NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Oncology has signed a Letter of Intent to merge with Chattanooga Oncology & Hematology Associates (COHA). The merger will be finalized during the next few weeks, and will create one of the largest networks of physician-owned oncology practices in the nation.
Effective January 1, 2013, COHA will change its name to Tennessee Oncology while staff and physicians at COHA’s four locations will remain the same. Tennessee Oncology is currently the largest oncology practice in the state, and through this merger, will expand its network outside of middle Tennessee with four new locations, 13 physicians, and nearly 100 additional employees in Chattanooga and Northwest Georgia.
COHA initiated discussions with us several months ago, and we believe this merger is a win-win for both parties as our two practices share very similar philosophies, especially when it comes to making sure patients always come first,” said Tennessee Oncology CEO Jeff Patton, M.D. “We are both committed to advancing the science of oncology through clinical trial participation and to making sure patients have access to the same clinical trials available through academic institutions in their own communities close to their homes.”
Tennessee Oncology has a longstanding research alliance with COHA through a strategic partnership with the Sarah Cannon Research Institute, and will now offer expanded access to clinical trials and specialized services to all COHA patients. This includes access to Tennessee Oncology’s Park Pharmacy, a full-service pharmacy dedicated to oncology and hematology medications not commonly stocked in community retail pharmacies.
“We are excited about this merger and what it means for the future of our practice,” said Edward Arrowsmith, M.D, President of COHA. “It is the best way for us to navigate the changing healthcare environment and remain an independent community oncology practice, allowing us to continue providing the best possible care and offer the most innovative cancer treatments and services.”
The combined Tennessee Oncology and COHA programs will offer a comprehensive range of cancer care services including specialized oncology nursing care, laboratory services, outpatient chemotherapy, PET/CT services, and patient education and support services.
“Ultimately, this merger benefits cancer patients across Tennessee,” said Dr. Patton. “Our combined services will offer unsurpassed cancer care, cutting-edge treatments and access to more clinical trials than any other program in the state.”
For more information about Tennessee Oncology visit tnoncology.com or call 1-877-836-6662.
About Tennessee Oncology
Tennessee Oncology, PLLC is one of the nation’s leading teams of cancer care specialists, nationally recognized for improving patient outcomes through clinical trial research and innovative treatments. Its comprehensive range of cancer care services include specialized oncology nursing care, laboratory services, outpatient chemotherapy, PET/CT services and patient education and support services. Founded in 1976, Tennessee Oncology is one of the largest physician-owned practices in the country, employing more than 60 physicians in 30 locations throughout Middle Tennessee. Visit tnoncology.com for more information.
About Chattanooga Oncology & Hematology Associates
COHA is a practice of highly-trained physicians specializing in the treatment of cancer and blood diseases, offering state-of-the-art technology and treatments, combined with compassionate holistic care. COHA has four locations in the Chattanooga area with the primary office located in the Memorial Plaza and on the Memorial Hospital campus and satellite offices located at North Park, Parkridge and North Georgia.