St. Francis Physician Receives National Award

A national organization has recognized James J. Hamilton Jr., MD, FACS, a St. Francis physician, for his work in cancer care in 2008 by awarding him the State Chair Outstanding Performance Award in October, becoming just one of three physicians to receive the honor nationwide.

The Commission on Cancer, an affiliate of the American College of Surgeons, gives the honor, which recognizes individuals who provide extensive leadership and support to their physician volunteers and cancer programs in the state. They are collaborators, innovators, and experts working with cancer programs, professionals and state coalitions to improve the quality of cancer care.

The award is bestowed on individuals who exhibit excellence in the following areas:
Consistent and innovative communication methods used for maintaining relationships with the cancer liaison physicians
Support and initiation of Commission on Cancer activities at the state and regional Level
Collaboration with American College of Surgeons Chapter, American Cancer Society and Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalitions

Established by the American College of Surgeons in 1922, the Commission on Cancer is a national consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education and the monitoring of comprehensive quality care. Its members include 96 individuals who are either surgeons representing the American College of Surgeons or representatives from 46 national, professional organizations or Commission member organizations. These individuals direct the activities of the Commission through committee work.

Hamilton is chairman of the St. Francis Comprehensive Cancer Committee. He is board certified in general surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is employed at Tallgrass General, Vascular, Thoracic and Bariatric Surgery. He received his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and completed his surgical residency at Harvard Medical School.