guess I was told the truth on that one). Of course, they couched it much more politely.

[Pturner]

TV will own the building and equipment. What is Moffitt locating here? Full time doctors? Clinical trials?

[barb1191]

Here's an article from The Daily Sun entitled:
Care to improve dramatically when Moffitt Cancer Center opens here (http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html)

If the link doesn't work, copy and paste:

http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html

Is it misleading?

It certainly is not only misleading, but a down-right lie!! Read the article and you will see.

This article in the Daily Sun referred to the fact that the Developer would not only OWN the Moffitt Villages BUILDING AND EQUIPMENT, HOWEVER the Developer will ALSO control staffing the non-medical Administration of same!!!

The bottom line here is showing the true colors of the Developer when he kicked out of TV the ACS RELAY FOR LIFE rally because of their choice to not partake in his "golden fleece" organization with the Developer demanding half of the "take" from the relay.

[SALYBOW]

Strangely enough, my firend nancy received cancer therapy services there. They must have

[barb1191]

Strangely enough, my firend nancy received cancer therapy services there. They must have

You mean at Moffitt in Tampa? I also received cancer therapy services there as well. I now receive cancer therapy services at Ocala Oncology in Summerfield on Rte 441; a wonderful place that is close by TV. This has nothing to do with the Moffitt Tampa facility and everything to do with what's going on here in TV regarding the issues of the developer re TV Moffitt's one of many satellites.

"They must have" what? You say? I don't quite understand your message.

[Pturner]

Strangely enough, my firend nancy received cancer therapy services there. They must have


Hi Salybow,
I'm not sure if I understood this post. Are you referring to a Moffitt center or to the Robert Boissonneault Oncology Institute?

[DeafDeaf]

If Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute bought the equipment via loan and got reimbursed from insurance carriers for its clients, they paid off the cost! Why cannot the Moffitt Cancer Center do the same? Why should we donate money to the MOffitt center, helping making those doctors richer? Both the center and the medical staff will be reimbursed by almost all insurance carriers! I rather donate the money to the cause where it is impossible to be covered by any other than charities!

[Pturner]

I still don't understand what Moffitt will be providing at TV? Moffitt's website (http://www.moffitt.org/Site.aspx?spid=3F0FA45A032C45DD8D961586FD01A1EE) links to two news articles about the Leesburg and TV facilities. One printed in the Tampa Bay Business Journal (http://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/stories/2010/07/26/daily47.html) and one printed in dailycommercial.com (http://www.dailycommercial.com/localnews/story/073010Moffitt-).

From the linked articles, I don't necessarily get the impression that Moffitt doctors will practice at the TV facility. Here is a paragraph from Tampa Bay article:
"The partnership also includes a team of multidisciplinary Moffitt faculty members consulting with the hospitals’ physicians and surgeons on patient cases, educational seminars and professional exchanges. Patients under treatment at The Villages and Leesburg Regional hospitals have access through their physicians to clinical trials offered through Moffitt, as well as relaying of critical patient care information through telecommunications and electronic medical records development."
Read more: Moffitt Cancer Center adding facilities | Tampa Bay Business Journal (http://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/stories/2010/07/26/daily47.html#ixzz17Cu8fdfX)
Here is a paragraph from the Daily Commercial article:
"A team of multidisciplinary faculty members from Moffitt will consult with local physicians and surgeons on patient cases, and patients will have access to clinical trials offered through Moffitt."
Read more: Cancer centers coming to Leesburg, The Villages (http://www.dailycommercial.com/localnews/story/073010Moffitt-)
The article in The Villages Daily Sun (http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html) says:
"Moffitt will staff the center with its radiation oncologists, dosimitrists, radiation therapists, physicists and physicians."
So, are Moffitt doctors just consulting with local doctors or will Moffitt multidisciplinary doctors treat patients at The Villages? Does it make any difference to those who are enthusiastic about the new facility?

[barb1191]

If Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute bought the equipment via loan and got reimbursed from insurance carriers for its clients, they paid off the cost! Why cannot the Moffitt Cancer Center do the same? Why should we donate money to the MOffitt center, helping making those doctors richer? Both the center and the medical staff will be reimbursed by almost all insurance carriers! I rather donate the money to the cause where it is impossible to be covered by any other than charities!

