West Central PA News

David Swanson's health journey underscores the importance of regular screenings and advanced medical care. For years, Swanson diligently adhered to his health screening schedule, initially provided by his employer and later on his own initiative. In 2021, a routine multiphasic screening revealed elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, prompting his primary care provider to refer him to Dr. John Banerji at Penn Highlands Urology.

Dr. Banerji is known for offering advanced treatment options for urinary tract disorders and male reproductive system issues. Upon receiving Swanson's test results, Dr. Banerji promptly conducted a biopsy which confirmed prostate cancer. "I’ll never forget when he told me that it was cancer," Swanson recalled. "He said ‘for you, your age, your shape, it’s just a bump in the road.’"

Swanson became the first patient at Penn Highlands DuBois to undergo prostate surgery with the assistance of the da Vinci Xi robot under Dr. Banerji's expertise. The robotic system is renowned for enhancing surgical precision and control.

Dr. Banerji expressed confidence in their health system through this pioneering procedure: “It speaks volumes about his confidence in our health system to be the first person having prostate surgery with the da Vinci robot at our hospital.”

Swanson attributes his swift recovery to the care he received from Dr. Banerji and Penn Highlands Healthcare: “The care has put me physically and mentally at a higher level,” he stated.

Dr. Banerji joined Penn Highlands DuBois in 2019 and praised its capabilities despite being located in a small community: “I listen very closely because I know that people who come to me for care are apprehensive and anxious about their treatment,” he explained.

Penn Highlands Healthcare offers expert urologic care across Northwestern, Central, and Southwestern Pennsylvania.