Dra. Magda Cordeiro

Oncologist 

Day Hospital Oncology
Grupo HPA  Saúde – Alvor

HPA Magazine 21 // 2024

In recent years, a revolutionary concept in cancer treatment has been gaining momentum - the Oncology Day Hospital. These specialized units are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support to cancer patients in the comfort of a single facility. 
By offering a range of global services, including diagnostic methods, innovative treatments, specialty consultations, nutrition, and emotional support, Oncology Day Hospitals have transformed the way cancer is treated and contributed to improving the overall experience of oncology patients.
 

A holistic approach to cancer treatment, convenient and comfortable
The Oncology Day Hospitals of the HPA Saúde Group have adopted a holistic approach to cancer treatment, recognizing that the strategy goes far beyond medical procedures. 
These units prioritize the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of patients, offering a range of support services such as counseling, emotional support, nutritional guidance, pain management, and rehabilitation programs. 
By addressing the multifaceted needs of patients, we provide a comprehensive and personalized approach to cancer treatment.
One significant advantage of these units is the convenience they offer. 
Unlike traditional hospital units where patients may need inpatient care, these units provide outpatient services, allowing patients to return home after treatment sessions. 
This not only streamlines the burden but also enables patients to maintain their daily routines, spend time with loved ones, and recover in a familiar environment. 
Additionally, the comfortable and welcoming atmosphere helps alleviate the anxiety and stress often associated with hospital visits.

Innovative resources
The Oncology Day Hospitals of the HPA Saúde Group are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and technology, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality care. 
Examples include the ability to perform liquid biopsies, genetic and mutational tests, advanced chemotherapy infusion units, immunotherapy, monoclonal antibody treatment, and other targeted therapies. 
These units prioritize the latest medical advances to offer innovative diagnostic and treatment methods while attempting to minimize potential side effects. 
The presence of experienced oncologists, specialized nurses, patient managers, and highly qualified oncology-focused staff further enhances the level of care and expertise available to our clients.
The oncologists in our units actively participate in weekly multidisciplinary decision consultations and have the facility to access national and international research and clinical trials, contributing to the advancement of cancer treatment and therapies. 
By offering patients the opportunity to participate in these studies, they play a crucial role in expanding the boundaries of medical science and improving treatment outcomes. 
Patients benefit from access to cutting-edge treatments, giving them hope and potentially life-saving options.

Nursing team, patient managers, and operational assistants
In the Oncology Day Hospital of the HPA Saúde Group, nurses, patient managers, and operational assistants work exclusively in oncology, playing a vital role. Their expertise and commitment go beyond scheduling exams, administering medications, and monitoring vital signs. 
These highly specialized professionals are at the forefront of caring for patients who have just been diagnosed with cancer, providing emotional support, education, and guidance throughout the disease's stages. 
They have specialized knowledge and training in cancer treatment, well aware of the complexities of different types of cancer, treatment modalities, and potential side effects. This experience allows them to provide accurate information, answer questions, and guide patients and their families throughout the process. Their deep understanding of cancer treatments and their impact on patients' physical and emotional well-being makes them indispensable members of the healthcare team.
The diagnosis and treatment of cancer can be emotionally devastating for patients and their families. Our nurses and operational assistants are skilled in providing emotional support, actively listening to patients' concerns, and offering empathy during difficult times. They create a safe and compassionate environment that encourages open communication, helping patients cope with fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. Through their presence and genuine care, they become trusted allies in the emotional journey of cancer treatment. They are excellent educators, ensuring that patients have a complete understanding of their diagnosis, treatment options, and possible side effects. They take the time to explain medical procedures, medications, and self-care practices, empowering patients to actively participate in their own care.
By providing clear and concise information, oncology nurses offer patients the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and actively manage their treatment and recovery. 
They often act as advocates for patients, ensuring that their unique needs and preferences are heard and respected. They collaborate with other members of the healthcare team to coordinate comprehensive care, including scheduling appointments, coordinating tests, procedures, and addressing any barriers to treatment.
Managing symptoms and side effects related to cancer is a critical aspect of oncology nursing. These dedicated professionals closely monitor patients, promptly addressing any complications or adverse reactions related to treatment. They provide guidance on pain management, nausea control, fatigue, and other common symptoms, seeking to improve the quality of life for patients during treatment. Oncology specialized nurses are also qualified to recognize signs of distress or mental health issues, referring patients to appropriate support resources and services.
 

Nuclear team of the Oncology Day Hospital of HPA Alvor
Cristina Oliveira: Oncology Patient Manager. With over 14 years of experience, dedicated exclusively to oncology patients since the unit's opening.
Pedro Henrique: Medical Action Assistant with over 12 years of professional experience and 5 years of exclusive dedication to oncology.
Nurse Mara Röhrborn: Nurse in charge of the unit since its inauguration.
Nurse Monika Tobschirbel: Nurse with 28 years of professional experience, with specific training in cytostatic administration, dedicated exclusively to oncology for 5 years.
Nurse Cláudia Faustino: Nurse with over 12 years of experience, dedicated to oncology for 5 years and responsible for the national oncology registry (RON).
Nurse Marta Rodrigues: Nurse for 15 years, with postgraduate training in oncology nursing, exclusively dedicated to oncology for 3 years, also serving as a dynamic link in the HPA Alvor Day Hospital team in the Local Team of the Infection Prevention and Control Program and Antimicrobial Resistance.
Dr. André Cruz: Coordinator of the Oncology Unit of the HPA Saúde Group; Assistant Hospital Oncologist, with postgraduate training in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary-pancreatic pathology; scientific activity with regular participation in conferences as a speaker and publication of articles; coordinator of the Algarve Medical Oncology Meetings; principal investigator in clinical trials; scientific consultancy in the pharmaceutical industry; collaborator in the Biomedical Sciences Course and Integrated Master's in Medicine at the University of Algarve.
Dr. Magda Cordeiro: Assistant Hospital Oncologist; with a master's degree in musculoskeletal tumors; specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of all solid tumors, particularly in breast cancer, digestive tumors, and soft tissue sarcomas.

Data from the Oncology Day Hospital of HPA Alvor
Since the inauguration of the HPA Alvor Day Hospital in 2018, we have observed a progressive increase in the demand and scheduling of Oncology consultations every year. During 2023, we have already conducted more than 900 medical oncology consultations and more than 700 treatments in our unit.
Sensitive to the growing incidence of cancer, the increase in our population, both national and foreign, as well as the consequent trend toward increased demand for our services, we currently have a planned construction project aimed at expanding the physical structure of the service.
The new facilities, expected to be inaugurated in the coming months, will be integrated in the vicinity of senology, gastroenterology, pneumology, immunology, and otolaryngology units, aiming to integrate the concept of an Oncology Unit. This is a project that will double our response capacity, and we believe it will meet the needs of patients from the Barlavento Algarvio and Baixo Alentejo regions.

Final Considerations: 
Oncology Day Hospitals have revolutionized cancer treatment, providing comprehensive and patient-centered services in a convenient and welcoming environment. By embracing this model at the HPA Alvor Day Hospital, we have undoubtedly improved the quality of life for our patients. We are in constant growth and will continue to make significant progress in the fight against cancer. We believe that expanding our response capacity and integrating new facilities are essential steps to meet the growing needs of our community, both nationally and internationally. The commitment of our dedicated and highly qualified team, coupled with technological advancements and medical innovations, reinforces our determination to provide the highest standard of oncological care. Together, we will continue to face the challenges of cancer, offering hope, support, and cutting-edge treatments to our patients.