Good question!! I suspect that the Developer is the only benefactor in all of these dealings since he controls his company The Villages Health System and is collecting donations to purchase and own all of the equipment that he doesn't pay for, to lease to Moffitt along with the building leased to Moffitt and the money that donors paid goes directly into the pocket of the Developer while he can write off the not-for-profit structure he's building, tax free (but we pay taxes for the hospitals) and the health insurance pays the medical services and the developer even controls the non-medical staff. Where is all of this money coming from? Yup we "donate" if one chooses along with paying taxes for these hospitals. Can't quite figure that one out yet. Think I read that in the Dec issue of the POA (read it online).

I do feel that as time passes and more and more information is learned that people are now thinking this over before giving their hard-earned money to a cause that in the end is really a mere moneymaker for the developer and not really in an ethical manner. I doubt that the developer has made NO deal to pass over any donations to Moffitt but merely charge them big time for the leases on TV premises and equipment owned by the developer. Oh yes, and I would imagine if he's staffing the non-medical then that's another billable item to Moffitt.

Since the developer was found guilty and paid dearly to the residents' law suit against him a few years back, and then the IRS questioning the developer's financial practices, and once more this request for donations for his company deal with Moffitt.....how much does it take to see the real picture? That seems good reasoning to doubt the developer's ethics.

Again, I can not stress enough how strongly I feel that the POA is the pinnacle of trust and resolve for the residents. I love it here and I know that the POA will do their due diligence for the residents. The Villages is paradise and there is no reason to complain about TV however residents have every right to know what's going on with our investment and the developer needs to communicate same.

Again, how can one trust a person with all of that baggage, along with the fact of what he did in kicking the ACS Relay for Life off the TV property. That did it for me!!! GRRRRR

[Larry Wilson]

Well said Barb! :BigApplause:
Don't forget the poaching in Montana.
The longer you live here and the more you talk to people, the less you trust this developer.

[graciegirl]

I still don't understand what Moffitt will be providing at TV? Moffitt's website (http://www.moffitt.org/Site.aspx?spid=3F0FA45A032C45DD8D961586FD01A1EE) links to two news articles about the Leesburg and TV facilities. One printed in the Tampa Bay Business Journal (http://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/stories/2010/07/26/daily47.html) and one printed in dailycommercial.com (http://www.dailycommercial.com/localnews/story/073010Moffitt-).

From the linked articles, I don't necessarily get the impression that Moffitt doctors will practice at the TV facility. Here is a paragraph from Tampa Bay article:
"The partnership also includes a team of multidisciplinary Moffitt faculty members consulting with the hospitals’ physicians and surgeons on patient cases, educational seminars and professional exchanges. Patients under treatment at The Villages and Leesburg Regional hospitals have access through their physicians to clinical trials offered through Moffitt, as well as relaying of critical patient care information through telecommunications and electronic medical records development."
Read more: Moffitt Cancer Center adding facilities | Tampa Bay Business Journal (http://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/stories/2010/07/26/daily47.html#ixzz17Cu8fdfX)
Here is a paragraph from the Daily Commercial article:
"A team of multidisciplinary faculty members from Moffitt will consult with local physicians and surgeons on patient cases, and patients will have access to clinical trials offered through Moffitt."
Read more: Cancer centers coming to Leesburg, The Villages (http://www.dailycommercial.com/localnews/story/073010Moffitt-)
The article in The Villages Daily Sun (http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html) says:
"Moffitt will staff the center with its radiation oncologists, dosimitrists, radiation therapists, physicists and physicians."
So, are Moffitt doctors just consulting with local doctors or will Moffitt multidisciplinary doctors treat patients at The Villages? Does it make any difference to those who are enthusiastic about the new facility?


The huge team of oncologists that treated both Helene and me here in Cincinnati do it this way. A group of doctors typically have a day a week at each of their centers. We see our oncologist on Monday in Blue Ash which is closest to us. The nurses and techs stay at each place all six days but the M.D.s rotate. The radiation oncologists stay in one place all of the time. (There are several radiation oncology sites around the city.)

I also want to mention that surgeons are not part of this group. The surgeons are picked by your oncologist, although some surgeons specialize in areas like breast surgery exclusively.

FYI.

