Led by Course Directors Cecilia Boardman, MD and Lois Ramondetta, MD , this one-day course will feature five dynamic workshops that will provide allied health professionals, social workers and physicians with the information and skills needed to provide high quality, specialist-level palliative care to patients and their families.

Ellen Smith, MD: Board certified in both Gynecologic Oncology and in Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Dr. Smith has more than 24 years of experience in the management and treatment of women’s cancers. She currently serves on staff at Texas Oncology in Austin, Texas and will speak on the subject of Palliative Care and Survival during this year’s workshop.

Eduardo Bruera, MD, FAAHPM: Internationally known for his expertise in palliative care, Dr. Bruera is currently the Chair for the Department of Palliative Care and Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. His main clinical interest is the care of the physical and psychosocial distress of patients with advanced cancer and the support of their families. SGO’s 2010 Annual Meeting American Cancer Society Lecturer, Dr. Burera will speak about pain management during the one-day conference.

Thomas Smith, MD, FACP: A Professor of Oncology at the JHMI The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Dr. Smith specializes in Pain and Symptom Management within Palliative and Hospice Care. He believes that “palliative care is part of caring for people. It is no less important than ensuring access to good care and giving patients a shot at cure.” He will inform attendees on 10 Ways to Bend the Oncology Cost Curve – Downward.

Betty Ferrell, PhD, MA, FAAN, FPCN: With over 33 years in oncology nursing, Dr. Ferrell has focused her clinical expertise and research in pain management, quality of life and palliative care. She is currently a Professor and Research Scientist at City of Hope in Los Angeles, California. During the conference, she will discuss Emerging Issues in Palliative Care and Spirituality as an Essential element of Quality of Life and Quality of Care.

Carina DeCroes, BSN, MS, OCN, RN: Ms. DeCroes is an advanced nurse practitioner with Northwestern Medical Faculty Foundation in Chicago, Illinois, She will serve as a panelist for attendees interested in bringing case presentations for audience review and suggested treatment planning.   

Mary Jo Graden, LCSW: A part of Northwestern University’s Supportive Oncology Team, Ms. Graden is a certified social worker who assists patients and their families in coping with the practical and financial impact of cancer. During the conference, she will cover the topic of Balancing Hope & Recurrence.