Advances in chemotherapy and immunotherapy

When you choose cancer centers and radiation oncology clinics at Ascension sites of care, you get a care team that is part of a national network. Our experienced radiation oncologists share best practices and the latest in cancer treatment and research – bringing the best of cancer care to you. Every appointment with your radiation oncologist starts with a compassionate conversation. Your doctor answers your questions and gets to know you. So, you get a personalized cancer care plan. And with a plan, comes hope. We will help you navigate your care and will be by your side every step of the way, connecting the dots. Our goal is to help you get back to home, family, life and self sooner. 

Cancer medication treatment options at Ascension sites of care

Before you start your medical oncology treatment program, your oncologist and medical oncology care team will meet with you and your caregivers to answer all your questions – big and small. By getting to know you and working together, you get a care plan that’s customized to your needs. And with a plan, comes hope. Our goal is to help you recover faster so you can get back to home, family, life and self.
 
Medical oncology doctors are board-certified hematologists who diagnose and treat blood cancers (leukemia, myeloma and lymphoma) and other cancers. Your medical oncologist has advanced training in leading-edge medication therapies designed to shrink tumors, eliminate cancer cells and help stop cancer spread. Treatments may include:

• Chemotherapy – Also, called “chemo,” this is the use of medicine to help destroy cancer cells. Before you start chemotherapy, your doctor, nurse, dietitian and pharmacist will meet with you to discuss what to expect and how we work together to help you manage possible side effects.
• Immunotherapy – Our doctors are highly trained in how to use anti-cancer medication to help strengthen your immune system to target cancer cells.
• Targeted medication therapies – Cancer specialists at Ascension sites of care use specific monoclonal antibodies and other targeted medication therapies to help control how cancer cells divide and spread. 

Every time you arrive for chemotherapy, your doctor verifies the specific dose and type of chemo-medications based on your current health and care plan. Our experienced pharmacists prepare an exact dose for each medication, and highly trained oncology nurses deliver your treatment. Your compassionate care team is by your side throughout your treatment sessions. 

• Cancer treatments can be delivered in different forms:
• Cancer therapy injections
• Same-day intravenous (IV) chemotherapy (also called infusion therapy)
• Multi-day continuous infusion with elastomeric pump and PICC line
• Oral medication

Medical oncology treatments for many types of cancer

Across our national network, we deliver oncology treatment options delivered by highly trained specialists for many types of cancer, including:

• Brain cancer
• Breast cancer
• Blood cancers and blood disorders
• Gastrointestinal (GI) and colon cancer
• Gynecologic cancer
• Head and neck cancer 
• Chest and Lung cancer
• Prostate cancer and urologic cancers
• Skin cancer

 If you want to learn more about other possible options, talk to your doctor. You may want to ask whether cancer clinical trials are the right option for your care. 

Benefits of medical oncology treatment at Ascension sites of care

At Ascension sites of care, you’ll find a medical oncology care team that focuses on the whole you – your physical and emotional health. When you come in for your appointments, know that we’re maintaining strict precautions to keep you safe in our care. Your care team helps schedule your appointments. Your care plan may include several sessions over a period of weeks. And we’re here to help make your experience as comfortable as possible. Talk with your care team if you need help finding transportation.
 
Cancer centers and clinics at Ascension sites of care provide many types of services to support your care plan and recovery after having radiation, chemotherapy, surgery or other targeted therapies, including nutrition counseling, medication management, genetic screening, testing and counseling, supportive palliative care, social services and spiritual care.  Find a location near you.

Get a second opinion on your cancer diagnosis or care plan

Get the confidence and peace of mind that your doctor and care plan are right for you. It's easy to get a second opinion at Ascension sites of care. We can review your medical records and healthcare history to answer your questions and discuss options. Talk with one of our doctors about a personalized care plan. 

When you are facing a new diagnosis or are deciding on a medical oncology treatment plan, there’s a lot to think about. Our cancer specialists can provide a second opinion, based on our experience and as part of an integrated national network of care.

Before your appointment, check with your insurance company to find out if a second opinion is covered. We can request your medical records on your behalf, so that they can be shared with your care team before your arrival.

Financial assistance and support is available

We can connect you with resources and programs that may be able to help you and your family with options for financial assistance. Our financial counseling team is here to listen to your concerns and work with you to help find options that meet your needs.