And while on the subject for anyone recently diagnosed, there are 13 of my relatives that have had breast cancer. Only one has died from it.

Cancer can be so scary, but many, many of us have survived it.

[LittleDog]

"Again, how can one trust a person with all of that baggage, along with the fact of what he did in kicking the ACS Relay for Life off the TV property. That did it for me!!! GRRRRR"

I mentioned this thread to my wife who didn't believe that the ACS was off the Village property. Is this just hearsay or is there some proof that this is occuring?

John

[barb1191]

"Again, how can one trust a person with all of that baggage, along with the fact of what he did in kicking the ACS Relay for Life off the TV property. That did it for me!!! GRRRRR"

I mentioned this thread to my wife who didn't believe that the ACS was off the Village property. Is this just hearsay or is there some proof that this is occuring?

John

This is NOT hearsay, John. The ACS Relay for Life organization sent (snail mail) a letter to all relay participants explaining that the event will not be in TV. If you peruse the various threads re this subject, you will find this letter I posted on TOTV. The ACS RFL letter I posted is real and received by my neighbor who participates each year in this event.

I can understand why your wife finds this hard to fathom, however, it's documented and for real.

[Whalen]

"Again, how can one trust a person with all of that baggage, along with the fact of what he did in kicking the ACS Relay for Life off the TV property. That did it for me!!! GRRRRR"

I mentioned this thread to my wife who didn't believe that the ACS was off the Village property. Is this just hearsay or is there some proof that this is occuring?

John

This is NOT hearsay, John. The ACS Relay for Life organization sent (snail mail) a letter to all relay participants explaining that the event will not be in TV. If you peruse the various threads re this subject, you will find this letter I posted on TOTV. The ACS RFL letter I posted is real and received by my neighbor who participates each year in this event.

John,

Barb is correct. I was at the meeting at which we were told that the annual Relay for Life event can not be held anywhere on Village property!

Please see the following thread, it says it all.

https://www.talkofthevillages.com/forums/showthread.php?t=33642&page=6

[graciegirl]

To me, it is just as bad to drop a good project because of our disappointment at the Morses as it is for the Morses to drop a good project because they want to promote "their" fund raiser.

The Relay for Life still exists closeby. It was damn ugly of the Morses to take away their support of it, but it is still going on and real people still need the real emotional benefits and support and solace it presents.

We have to look past the forest for the trees.

I still want to know why the Moffitt center isn't paying for their own equipment.

And we can rant and rave and point fingers until the cows come home and that isn't really helping anyone.

We know that the Morses removed their backing of the the Relay for Life.

The question now is, Is the Moffit center being in The Villages going to help us or just the Morses name?

[zcaveman]

Depending on your feelings, you might want to check out the ads for the various events in TV. For example, the Lipizzan Stallions which will be here on Dec 19 and 20, the blurb at the top of the ad states that the "Proceeds to benefit the Villages Moffitt Cancer Center".

So it seems that they are going to TRY and get the money out of us one way or the other.

[Number 6]

I still want to know why the Moffitt center isn't paying for their own equipment.

................and the Leesburg center is.

[Reelimpatient]

FYI, any event held in the villages, is required to donate a portion if not all the proceeds to the Moffitt project, or it will not be allowed to be held in the villages.

That is exactly why the Relay for Life got moved. Tis' Sad

[Hancle704]

I have read many of the postings about this issue and think that if more cancer care comes to TV, that's great. If folks wish to donate their time and funds that's admirable. There is just something about this that keeps me wondering if this is deja vu all over again.

After justifying the need and what seemed like a long drawn out battle with LRMC about the construction of a small hospital in TV there was not much time that passed and it became obvious to all, that this original 60 bed hospital with no surgery capabilities and a strained ER Dept was not large enough to handle the near term growth of the tri-county senior population. So shortly after it opened it was proposed by our local State Rep that a Hospital Taxing Authority be created with funds just coming from Sumter County Village Residents who lived in the proposed Hospital Taxing District. It was conceived to be similar to the Hospital Taxing District created for a portion of Lake County to support LRMC.

There was much discussion about this especially after it was learned that a portion of the funds raised would be given to a Morse Family Foundation.

We were told that the much needed expansion of TVRH would never take place unless this taxing district were created. After much furor, it was put on the ballot and the proposal was defeated.

