At just 13 years old, Arlene Ricardo experienced a loss that would shape her entire future: her mother died from breast cancer at the age of 47. While the loss was devastating, it had a profound impact on Ricardo’s life, inspiring her to become a breast surgeon.
“I feel deeply honored to do what I do. It is incredibly rewarding to know that you’re saving lives,” said Arlene Ricardo, MD, a breast surgeon affiliated with Memorial Hermann.
Dr. Ricardo has been transforming lives as a breast surgeon at Memorial Hermann for almost 25 years. Throughout her tenure, she has witnessed remarkable advancements in technology and treatment. However, one thing that has remained constant is the doctors and nurses’ unwavering commitment to provide high-quality care. “Their passion and commitment to our patients is truly remarkable,” said Dr. Ricardo.
As part of Memorial Hermann’s commitment to excellence, the oncology team’s affiliated doctors, nurses and leadership continuously assess and evaluate the system’s processes, focusing on what’s working well while identifying opportunities for growth and improvement. One primary focus is ensuring that following a breast cancer biopsy, surgical intervention takes place within 60 days for patients in cancer stages I, II or III.
“We know that ensuring timely surgical intervention within 60 days of a patient’s biopsy improves patient outcomes both mentally and physically. Timely care reduces stress, promotes quicker recovery and has the potential to increase the effectiveness of treatments,” said Dr. Ricardo.
The effort to achieve timely surgical intervention begins with the Memorial Hermann oncology nurse navigators; Memorial Hermann’s Commitment to Breast Cancer Care: Ensuring Timely Treatment a dedicated group of nurses certified in oncology that prioritize streamlining patient care. As part of the 60-day initiative, the nurse navigators track the progress of each patient’s treatment, including appointments for imaging, surgical consultations and visits with surgeons and other specialists. By meticulously monitoring these timelines, the nurse navigators strive to see that patients receive expedited care while also identifying opportunities for continual improvement.
“This quality measure directly improves patient outcomes and survival. The team works diligently to help each patient has access to the safe, quality and timely care that they deserve,” said Mandy Owens, RN, manager of clinical oncology nurse navigation for Memorial Hermann System Services.
In addition to expediting appointments, the oncology nurse navigators have streamlined communication efforts. Constant communication between oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, nurse navigators and other specialists helps patients receive customized, timely care.
Furthermore, nurse navigators assist in improving access to care while also providing educational opportunities and support throughout the entire cancer journey. This comprehensive approach enhances the overall patient experience and promotes better outcomes.
“We do what we do because we want women to survive, to live long, healthy lives and to see their grandchildren grow up. There’s a deep emotional attachment to our patients and we are wholly committed to their well-being,” said Dr. Ricardo.
Although times have changed over the past 25 years, the mission remains the same and Dr. Ricardo is dedicated to achieving that mission every day.
“My mother’s passing set me on this path. If her struggle could inspire me to save even one life, then there was a purpose to it. We’ve made tremendous strides over the past 40 to 50 years, and I am committed to ensuring that our patients receive high-quality care,” said Dr. Ricardo.