Why an Integrated Healthcare System Matters in Breast Surgery and Breast Cancer Care

When you're facing surgery—whether it's a routine procedure or part of cancer treatment—you want more than just a skilled surgeon. You want the peace of mind that comes from knowing every aspect of you care is connected, coordinated, and focused on your best outcome. That's where the power of an integrated healthcare system makes all the difference. 

At Archbold, our general surgery team works hand-in-hand with oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and nurse navigators to ensure patients receive seamless, comprehensive care. This approach is especially vital for breast cancer patients, where surgical decisions are closely tied to diagnosis, treatment planning, and long-term survivorship. 

The General Surgeon's Role in Breast Cancer Care

When many people think of breast cancer treatment, they think of chemotherapy or radiation. But breast surgery is often the first and most critical step in a patient's journey. 

"General surgeons are often the first specialists patients meet after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis," said Cianna Pender, MD, FACS, a general surgeon at Archbold in Thomasville, Georgia. "We walk patients through their surgical options, explain what their diagnosis means, and help them take the first steps toward recovery."

For patients, this means that their surgeon is not only performing the operations but also guiding them through decisions that impact the rest of their care. From lumpectomy to mastectomy, each decision is part of a bigger picture, and integration ensures that no piece of the puzzle is left out. 

Why Integration Improves Breast Surgery Outcomes

An integrated healthcare system connects every specialist involved in a patient's care. For breast cancer patients, this includes general surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and rehabilitation therapists. 

"When care is connected, patients don't feel like they're navigating the process alone," Dr. Pender explained. "Our team communicates regularly to make sure every decision is aligned, so patients get a personalized plan that fits their diagnosis, lifestyle, and long-term health goals."

Some of the biggest benefits of an integrated approach to breast cancer care include: 

• Fewer delays in care thanks to better communication between healthcare providers. 
• Streamlined testing and diagnostics, reducing unnecessary duplication. 
• Improved breast surgery outcomes through coordinated pre- and post-surgical support. 
• Stronger patient support, with nurse navigators and care teams guiding every step. 

National Recognition: Archbold's NAPBC Accreditation

Archbold's commitment to integrated, high-quality breast cancer care has earned the health system accreditation under the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).

This prestigious designation recognizes centers that provide the highest level of multidisciplinary, patient-focused breast cancer care. For patients, it means Archbold meets rigorous national standards for excellence in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. 

"Receiving NAPBC accreditation is a reflection of the teamwork happening across our entire health system," said Dr. Pender. "It shows patients that they don't have to leave South Georgia to receive nationally recognized breast cancer care."

Putting Patients at the Center of Surgery for Breast Cancer

At Archbold, general surgeons like Dr. Pender play an essential role in helping breast cancer patients move from diagnosis to treatment with confidence. But what makes the biggest difference in how seamlessly each part of care connects within our integrated system. 

"From the first consultation to survivorship, our patients know they're supported by an entire team—not just one provider," Dr. Pender shared. "That level of care is what helps patients feel hope and strength during one of the hardest times of their lives."

All of the general surgeons at Archbold South Georgia Surgical participate in a team-based approach to care. 

Top Breast Cancer Care in South Georgia

Facing surgery or a new breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming—but you don't have to go through it alone. At Archbold, our general surgery team works alongside a network of cancer specialists to provide compassionate, coordinated care every step of the way. 

For more information on breast cancer services, contact the Archbold Cancer Center at (229) 584-5400. For more information on breast surgery in South Georgia, call Archbold South Georgia Surgical at (229) 226-8881.