Suddenly, deals with LRMC were worked out and both hospitals went through major expansions and within a few years after residents were told it couldn't happen without the added tax, construction began and TVRH was expanded to the larger facility with increased surgical services and an expanded ER Dept. that exists today. I guess my point is that, maybe there is more to this than what we are being told about the need to have fund raising to equip the new Moffitt Cancer Facility in TV.

I tried searching on TOTV to see if there were posts about the Taxing District, but I guess all that preceded TOTV. I'm sure there is still more info available in the public domain about what transpired several years ago and how it is starting to sound like what is happening today.

As I have gotten older my memory is not as sharp, so I invite others who have a better recollection of the failed Hospital Taxing District to share with newer Villagers what took place then and why it seems somewhat similar to what is being presented now.

[redwitch]

First I've heard of the past proposed Hospital Taxing District. Sounds like it was ugly. I get the feeling Moffitt will get ugly, too.

This is also the first I have heard that ANY event taking place in TV has to give a portion of its proceeds to Moffitt. That's just obscene. I really would love to see the Lippizaners, but not if it profits something I really don't believe in and, as yet, I really get the feeling we're going to regret Moffitt being here.

As to why Moffitt won't pay for the equipment here but not in Leesburg, my understanding is that Moffitt didn't want to come here but the Morses offered them a deal they couldn't refuse -- free land, building and equipment. And they don't even have to send their doctors here -- they can consult via phone and internet. Hey, if I were Moffitt, I'd take the deal. It's a sweet one for them.

[barb1191]

I have read many of the postings about this issue and think that if more cancer care comes to TV, that's great. If folks wish to donate their time and funds that's admirable. There is just something about this that keeps me wondering if this is deja vu all over again.

After justifying the need and what seemed like a long drawn out battle with LRMC about the construction of a small hospital in TV there was not much time that passed and it became obvious to all, that this original 60 bed hospital with no surgery capabilities and a strained ER Dept was not large enough to handle the near term growth of the tri-county senior population. So shortly after it opened it was proposed by our local State Rep that a Hospital Taxing Authority be created with funds just coming from Sumter County Village Residents who lived in the proposed Hospital Taxing District. It was conceived to be similar to the Hospital Taxing District created for a portion of Lake County to support LRMC.

There was much discussion about this especially after it was learned that a portion of the funds raised would be given to a Morse Family Foundation.

We were told that the much needed expansion of TVRH would never take place unless this taxing district were created. After much furor, it was put on the ballot and the proposal was defeated.

Suddenly, deals with LRMC were worked out and both hospitals went through major expansions and within a few years after residents were told it couldn't happen without the added tax, construction began and TVRH was expanded to the larger facility with increased surgical services and an expanded ER Dept. that exists today. I guess my point is that, maybe there is more to this than what we are being told about the need to have fund raising to equip the new Moffitt Cancer Facility in TV.

I tried searching on TOTV to see if there were posts about the Taxing District, but I guess all that preceded TOTV. I'm sure there is still more info available in the public domain about what transpired several years ago and how it is starting to sound like what is happening today.

As I have gotten older my memory is not as sharp, so I invite others who have a better recollection of the failed Hospital Taxing District to share with newer Villagers what took place then and why it seems somewhat similar to what is being presented now.

Oh yes Hancle704, your memory serves you well. I remember the vote to impose a special tax only to Sumter Cty, to expand LRMC. What's wrong with this picture, sez I. The developer requests just Sumter Cty to pay for this expansion and yet this building services THE PUBLIC! That was a no-brainer that the Sumter Cty citizens were not buying into such an unbalanced situation and of course it didn't pass. I'll bet that if one digs deep enough into the "archives" of the POA publications, they will find the documentation verifying it all.

Unfortunately, even though the developer succeeded in building a phenominal community that continues to flourish, and for which the residents are all happy campers, this does not excuse the fact that the developer seems to have become greedy, extremely unethical and dishonest in so many instances and above all so very antisocial and uncommunicative. Does he think he can get away with all this greed just because we all love living here? He's digging himself a hole that is becoming much deeper than the lawsuit he lost between he and the POA a few years ago.

Speaking of the POA....We must all rally round and give our full support to the POA because they happen to truly care about the residents and they have proven themselves to be mighty in their efforts to do what's right for the residents.

