Saint Luke's Cancer Institute Appoints New Medical Director

Kansas City-Based SLCI Focuses On Research And Leadership When Selecting New Director Timothy J. Pluard, M.D.

KANSAS CITY, Mo., July 16, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Saint Luke's Cancer Institute (SLCI) announced today Timothy J. Pluard, M.D., has been appointed the new medical director for the acclaimed cancer institute. Pluard currently serves as associate professor of medicine at Washington University and clinical director, section of breast oncology at Siteman Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, at Washington University/Barnes Jewish Hospital in Saint Louis, MO. He will oversee the day–to-day operations at SLCI.

"We are very excited to have someone of Dr. Pluard's stature and reputation serve as the new medical director for Saint Luke's Cancer Institute," said Julie Quirin, CEO of Saint Luke's Hospital. "He not only brings with him a wealth of knowledge, strong leadership, and vision, but also a passion for research and clinical excellence."

Dr. Pluard was recruited by Siteman Cancer Center in 2005 to serve as medical director of their first satellite center in St. Peters, MO. Under his leadership, the center grew exponentially, seeing more than 600 new patients each year. In 2010, Dr. Pluard was appointed clinical director of breast oncology. He also served as the institutional Principal Investigator (PI) for the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) as well as all breast industry research trials. Dr. Pluard led numerous clinical trials at Siteman Cancer Center over the past eight years, and his active role in research resulted in him being recognized twice by NCI as one of the nation's top accruers in cooperative group trials.

In his new role as SLCI medical director, Dr. Pluard will work to maximize growth on a regional and national level and aggressively pursue research opportunities and clinical trials.

"Dr. Pluard's extensive research experience will bring tremendous benefit to Saint Luke's Cancer Institute and allow us to continue to participate in, and bring to our patients, the very latest options in cancer treatment and clinical trials," said Karin McCrary, vice president of Saint Luke's Cancer Institute.

"Having lived in Missouri the majority of my life I have been well aware of the excellent reputation of Saint Luke's Cancer Institute and Saint Luke's Health System," said Dr. Pluard. "It is a tremendous opportunity to join and serve this organization in such a significant role."

Dr. Pluard is board certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. He graduated from Washington University and received his fellowship training from Harvard Medical School at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, Mass.

Dr. Pluard is expected to assume his new role at SLCI on August 5, 2013.

Saint Luke's Cancer Institute is a member of Saint Luke's Health System, which consists of 10 area hospitals and several primary and specialty care practices, and provides a range of inpatient, outpatient, and home care services. Founded as a faith-based, not-for-profit organization, our mission includes a commitment to the highest levels of excellence in health care and the advancement of medical research and education. The health system is an aligned organization in which the physicians and hospitals assume responsibility for enhancing the physical, mental, and spiritual health of people in the metropolitan Kansas City area and the surrounding region.

SOURCE Saint Luke's Health System