Methodist Richardson named a Center of Excellence for pancreatic cancer care

RICHARDSON — Methodist Richardson Medical Center has been nationally recognized as a Center of Excellence for pancreatic cancer care.

The designation was awarded by The National Pancreas Foundation after a rigorous audit review determined that Methodist Richardson emphasizes a multidisciplinary treatment of pancreatic cancer, treating the “whole patient” with a focus on the best possible outcomes and an improved quality of life.

"This recognition is a testament to our multidisciplinary approach to treat every pancreatic cancer case as unique," said D. Rohan Jeyarajah, MD, FACS, director of gastrointestinal services at Methodist Richardson. "Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer, but our team is committed to provide innovative and compassionate care."

An approved NPF Center meets criteria developed by a task force made up of subject matter experts and patient advocates. That includes having the required expert physician specialties such as gastroenterologists, pancreas surgeons, and interventional radiologists, along with more patient-focused programs such as a pain management service and psychosocial support.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the high-quality hepatobiliary program we have built here,” Methodist Richardson President Ken Hutchenrider said. “This award is a true achievement of our dedicated team to provide exceptional patient care to our communities and beyond.”

Methodist Richardson is the second hospital within Methodist Health System to earn this designation. In 2023, Methodist Dallas became the first hospital in North Texas to be recognized for its treatment of both pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis, a distinction it still holds today.

Jenny Pagel-Guile, executive director of The National Pancreas Foundation, said she's looking forward to working with the newest Center of Excellence in Richardson.

“We are thrilled to expand our NPF Centers of Excellence Program to better serve the needs of patients suffering from pancreas disease,” Pagel-Guile said. “The NPF Centers of Excellence Program is one of the pillars of NPF, and we are looking forward to working with our current and new Centers.”