Am stepping down from the soapbox. g'nite.....barb1191

[Number 6]

As to why Moffitt won't pay for the equipment here but not in Leesburg, my understanding is that Moffitt didn't want to come here but the Morses offered them a deal they couldn't refuse -- free land, building and equipment. And they don't even have to send their doctors here -- they can consult via phone and internet. Hey, if I were Moffitt, I'd take the deal. It's a sweet one for them.


I think it was CFHA that did not want to build in the Villages. Their feasibility study only supported one facility and they wanted to locate it on the Leesburg campus, in spite of many of us complaining that it should be located where the patients are. While the equipment will be paid for through donations, they will still have the lease the building from the Developer. It is a very good deal for CFHA because the donated equipment represents $125-$150K in cash flow per month.
Now ask yourself, why did the Developer find it important to have a center at the Villages?

[Whalen]

I think it was CFHA that did not want to build in the Villages. Their feasibility study only supported one facility and they wanted to locate it on the Leesburg campus, in spite of many of us complaining that it should be located where the patients are. While the equipment will be paid for through donations, they will still have the lease the building from the Developer. It is a very good deal for CFHA because the donated equipment represents $125-$150K in cash flow per month.
Now ask yourself, why did the Developer find it important to have a center at the Villages?

Bragging rights.
Looks good on resume.
"Major cancer center located in the Villages".

As to the locations of the centers many of us in the southern part of the Villages, Hemingway, Hadley, Buttonwood etc., are closer to the Leesburg campus.

[Russ_Boston]

Interesting discussion about the tax vote.

BUT

What was the bottome line result:

We not only have 1 CFHA 200 bed hospital (on site) but we have another proposed for the Brownwood area (200 bed on site). And that was done without a Sumter county tax burden.

We will have 1 new cancer center (albeit affliate) on site without a Sumter county tax burden.

TV becomes an even more desirable place because of this.

Maybe some of this 'push' seems to smell a little and everyone has the absolute right to question it but the bottom line somehow seems worth it. At least to me. As a health care professional I'd like to have it ALL including supporting multiple charity organizations. But if it is a choice between on site local care and fund raising efforts for national charities - I'll take the on site care facilties.

[Number 6]

So what you are saying is that the end justifies the means.

[Russ_Boston]

So what you are saying is that the end justifies the means.

As long as the means don't 'mean' that we are taxed and any money is given freely then I'm OK with that. What I mean to say is that I don't feel that any laws are being broken here. As long as you are an informed donor then it is your choice. But please, as always, do your homework before giving money to any charity. I don't think anyone is trying to swindle any money. Many, many charities have backroom deals that, if known, might turn away prospective donors.

Try checking out this site: www.charitynavigator.org (http://www.charitynavigator.org) They rank almost every US charity. Moffitt only gets two stars (out of 4) but that is not bad when looking at some other more well known charities. The United Way of Mass only gets 2 out of 4 and everyone seems to trust them blindly.

Bottom line is that the money is donations. Give if you want. If an event's proceeds are going to Moffitt then protest by not going to the event. If enough people do it they'd get the hint. Money talks!

[prof_vi]

Hi!
Check out http://www.ocala.com/article/20100627/articles/6271008 and note the following:

Federal agencies are looking into the growing trend of physician groups utilizing an exemption in anti-kickback law to their advantage.

The Stark Law, created in the early 1990s, was designed to prevent doctors from self-referring patients for service. The in-office ancillary service exception was created so doctors could provide same-day services for efficient patient care.

This group of urologists and their practices are taking advantage of this "loophole" in order to get the most lucrative payments from Medicare and potentially subjecting their patients to radiation they do not need in order to make this profit. They are frightened of what Moffitt represents - objective, world-class treatments by a Cancer Center that is listed in the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as a comprehensive cancer center (the only one listed in the state of Florida). If I had a choice of hospitals, treatment centers, and doctors, I would go to Moffitt and not Boissoneault and their doctors who just want patients to undergo their extremely expensive treatment for prostate cancer.

I applaud the Morse family for not buying what Boissoneault is selling and instead getting us a facility that is world-class and will provide us the best care with the most convenience.

