SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. — Barton Health is expanding access to cancer care in the Lake Tahoe region with the launch of Barton Cancer Care, providing patients with expert, coordinated cancer care closer to home.
According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 2.1 million people in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer in 2026. For people living in rural communities, access to cancer care can present additional challenges. The National Cancer Institute notes that these barriers can contribute to disparities in cancer outcomes in rural communities.
Barton Cancer Care is designed to help change that experience for patients in the Lake Tahoe region. The new service line brings together a medical oncologist, chemotherapy treatment, patient and financial navigation, with a dedicated oncology team supporting patients throughout their care journey. Patients receiving chemotherapy can now receive treatment at Barton in an infusion suite created with patient comfort, care, and support in mind. By providing more cancer care locally, Barton can help patients spend more time at home with the people they love.
Barton Cancer Care services will be led by William Schwartzman, MD, a medical oncologist who will work with patients throughout their cancer journey. Dr. Schwartzman will evaluate and diagnose patients, develop individualized treatment plans, and coordinate care with surgeons and other specialists, helping guide patients through each stage of treatment. Dr. Schwartzman brings advanced training in oncology and hematology from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
“Cancer treatment often requires frequent appointments, testing, and therapy. Minimizing the burden of travel allows patients to spend more time focusing on healing and less time on the road. That’s the type of cancer care we’re committed to providing here,” said Dr. Schwartzman.
As a Cleveland Clinic Connected member, Barton developed its cancer care program with guidance from Cleveland Clinic experts and its nationally recognized practices. Through that membership, Barton physicians and care teams have access to Cleveland Clinic’s guidance on clinical and operational best practices, quality, safety and patient experience — resources they draw on as they care for patients close to home.
“Our commitment to our community means continually listening to our patients, understanding their changing needs and evolving the care we provide,” said Dr. Clint Purvance, President & CEO of Barton Health. “Barton Cancer Care is a meaningful example of that commitment, bringing more specialized care close to home while drawing on the expertise and nationally recognized practices available through our Cleveland Clinic Connected membership.”
Barton Cancer Care is now accepting patients. For more information or to learn about available cancer care services, visit bartonhealth.org or call 530.600.1950.
