Advancing Skin Cancer Care With a Specialized Melanoma Clinic

For 50 years, MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center has been committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care for the Orange County, California community. Recognized for its exceptional medical expertise, the hospital has been entrusted with patient care through life’s pivotal moments—from welcoming newborns to performing complex surgeries and providing leadingedge oncology treatments. As a center of excellence, Saddleback specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer, along with its expertise in heart disease, stroke, pulmonary disease, emergency medicine, neurosurgery, and robotic-assisted procedures.

As part of this mission, Tanya Evans, MD, board-certified dermatologist, has led the development of Saddleback Medical Center’s new Skin Cancer Program and specialized Melanoma Clinic. With early detection, accessibility, and multidisciplinary collaboration at its core, the program is designed to meet the growing demand for expert skin cancer care in Southern California.

“Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer, and early detection is crucial to improving treatment outcomes,” Dr. Evans explained. “By integrating dermatology into a cancer program, we ensure that patients benefit from early screenings and a collaborative approach to treatment tailored to their individual needs.”

A Program Rooted in Prevention and Collaboration

Dr. Evans’ vision is clear: integration and accessibility. By combining dermatology, oncology, and surgical expertise, the program establishes a multidisciplinary approach that not only treats skin cancer but also focuses on preventive education for the community.

Southern California’s outdoor lifestyle and strong sun exposure contribute to elevated skin cancer rates, particularly among seniors.

“Many older adults and patients didn’t have the education we have now regarding sun safety, which led to long-term sun damage,” Dr. Evans said. “Raising awareness about regular skin checks and protective measures is essential to reducing risk and improving public health in this region.”

The Melanoma Clinic and Skin Cancer Program at Saddleback Medical Center works in partnership with local physicians to expand community outreach and provide accessible care. Dr. Evans and her team have launched screening events at Laguna Woods Village and a game at Angels Stadium, ensuring early detection services reach those most at risk.

A Unique Model for Patient Referral and Comprehensive Treatment

Unlike traditional clinics, Dr. Evans’ practice operates through physician referrals and word of mouth. “Our structure allows us to collaborate with oncologists, surgeons, pathologists, and other specialists to develop a comprehensive plan tailored to each patient,” Dr. Evans explained. This collaborative structure ensures patients receive timely, specialized care without delays in referrals.

For patients requiring infusion therapy, Saddleback Medical Center’s Infusion Center offers comprehensive patient support, staffed by experienced nurses and pharmacists who manage treatment plans. The infusion clinic houses 8 chairs and accommodates 26 to 28 patients daily, ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care.

Advanced Care for Patients with All Stages of Melanoma

At Saddleback Medical Center, the multidisciplinary melanoma care team collaborates to detect, treat, and provide follow-up care for patients across all stages of melanoma. Specialized providers— including a board-certified dermatologist, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and general surgeons—develop individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Early detection is crucial, as melanoma can metastasize to lymph nodes and organs if left untreated. Saddleback’s Melanoma Clinic emphasizes prevention, offering education on UV exposure, sun safety, and regular skin checks. Patients diagnosed with melanoma of 1mm or deeper undergo sentinel lymph node biopsies to determine whether the cancer has spread.

“Most melanomas are treated by surgical excision, but if a patient is at high risk for recurrence or metastasis, our melanoma care team utilizes the latest advancements in treatment, including radiation therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy,” Dr. Evans said.

Innovation in Cancer Care and Research

Dr. Evans is committed to advancing medical innovation in skin cancer treatment. Her private clinic offers clinical trials for various skin diseases, including skin cancer, supported by 2 trial coordinators managing the studies.

“At Saddleback Medical Center, we have over 300 clinical trials covering different disease types, and our extensive research program includes a clinical operations team, regulatory affairs specialists, and pharmacy experts,” Dr. Evans shared.

Beyond research, Saddleback Medical Center’s commitment to innovation extends to other cancer specialties. Its newly launched prostate cancer initiative has reduced screening wait times by 2 weeks, ensuring earlier detection and intervention. Additionally, the expansion of the cardiology team enhances heart health services, further reinforcing Saddleback Medical Center’s dedication to cutting-edge medical care.

Supportive Services for Holistic Cancer Care

Saddleback Medical Center recognizes that comprehensive cancer care extends beyond medical treatment, offering a wide range of supportive services to enhance patient well-being. Patient navigation and education programs connect individuals with trained professionals who guide them through treatment options and available resources. Nutritional counseling provides personalized dietary plans, crafted by certified specialists to support healing and overall health.

For patients seeking physical and emotional renewal, the Renewal Boutique offers customized products and services tailored to individuals throughout treatment and recovery. Spiritual counseling is available to patients of all faiths and denominations, providing comfort and strength during their medical journey. Additionally, oncology social workers facilitate support groups and resource referrals, fostering emotional resilience and connection within the community.

“Saddleback Medical Center doesn’t just focus on medical treatment—we provide emotional and supportive care services tailored to each patient’s needs,” Dr. Evans explained. “From nutritional counseling to oncology social work and spiritual support, we ensure that patients feel guided and supported throughout their journey.”

Most of these services are free and accessible through self-referral, reinforcing Saddleback Medical Center’s patient-first philosophy.

Looking Ahead: A Healthier Community Through Collaboration

Dr. Evans and her team remain dedicated to enhancing skin cancer awareness, early detection, and multidisciplinary treatment. “The goal of this program is not just to provide specialized care, but to make sure patients have access to education, preventive screenings, and innovative therapies,” Dr. Evans emphasized.

By prioritizing education, research, and accessibility, the Skin Cancer Program and Melanoma Clinic at Saddleback Medical Center sets the standard for integrated, patient-centered oncology care.

As health care providers nationwide strive to improve cancer care accessibility, programs like Dr. Evans’ demonstrate how multidisciplinary collaboration and community engagement can elevate skin cancer prevention and treatment. With innovation and dedication, Saddleback Medical Center continues to lead the way in oncology care—one patient at a time.

Xinyang Zhou, PhD, is a freelance medical writer. Rachel Morrison Brown, MPH, MS is clinical content coordinator at the Association of Cancer Centers in Rockville, Maryland.