Better Doctor-Patient Communication

Funds Now Available for Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnostic Services in Southwest Virginia

We are pleased to announce that funds are now available to provide breast cancer screening and diagnostic services to uninsured and underinsured individuals in Southwest Virginia. VBCF has committed $190,000 for 2023 with partners in Abingdon (Ballad Health), Lynchburg (Centra Health), Roanoke/NRV, and Southside (Carilion Clinic).

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, VBCF’s Screening and Diagnostic Services Fund will cover the cost of mammograms, biopsies, and other diagnostic tests for those who cannot afford these essential services.

Bridging the Gap: Enhancing Doctor-Patient Communication for Better Outcomes

Oftentimes, having a conversation with doctors in a medical setting where they are delivering information can be complicated. This can be due to the amount of information people are receiving, the emotional state of people who are receiving the news, and the medical language used by doctors. If patients are not in a place where they can ask doctors questions about what they hear, information can be missed or even misunderstood at times. This communication gap between providers and patients can have serious implications on patient health and outcomes.

Stay Up-to-Date with Breast Cancer News: Latest Developments in 2023

We understand the importance of staying informed about breast cancer research and policy, which is why we've curated some of the latest news from the first few months of 2023 to keep our readers up-to-date. Topics include a bill in Pennsylvania to cover BRCA testing and breast MRIs for high-risk women, the relationship between obesity and breast cancer risk for people with BRCA mutations, a new drug for premenopausal breast cancer with no ovarian suppression, the impact of social and biological factors on breast cancer racial disparity, and the use of a virus to help treat triple-negative breast cancer. Keep reading for more information on these exciting developments in breast cancer research and policy.

Study Investigates Impact of Breast Cancer Chemotherapy on Memory, Attention, and Processing Speed

Virginia Commonwealth University is conducting a study to better understand the impact of breast cancer chemotherapy on brain health, including memory, attention, processing speed, multitasking, and problem-solving. The study is seeking women between the ages of 35-68 who are newly diagnosed with breast cancer, breast cancer survivors who have completed chemotherapy treatment at least one month ago, or healthy volunteers in good health with no major medical or psychiatric conditions. Participation involves two study visits, including a brain MRI scan and online cognitive testing and questionnaires. Compensation is available.