Methodist Dallas Named Center of Excellence for Pancreatic Care

DALLAS — Methodist Dallas Medical Center has been recognized by the National Pancreas Foundation as an approved Center of Excellence, the only hospital in Dallas-Fort Worth to be distinguished for its treatment of both pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.

The newest distinction is the product of a rigorous audit to determine that Methodist Dallas emphasizes a multidisciplinary treatment of pancreatitis, treating the “whole patient” with a focus on the best possible outcomes and an improved quality of life.

“Accreditation from the National Pancreas Foundation is an important symbol of Methodist Dallas Medical Center’s commitment to high-quality, multidisciplinary pancreas care,” said Alejandro Mejia, MD, executive director of organ transplantation at Methodist Dallas.

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.

“For many years, Methodist Dallas has thoroughly demonstrated a high level of care for patients with pancreas disease," said Paul Tarnasky, MD, executive medical director of the Methodist Digestive Institute. "We look forward to continuing to develop our Pancreas Center of Excellence and providing this superior level of care to patients in North Texas and beyond.”

David Bakelman, CEO of the National Pancreas Foundation, said he's looking forward to working with the newest Center of Excellence in Dallas.

“We are thrilled to expand our NPF Centers of Excellence Program to better serve the needs of patients suffering from pancreas disease,” Bakelman said.