The opening of The Cancer Center at Glens Falls Hospital in 1993 marked more than just the opening of a new facility. The Center brought to the region a new multi-faceted and integrated approach to cancer care.

This integrated program enables patients and their families to receive comprehensive cancer treatment and a wide variety of education and support services in one convenient location, close to home.

"In the vast majority of the cancer cases diagnosed in our region, people are able to receive full treatment and follow-up care here in Glens Falls, rather than traveling out of town," says Robert W. Sponzo, M.D., medical director of The Cancer Center. "The Hospital recognized the importance of offering these services locally, and the generosity of our community has enabled us to build a highly respected program."

Four medical oncologists - Dr. Sponzo, Michael P. Castro, M.D., Vincent Koh,M.D., and Orlando J. Martelo, M.D. - practice at the Center, along with two radiation oncologists,Alex H. Frank, M.D., and Lance I. Hellman, M.D. Glens Falls area oncologists Mark M. Hoffman, M.D., and John R. Weinhold, M.D., also utilize some of the Center's services.

In addition to inpatient and outpatient care, The Cancer Center provides patients with imaging and laboratory services, the expertise of an oncology pharmacist, a wide variety of health, nutrition and psychological support services, and the opportunity to participate in nationally recognized research trials.

"Our commitment goes beyond just treating the cancer, to caring for the whole person and his or her family," says Pat Spencer-Cisek, MS, RN, CS, ACCN, an oncology clinical specialist and the Center's clinical director. "Together, all the components of the Cancer Center help our patients achieve better outcomes."