Best,
Vi

[Number 6]

I applaud the Morse family for not buying what Boissoneault is selling and instead getting us a facility that is world-class and will provide us the best care with the most convenience.

With exactly the same equipment that Boissoneault has. So if you don't want the expensive treatment, don't go to Moffitt. It appears that you will have to go to CFUS for that. Seriously, there is not one best way to treat any given cancer. If you are saying that the physicians at Boissoneault are performing unnecessary treatments, yoiu should first have some proof and then take that to the State Health Department.

Also Moffit will use the in office ancillary exemption provided by Stark. Most large practices do.

[ajakk]

I am surprised that no one has mentioned that the Mayo Clinic, yes the "WORLD" renowned Mayo Clinic, is now associated with the Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute. Believe it or not, the RBOI was able to accomplish this without asking for donations. Check it out on their web site. I went to the open house on December 4 and was absolutely impressed with the facility and their fully paid for equipment. They are only seeing about half of the patients they could see so why donate to another facility just barely across the parking lot?

I too wondered what happens to all the money donated to the CFHA in the name of Moffitt if the money falls short. I emailed the public information officer, Michelle Foley, for Moffitt in Tampa and asked that same question. The reply was she did not know and would forward my email to the most appropriate person, no reply so far.

I feel donating is a personal issue and should not be forced on us as the Developer is trying to do. I also feel the real story of what is going on is yet to be heard, if at all.

In the meantime, take pride in the fact we already have a world class facility in TV.

[prof_vi]

Hi!
Boissoneault has used a loophole in a law that allows drs to do x-rays and ultrasounds in their own office. A group of 17 urologists have gotten together and created this facility to which they refer all their patients.


Prostate cancer patients make up 20 percent of Robert Boissoneault patients. But they bring in more than half the group's revenue, because Medicare reimbursement for their treatment is so relatively high. 20% of their patients are prostate cancer patients and they are 30% of the revenue.

The stats are that 30% of the prostate cancer patients are referred to Boissoneault who don't need this type of treatment - there are other options but the patients are not told of what those options are.

The Stark Law, created in the early 1990s, was designed to prevent doctors from self-referring patients for service. The in-office ancillary service exception was created so doctors could provide same-day services for efficient patient care....MedPac, or the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission, noted in a study this month that ancillary service volumes are growing rapidly, contributing to the growing cost of Medicare....Radiation therapy volumes increased by nearly 8 percent each year from 2003 to 2008. Specialists other than radiation oncologists raked in $104 million in Medicare payments for radiation therapy in 2008, an 84 percent increase from 2003.

Moffitt is an NCI-recognized Cancer Center - the only one in FLorida. They can provide a more patient-centered type of care that is based on the type of cancer and the best treatment - not just a linear accelerator.

You can find this info by Googling - Boissoneault Disagreeing Doctors. I had to find out more because of the ads that Boissoneault was putting in the paper. I am not a champion of the Morse family but in this case I applaud them for making the better choice and not buying what Boissoneault is selling.

[Russ_Boston]

This is now ludicrous. Bye!

[prof_vi]

Hi!
You said "I am surprised that no one has mentioned that the Mayo Clinic, yes the "WORLD" renowned Mayo Clinic, is now associated with the Robert Boissoneault Oncology Institute. Believe it or not, the RBOI was able to accomplish this without asking for donations. Check it out on their web site. I went to the open house on December 4 and was absolutely impressed with the facility and their fully paid for equipment. They are only seeing about half of the patients they could see so why donate to another facility just barely across the parking lot?"

What website are you mentioning? I found it on the Boissoneault Oncology Institue website. I think it is great that they are now availing themselves of an affiliation with the Mayo. It will only be great for cancer patients in the surrounding Central FL area. However, it is interesting that it is only now when Moffitt is becoming a reality that they have sought out the affiliation when their income stream may be under stress in a year. Personally I think the negative ads from BOI are awful and not a good reflection on BOI. They should stop them and concentrate on treating their patients.

The equipment that BOI has purchased has been paid for by patients one way or the other! In this case, Medicare has paid for most of it. In order to fast track Moffitt in TV, we are being asked for donations - they are not demanding it but asking. And the developer is donating the building. When patients go to Moffitt, they won't be asked if they donated and they won't be turned away if they didn't donate.

