Personalized Cancer Treatment

Diagnosing Cancer

When a particular sign or symptom may be related to cancer, the first step towards getting better is an accurate diagnosis. Although there are a number of tests and procedures that we use, diagnostic imaging is vital in the detection and diagnosis of cancer. In many cases, one or a combination of multiple medical imaging procedures can show the presence, size, shape and location of tumors or abnormalities in the body. In some cases, these tests can help to determine whether the problem is cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign).

A final diagnosis of cancer cannot usually be made without a biopsy, which is an examination of cells or living tissue from an area suspected to be cancerous. A biopsy is the most definitive way to test for the presence of a malignant tumor and to determine what kind of cancer exists. Diagnostic imaging testing and a biopsy together are essential for developing an effective treatment plan.

The Infusion Center offers a comfortable and convenient alternative to receiving infusion services as an inpatient or in the emergency room. Patients receive their infusion in a comfortable recliner and may watch TV or bring handheld DVD players, listen to music, read or relax.

Your time is valuable, so please plan to arrive on time for your treatments. We want you to relax and visit with your nurse to let them know how you are doing prior to your treatment. Rest assured, we are using this time to check and double check to ensure you are receiving the best care possible. Due to the high cost of medications and serious nature of this type of care, we will not prepare your treatment until you have arrived at the center and have reviewed information with your nurse.

Infusion services are provided by a staff of experienced registered nurses who specialize in intravenous therapy. Infusion services offered include:

Chemotherapy
Blood product transfusions
Intravenous antibiotics
Central line catheter care
Hydration therapy
Injection services
Remicade therapy
Iron infusions

We also offer assessments, evaluations and educational materials, and we work with your primary physician to coordinate your care.

Support and resources

We offer a resource library for cancer patients, family and friends with lay-oriented books and informative brochures on a wide collection of cancer-related topics and symptom management support. These booklets and brochures are provided by the American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. The library is located on the fourth floor in the Outpatient Infusion Center and is available free to those in need of information. Nursing staff is available to assist those who visit this library.

Cancer treatments vary depending on the type of cancer and the extent of its development. For most forms of cancer, there are three major areas of treatment: surgery, radiation and medical oncology (chemotherapy and/or hormone therapies). These treatments are used in combination with each other in a truly comprehensive program that includes surgical intervention, infusion services, radiation therapy, support services and rehabilitation.