NYS Dept. of Health lauds OCO Cancer Services

OSWEGO – Oswego County Opportunities (OCO) Cancer Services Program of the North Country received the mark of excellence from the New York State Dept. of Health (NYSDOH) during a recent visit to the Programs new offices at 10 George Street in Oswego

Funded through the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), the Cancer Services Program undergoes annual case management audits. During these reviews, NYSDOH evaluates client files and surveys and the resources maintained internally for Cancer Services clients. In addition, the program’s provider network and its capacity to effectively deliver screening services throughout the region are assessed.

“These annual audits reflect our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care for our community,” said Carolyn Handville, Coordinator of the Cancer Services Program of the North Country.  “We are proud to demonstrate accountability, quality, and strong partnerships that ensure individuals across our region have access to life?saving cancer screening services.”

NYSDOH identified the following as best practices demonstrated by the Cancer Services Program:

• Client files were maintained electronically, submitted in a timely manner, well organized, and included appropriate signatures and dates.
• All required client consents were signed and properly included in client files.
• All required forms and barrier assessments were completed.
• Documentation was exemplary, with results obtained promptly and follow-up completed for abnormal results timely.
• Communication between clients and providers was effective and well documented.
• The Cancer Services Program of the North Country met all program standards and exceeded the statewide average in 10 program performance measures throughout New York State.

“This recognition from the New York State Department of Health is a reflection of the exceptional work being done by our Cancer Services Program team,” said Leanna Cleveland, OCO Health & Nutrition Department Director. “Their commitment to thorough documentation, timely follow-up, strong provider communication, and compassionate support for clients ensures that individuals throughout the North Country have access to the screenings and care they need. We are extremely proud of their dedication and the high standards they continue to uphold.”

“The Cancer Services Program of the North Country demonstrated exceptional attention to detail, strong case management practices, and a clear commitment to meeting the needs of clients,” said a representative from the New York State Department of Health. “Their timely follow-up, thorough documentation, and effective coordination with providers reflect the high standards we look for in programs serving communities across New York State.”

Now located in OCO’s remodeled Oswego office at 10 George Street, the Cancer Services Program is one of OCO’s most impactful programs providing potentially life-saving cancer screenings, at no cost, to uninsured and underinsured men and women aged 40-64. Services offered through the program include:

• Breast Cancer Screening (Clinical Breast Exams, Mammograms, Breast Ultrasounds, Breast Biopsies)
• Cervical Cancer Screening (Pap/Pelvic Exams, high-risk HPV test, Colposcopy, LEEP)
• Colorectal Cancer Screening (Fecal Occult Blood Test/Fecal Immunochemical Test Kit, Colonoscopy CT colonography)

If cancer is found from these tests, program staff can help enroll eligible clients, into the Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program (MCTP), for full coverage of treatment services.

“When it comes to winning the fight against cancer, early detection is the best protection,” said Program Coordinator Carolyn Handville. “The Cancer Services Program of the North Country has had a profound effect on health of families and individuals in Oswego, Lewis, Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties. Clinical breast exams, mammograms, colorectal cancer screenings, and pap/pelvic exams are essential to good health. The goal of the Cancer Services Program is to ensure that every resident who is eligible in the counties we serve receives the cancer screenings they require.”

Administered by OCO, the Cancer Services Program of the North Country provides free cancer screenings to qualifying community members who are uninsured and between 40 and 64 years of age.  For more information on the Cancer Services Program Partnership of the North Country call 855-592-0830 or visit OCO’s website at www.oco.org and follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/oco.free.cancer.screenings.

Established in March 1966, OCO was designated as Oswego County’s Community Action Agency with the original intent of lifting people out of poverty.  For the past 60 years OCO has been the safety net for Oswego County. Each year, nearly 25,000 people are served through more than 50 programs including assistance for the homeless, educational services, safety for the abused, support for youth, crisis services, transportation for all health education services, meals and nutritional guidance for the elderly, disabled and youth, and independence and support for the disabled. Oswego County Opportunities, “60 Years of Action. A Lifetime of Impact.”