Research & Technology

Spectrum Health Foundation Names New Betz Research Chair

Brian Lane, MD, PhD, Spectrum Health Medical Group, has been selected to succeed Timothy O’Rourke, MD, as the new Betz Family Endowed Chair in Cancer Research at Spectrum Health.

The position was established to help support Spectrum Health physician scientists who are combining clinical expertise and research to advance cancer treatment and increase opportunities for clinical trials in West Michigan.

“This is a great opportunity to do cancer research while encouraging others to do the same. I am very honored to have been selected for this important role,” said Dr. Lane. “There is so much vital research currently underway in the battle to conquer cancer. It is very important that our patients and experts are involved in finding answers.”

Karl and Patricia Betz and Ken and Judy Betz established the chair through the Spectrum Health Foundation in 2004. Dr. O’Rourke was named the inaugural Betz Family Endowed Chair that year.

“The Betz family understood the challenges that arise with a cancer diagnosis, having experienced cancer within their family as well as with friends. They wanted to make a significant contribution to help advance cancer research that would treat and possibly eradicate the disease,” said Vicki Weaver, president, Spectrum Health Foundation. “We thank Dr. O’Rourke for his many contributions as the first Betz Family Endowed Chair and for his collaborative approach in establishing our research efforts. We look forward to Dr. Lane continuing this important research on behalf of Spectrum Health and the Betz family.”

Dr. Lane is the director of the Minimally Invasive Surgery Program at Spectrum Health. He specializes in urologic oncology surgery including the most up-to-date surgical techniques. He also specializes in the use of robotics, notably the da Vinci® Surgical System. Dr. Lane conducts extensive research on kidney and prostate cancer. He has authored more than 90 professional journal publications and co-authored the 2007 book, “100 Questions and Answers about Kidney Cancer.”

Spectrum Health is a not-for-profit health system, based in West Michigan, offering a full continuum of care through the Spectrum Health Hospital Group, which is comprised of 10 hospitals including Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital; 130 ambulatory and service sites; 975 advanced practice providers and employed physicians including members of the Spectrum Health Medical Group and West Michigan Heart physician groups; and Priority Health, a health plan. Spectrum Health is West Michigan’s largest employer with 19,200 employees. The organization provided $204 million in community benefit during its 2012 fiscal year.