Oncology is the medical speciality that deals with cancer. It encompasses the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of malignant tumours affecting the organs of the lymphatic and circulatory systems.
Oncology Haut-Valais Hospital Centre
Organisation
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The department provides oncological and haematological care for the Upper Valais region; there are no private providers.
The organisation of outpatient oncological rehabilitation at the SZO is based on a coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach.
The Oncology Secretariat manages appointments with oncologists.
For many people affected, living with or after a cancer diagnosis presents a considerable psychological challenge and burden.
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Opening hours
Monday to Thursday 8 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 5 pm Friday 8 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 4 pm -
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Standard cancer treatments include surgery (removal of the tumour), radiotherapy (irradiation) and drug therapies (chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, and treatments designed to specifically inhibit processes linked to the growth of certain cancer cells). Diagnosis and treatment are planned and implemented on an interdisciplinary basis, i.e. in close collaboration with other specialist disciplines. The treatment plan is drawn up individually for each patient during weekly tumour board meetings. Specialists base their decisions on the latest national and international treatment guidelines.
Drug treatments are administered under the supervision of experienced specialist doctors (oncologists and haematologists) by specialist nursing staff, either as outpatients or during hospitalisation. Oncologists coordinate the treatment, check-ups and follow-up care for patients. Close collaboration with other disciplines (gynaecology, urology, surgery, palliative care, pain management, psycho-oncology) as well as with GPs, home care services (Spitex) and the Valais Cancer League (psychosocial service) ensures optimal and comprehensive care for cancer patients.
The oncologists at the Valais Hospital collaborate with the university hospitals in Bern, Lausanne and Geneva. As a member of the Swiss Society for Clinical Cancer Research (SAKK), it is possible to treat patients as part of new clinical trials.