How Dr. Peter Brett Helps Fight Cancer in Saipan
In the remote and underserved Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), a dedicated oncologist by the name of Dr. Peter Brett has been making a remarkable difference. Having relocated to the tropical island of Saipan in 2019, Dr. Brett took on the enormous task of establishing a comprehensive cancer center from scratch. Today, the Northern Marianas Oncology Center stands as a beacon of hope, providing vital care and support to the CNMI population. Let’s delve into the extraordinary journey of Dr. Peter Brett and explore how his efforts are combating cancer in Saipan.
Building a Lifeline of Care
Imagine being diagnosed with cancer in a region where healthcare resources are scarce. Prior to Dr. Brett’s arrival, this was the reality for CNMI residents. Cancer patients were often forced to travel long distances to Guam, Hawaii, mainland US, or the Philippines for treatment, enduring not only physical challenges but also emotional isolation and financial strain. Determined to change this narrative, Dr. Peter Brett set out to establish the Northern Marianas Oncology Center, which officially opened its doors to the public in March 2020.
A Trailblazing Expert
Dr. Peter Brett is a highly accomplished board-certified oncologist with more than 25 years of experience. His medical journey began at Stanford University, where he pursued his undergraduate and medical degrees. Following his education, Dr. Brett completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Stanford University Hospital and a Fellowship in Hematology and Medical Oncology at the National Institutes of Health. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence, earning recognition as one of “The Bay Area’s Top Doctors” from 2016 to 2019.
A Tropical Paradigm Shift
Relocating to Saipan presented Dr. Brett with an opportunity to embrace a new chapter in his career and life. Drawn to the tropical climate, close-knit community, and unhurried pace of the CNMI, he embraced the challenge of building a practice from the ground up. The chance to provide essential healthcare services to an area previously devoid of such resources resonated deeply with Dr. Brett’s compassionate nature.
Transforming Cancer Care
The establishment of the Northern Marianas Oncology Center revolutionized cancer care in Saipan. With Dr. Brett at the helm, the center boasts a dedicated team of professionals, including nurse practitioners, Oncology RNs, physician assistants, pharmacists, patient navigators, and financial counselors. This comprehensive staff enables the center to offer a wide range of treatments, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted cancer treatment medicines, and simple surgeries. For complex surgeries or radiation therapy, the Oncology Center collaborates with off-island facilities while ensuring seamless coordination of care.
Empowering the Community through Education
Dr. Peter Brett understands that prevention and early detection play pivotal roles in the fight against cancer. Recognizing the high prevalence of late-stage cancer diagnoses in CNMI, he embarked on a robust community education program. By actively engaging with the local population, Dr. Brett imparts valuable knowledge on healthy lifestyle habits that aid in cancer prevention. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of early detection testing, aiming to reduce the number of late-stage cancer cases entering the Oncology Center.
Introducing CARES: Cancer Screening and Support
March 2022 marked a significant milestone in Saipan’s battle against cancer.
In March 2022, Dr. Peter Brett spearheaded the launch of the Cancer and Associated Risks Early Screening (CARES) program. This groundbreaking initiative provides free cancer testing to all residents of CNMI, ensuring that access to vital screenings is no longer a barrier. CARES offers a comprehensive range of screening services, including color genetic testing, mammograms, pap smears, colonoscopies, CT scans, and oral screenings. Moreover, the program goes beyond screenings by offering cancer prevention counseling, vaccines, screening advice, testing, and follow-up sessions. By empowering individuals with knowledge and resources, CARES aims to detect cancer at its earliest stages, significantly improving treatment outcomes and reducing future healthcare expenses.
The Benefits of Early Detection
Early detection of cancer is paramount to achieving positive outcomes. When cancer is identified at an early stage, treatment options are more effective, and overall prognosis improves dramatically. By detecting cancer early, patients have a greater chance of successful treatment and reducing the physical, emotional, and financial burdens associated with advanced-stage diagnoses.
About Dr. Peter Brett
Dr. Peter Brett’s unwavering commitment to fighting cancer in Saipan has brought hope and healing to the CNMI community. Through his tireless efforts and establishment of the Northern Marianas Oncology Center, residents now have access to comprehensive cancer care that was previously out of reach. Dr. Brett’s expertise, coupled with a compassionate approach to patient care, has transformed the landscape of cancer treatment and prevention in Saipan.
Dr. Brett empowers individuals to take control of their health and make informed choices by educating the community on the importance of prevention and early detection. The CARES program further reinforces his dedication, offering free cancer testing to all CNMI residents and paving the way for a future where cancer can be detected and treated at its earliest stages.
If you or someone you know needs cancer care or information on cancer prevention, contact the CHCC Oncology Center. Dr. Peter Brett and his team stand ready to provide support, guidance, and exceptional care on your journey toward better health.
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