HOPE Clinic

Clinica de Hematologia/Oncologia: Puente de Esperanza (HOPE Clinic)

Clear communication between families and care providers leads to much better health results for children. That’s why Children’s Mercy offers the HOPE Clinic (Clinica de Hematologia/Oncologia: Puente de Esperanza) for kids with cancer from Spanish-speaking families.

The HOPE Clinic provides bilingual clinical services, written materials and medication instructions in Spanish, and a strong network of support for your family as you navigate your child’s cancer treatment. Everyone on the staff is ready to help your family understand your child’s condition, treatment options, and home care instructions between visits.

Your oncology team

Your oncology team is led by Terrie Flatt, DO, MA, a pediatric hematologist/oncologist who is fluent and medically trained in Spanish. 

Your team will guide you through the process of diagnosis and work with you to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your child’s needs. Dr. Flatt and the entire HOPE Clinic team believe it's critical to communicate with families in their first language to ensure everyone understands the plan.

Oncologist – Dr. Terrie Flatt 
Dr. Flatt is recognized for having one of the highest patient satisfaction ratings among Children's Mercy physicians. He cares deeply for the families he works with, and will make sure that language is never a barrier to getting your child the very best care.

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse 
Your family will work with an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse who will be your go-to person when your family has questions or needs help along the way during your treatment and follow-up. They will help you understand your child's diagnosis and treatment plan and how it might affect your family.

Social worker – Sara Donnelly 
Sara will help your family find resources in your community to assist you on your journey. She can guide you as you navigate the health care system, apply for financial assistance, or travel between your home and the hospital for treatments.

Bilingual Patient Navigator – Maria del Pilar Coromina 
Maria is an experienced medical interpreter who acts as a liaison between your family and your health care team. During a stressful time, she will be there to advise you and even walk you from one place to the next within the hospital to make sure you get where you need to go.

Registered Nurse – Julie Fournier 
Julie will be by your side to help with your child's care and provide comfort and support at every visit.