Best to all and health in the New Year,
Vi

[Number 6]

And the developer is donating the building

No, he is building the building to be leased to CFHA.

[Russ_Boston]

No, he is building the building to be leased to CFHA.

Yep, doing what business men do every day. If it fails they have an empty building. If it works he gets richer.

[Xavier]

No, he is building the building to be leased to CFHA.

Number 6:

Way off topic, but ... what is it that you are doing that is taking the name of the person that is being quoted off your responses? We have to go back and find the original post so that we know WHO you are referring to. Is that the way they do it in Pine City?! :shrug:

Xavier

[bike42]

Hi!
Boissoneault has used a loophole in a law that allows drs to do x-rays and ultrasounds in their own office.

Read the article -- very enlightening:
http://www.ocala.com/article/20100627/articles/6271008

[Indydealmaker]

Number 6:

Way off topic, but ... what is it that you are doing that is taking the name of the person that is being quoted off your responses? We have to go back and find the original post so that we know WHO you are referring to. Is that the way they do it in Pine City?! :shrug:

Xavier

It appears that the original poster's name does not show up when only a portion of the post is copied.

[Talk Host]

appears original poster's name does not show
only a portion
the post is copied.


I don't think that's correct. I believe you have to deliberately take it out.

Or copy it and quote it yourself

[Indydealmaker]

[QUOTE=deliberately take it out.[/QUOTE]

You are right. Instead of saying
"copy a portion", I should have said "when you delete all but a portion".
Which of course you can do while still leaving the originator's name in place if you are careful. OOps. I was not careful.

[zcaveman]

I have been reading all of these posts but I am not really concerned with who donates and why.

My question is: when I go to a doctor and he refers me to an oncologist who determines whom I go to for treatment- Moffitt in Tampa or Boissoneault in TV or Mayo in Jax?

When we were in NJ, my wife was diagnosed with cancer, she was referred to the Sloan-Kettering doctor at Dover Hospital in Dover. The doctor there took care of her and treated/radiated her. As many know, Sloan-Kettering is out of NY. This doctor was a two or three day a week doctor in Dover. While he provided great care, I an pretty sure he also worked out of NY.

Wouldn't be this the same thing for the Moffitt doctors?

Just asking.

[Russ_Boston]

I have been reading all of these posts but I am not really concerned with who donates and why.

My question is: when I go to a doctor and he refers me to an oncologist who determines whom I go to for treatment- Moffitt in Tampa or Boissoneault in TV or Mayo in Jax?

When we were in NJ, my wife was diagnosed with cancer, she was referred to the Sloan-Kettering doctor at Dover Hospital in Dover. The doctor there took care of her and treated/radiated her. As many know, Sloan-Kettering is out of NY. This doctor was a two or three day a week doctor in Dover. While he provided great care, I an pretty sure he also worked out of NY.

Wouldn't be this the same thing for the Moffitt doctors?

Just asking.

Z - my research (with some experience up here) shows that you are mostly on the money. It seems that being a Moffitt affiliated physician means that you certified by them and trained in their latest approach. These doctors have access to Moffitt's latest treatment modalities etc. I don't think the approach is too dis-similar to how the Mayo clinic does it. There are 'mayo' affiliated centers in most areas.

At least that is my take. This would be a great question, and one that one get answered, to take to the Moffitt info center.

[downeaster]

Z - my research (with some experience up here) shows that you are mostly on the money. It seems that being a Moffitt affiliated physician means that you certified by them and trained in their latest approach. These doctors have access to Moffitt's latest treatment modalities etc. I don't think the approach is too dis-similar to how the Mayo clinic does it. There are 'mayo' affiliated centers in most areas.

At least that is my take. This would be a great question, and one that one get answered, to take to the Moffitt info center.

There is a Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville. I believe it is very similar to the one in Rochester.

The story about it's creation in Jacksonville is interesting. It seems one of the Davis family (founding owners of the Winn Dixie stores) was a patient at the clinic in Rochester. He was so impressed he offered to donate the land if Mayo would build a clinic in Jacksonville. I don't now of any arrangement for donations to buy equipment or if anyone agreed to finance and build. The rest, as they say, is history.

I am not swearing to the validity of the above. Maybe some of our members also from Jacksonville can shed some more light on this subject.

