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Thomas J. Rutherford, MD, PhD, Named Director of Cancer Services

Western Connecticut Health Network (WCHN) has named nationally known gynecologic oncologist Thomas J. Rutherford, MD, PhD, an expert in the area of ovarian cancer, as Network Physician Director of Cancer Services.

As Director, Dr. Rutherford will create a new model of cancer delivery in the dynamic "Accountable Care" environment that builds on the strengths and enhances the growth of the existing programs for the Praxair Cancer Center at Danbury Hospital, Diebold Family Cancer Center at New Milford Hospital and the Whittingham Cancer Center at Norwalk Hospital.

Dr. Rutherford will lead aggressive expansion of the WCHN cancer services. His philosophy encompasses total cancer care from prevention, high risk screening, research, genomics, a personal and individualized treatment plan, supportive care, survivorship, as well as the end of life care to support the unique medical and personal needs of every patient and their family.

"We are thrilled to have Dr. Rutherford join the WCHN family and lead our expert cancer team," said President and CEO, Dr. John Murphy. "Tom has an outstanding reputation for his clinical and research experience, and compassionate approach to caring for patients. His vision and leadership will enhance the great care provided by an excellent team in place today and guide us as we transform cancer care for our community."

Dr. Stuart E. Bussell Named Harold and Cora Spratt Endowed Chair in Colon and Rectal Surgery

Danbury Hospital has announced the appointment of Dr. Stuart E. Bussell as Harold and Cora Spratt Endowed Chair in Colon and Rectal Surgery. Dr. Bussell, a board-certified and fellowship-trained colon and rectal surgeon, specializes in laparoscopic surgery for conditions including colon and rectal cancer, diverticulitis, polyps and inflammatory bowel disease.

Dr. Bussell is also the director of Danbury Hospital’s Colon and Rectal Cancer Program, which is dedicated to the prevention, detection and treatment of primary and metastatic cancers of the colon and rectum.

“It is a tremendous honor to be named the Harold and Cora Spratt Endowed Chair,” said Dr. Bussell. “This endowment creates new opportunities for Danbury Hospital to enhance the level of care available in our community. It also provides us with additional resources to enhance post-graduate medical education and to expand innovative clinical research aimed at improving surgical outcomes and quality of life.

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