Steven S. Larmon, MD

NNECOS has been a very important organization in my life and practice. Before anything else, I really want to say thank you to all who have made this organization a multi-generation source of help and encouragement in the practice of Oncology.

When I first came to NH to practice, I had six years of experience in the “real world “in a practice in the Boston area. I knew a little about the business and had an idea of how a day-to-day clinic would work. I was asked to set up a new “Cancer Center “in Keene. In a way there it was "learn as you go".

Denis Hammond and the group that came together from the three states were welcoming, helpful, and practical. The organization had a wealth of knowledge that I needed and was always there for support. It was a source of confidence as well. In a world where Academics sometimes leaves behind the community practitioner, I never felt diminished by the Academics or the other Community Oncologists in the organization. Indeed, over time a real camaraderie developed which I valued and still value.

Since I’ve left the practice of oncology the pace of change in the profession has been reinforced to me. It was always a challenge to keep up. I feel it would be impossible for me to jump back in even after this short time. It was changing that rapidly while I was in practice too, and the meetings and connections of NNECOS were a significant source in helping me to stay abreast of changes. This included the connections with the other practitioners, but also with our pharmaceutical partners. I rarely felt I was being pressured in a direction other than with an opportunity to learn more.

Think of how the tools of our profession have changed from having little more than 5FU to multi drug regimens, and immunotherapy. There were so many little steps that built the practice over the more than 30 years. NNECOS was there to help as our Cancer Center rose to the challenge of making those changes.

One of the best experiences the organization provided was the opportunity to optimize the QOPI program and improve many aspects of the quality of our organization. We worked hard at the measures and were proud of the results. NNECOS gave us an opportunity to show that off a little.

I want to thank so many important people for including me in the organization and its history, particularly Denis Hammond, Steve Grunberg, Chris Nunnink. Thanks especially to Elaine Towle and Lori Aubrey for their leadership. Though I want to, there are too many others to list.

Thank you, thank you all for letting me be part of this wonderful organization and its history.

Steven S. Larmon, MD.