[ajakk]

The following is from the Moffitt site regarding affiliates. Nowhere does it state that Moffitt staffs an affiliate facility. It appears that consulting is streamlined for the affiliate and record sharing is easier. It appears the doctors don't have to be Moffitt trained. By the way, Ocala Regional is an affiliate.

1) Moffitt Affiliate Membership is offered to physicians whose clinical practice is at least 50% oncology or who have demonstrated an active interest in oncology. Benefits of Moffitt Affiliate membership include regular communication about Moffitt educational conferences and other activities.

2) Central Florida Health Alliance, Leesburg
In July 2010, Moffitt and Central Florida Health Alliance expanded their relationship beyond the terms of the original affiliation agreement developed in 2003. The new partnership will deliver state-of-the-art cancer care in two new facilities to be built on the campuses of Leesburg Regional Medical Center and The Villages Health System. Moffitt will work with both hospitals, located in Lake and Sumter counties, Fla., to improve the cancer treatment outcomes - and availability of advanced cancer care treatment options - with a focus on quality and strengthening research capabilities within the healthcare community. Plans also include working together to improve cancer prevention, health and wellness, and access to Moffitt’s Total Cancer Care™ program for cancer patients in the community. A team of multidisciplinary Moffitt faculty members consult with the hospitals’ physicians and surgeons on patient cases, educational seminars and professional exchanges. Patients under treatment at The Villages Health System Hospital and Leesburg Regional Medical Center will have access through their physicians to clinical trials offered through Moffitt, as well as streamlined telecommunications and electronic medical record exchange. With the stronger partnership, we expect to provide patients with a seamless transition of care between the community and academic systems and incorporate a single patient navigation system to help coordinate and organize patients’ personal cancer treatment to ultimately improve patient satisfaction. Each facility is scheduled to begin construction on their respective campus in the fall of 2010 with completion dates in late 2011.

[Number 6]

Number 6:

Way off topic, but ... what is it that you are doing that is taking the name of the person that is being quoted off your responses? We have to go back and find the original post so that we know WHO you are referring to. Is that the way they do it in Pine City?! :shrug:

Xavier

Well, you learn something new every day. I never used the reply that way. How is this? As for Pine City, I sure don't miss it this time of year. Are you familiar with that town?

[Number 6]

Yep, doing what business men do every day. If it fails they have an empty building. If it works he gets richer.

Just keeping the record straight. There are folks that think the Developer is donating the building.

[Xavier]

Well, you learn something new every day. I never used the reply that way. How is this? As for Pine City, I sure don't miss it this time of year. Are you familiar with that town?

Yes. We had homes in Elmira Heights (2), Horseheads and Big Flats. I student taught for half a semester at Pine City School way back. The first commercial pizza I ever had when I was a kid growing up in Mansfield was from Masia's in Pine City. That was long before Pudgies' and Pizza Hut was ever thought of.

Xavier

[prof_vi]

Hi!
You can check http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html which clearly states that "The Villages developer offered to finance and build a 51,668-square-foot building for The Villages Health System that Moffitt could use." Does that answer the question about who is building this?

Best,
Vi

[barb1191]

Hi!
You can check http://www.thevillagesdailysun.com/news/local/article_19a9c0e6-db38-11df-aa22-001cc4c002e0.html which clearly states that "The Villages developer offered to finance and build a 51,668-square-foot building for The Villages Health System that Moffitt could use." Does that answer the question about who is building this?

Best,
Vi

"....that Moffitt could use." I doubt there is any question that the developer is building the structure, the question is...."use" is a pretty broad term. Is Moffitt leasing the VHS building? "Leasing" being the operative word.

[Jane52]

Ya know, apparently many of us (me included) don't have enough to keep our minds occupied. We need to keep a certain edge or drama in our life. Being mellow and going with the flow must not be good for us or something. Sometimes we over-examine everything. Either you decide to donate or not. It seems pretty logical to me. It's a good cause or it isn't. The developer has motives or he doesn't - who cares? It's really not all that complicated. I personally like lots of choices, the very best available care and convenience. I don't have a horse in this race. I think all will survive.

Excuse me a second, I've got to get out my checkbook. Maybe I'll send them both some money so I can move on. Cards anyone?

Xavier

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