The Cancer Center at Glens Falls Hospital is not just a building
It is the center of a comprehensive and integrated cancer
 treatment, education and support program.

Four medical oncologists practice at The Cancer Center. Medical oncologists use a variety of treatments, including chemotherapy (anti-cancer drugs) to destroy cancer cells. More than 50 people visit the Center for evaluations or medical oncology treatment each day.

Radiation oncology services at The Cancer Center are provided by two radiation oncologists. Radiation oncologists destroy cancer cells through the use of x-ray or electron beams, or by implanting radioactive sources into or near tumors. More than 45 people typically receive radiation therapy on a daily basis.

 
Ensuring the proper radiation placement and dosage is critical to the success of radiation therapy. The Cancer Center employs its own physicist, John Faherty (at right), who uses state-of-the-art computer imaging to plan our patients’ treatments.

Daily radiation treatments are administered by a team of five licensed radiation therapists. The therapists work closely with the radiation oncologists and physicist to ensure that treatments are delivered accurately.

The cancer research component of The Cancer Center enables local cancer patients to take part in nationally recognized clinical research trials. Among the trials now underway through the Center is the Study of Tamoxifen and Raloxifene for women at increased risk of breast cancer. We are now recruiting women to take part in this national study. Prospective participants are asked to call The Cancer Center at 745-5451, or click here for more information.

Our Oncology Education & Support team works closely with cancer patients and their families from diagnosis through the transition to treatment and recovery. Among the services offered is the Uniquely You Boutique and Salon, through which patients are provided free mastectomy fittings and specialized hair and skin care. Shown here are cosmetologist Terry Philby and patient Molly McMaster.

The Cancer Center includes a dedicated, on-site pharmacy for our patients’ convenience. Lead pharmacist Birger Steen specializes in cancer care. He has completed an oncology pharmacy residency at the University of Texas.

Recognizing that a cancer patient’s emotional well-being is critical to his or her physical health, The Cancer Center has integrated health psychology into its comprehensive array of health care services. Our health psychology program is coordinated by a licensed psychologist.

While many of today’s cancer treatments can be provided on an outpatient basis, inpatient services remain an important part of the treatment program. The Cancer Center’s inpatient oncology unit, completely renovated in 1997, can accommodate 22 cancer patients.

Proper nutrition is an essential element in the care of cancer patients. The Cancer Center staff works closely with Joan Butler, a clinical dietitian at the Hospital’s Nutrition Center, who specializes in cancer care.

The Cancer Center employs 33 registered nurses, 15 licensed practical nurses and two nurses aides. More than half of the RNs have earned a national certification in cancer care, including Nancy Imrie (left) and Kelle Castler.

Our Cancer Prevention and Early Detection program provides a wide variety of cancer screenings - including our mobile screening van - and educational services in schools and other locations throughout our region.

o help our staff and medical professionals from across our region keep abreast of the latest developments in cancer care, The Cancer Center hosts a monthly oncology education program. Guest speakers have included nationally recognized cancer experts from such respected institutions as the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and the National Cancer Institute.