Live music, refreshments, free facility tours and "ask the doctor" sessions are just some of the highlights of the grand opening celebration. The Cancer Center will also be offering free prostate and skin cancer screenings by appointment. Appointments can be made by calling 713-222-CARE (2273). Appointments are limited and will be made on a first come first served basis.
"We are creating a cancer center because we are committed to bringing the highest level of care and outstanding patient experiences closer to the residents of Southeast Houston," said Kyle Price, director of Imaging Services/Cancer Services. "Our patient-centered facility gives the Southeast Houston community access to cancer-treating technologies typically only found in large medical centers."
Officially opening to the public on Tuesday, September 4, the state-of-the art Cancer Center is designed with patient convenience in mind and will offer a welcoming environment and support services, as well as leading-edge radiation services.
The radiation oncology program includes a variety of revolutionary cancer treating techniques, including the Triple Energy Linear Accelerator-the only one of its kind in the entire Houston area. The accelerator, which delivers a uniform dose of high-energy X-ray to the tumor, is an innovative image-guided radiation therapy system that provides greater precision for targeting and treating tumors.
In addition to the center's highly personalized physical care, the staff will also provide ongoing emotional support during the patient's treatment. Social workers will assist with any non-medical needs a patient may be facing as a result of his/her illness. The center plans to offer risk assessments and education, as well as genetic testing and counseling for individuals at a high risk of contracting hereditary breast, ovarian, colorectal and endometrial cancer.
"Our cancer center features the hallmarks Memorial Hermann patients have come to expect, putting patients first and supporting them with advanced treatments and a team of gifted caregivers," added Price.