SoutheastHEALTH Opens State-of-the-Art Cancer Center

Southeast Cancer Center offers an innovative, patient-focused approach to cancer care that's unique to the region.

From its sleek architectural style and state-of-the-art technology to Southeast's leading cancer specialists and revolutionary approach to patient care, the new Southeast Cancer Center ushers in a new era of caring to the region that focuses on life, hope and each patient's journey.

"It's designed to make people receiving treatment feel like more than just a patient," says Cancer Center executive director Judy Aslin, MSN, RN, NEA-BC. "The goal is to provide an environment that doesn't seem so clinical while instilling hope and helping our patients realize that we are their partner in their journey."

Joseph P. Miller, MD, medical director of radiation oncology at Southeast, says, "Our job is to help our patients find meaning in each day of life and help them focus on the joy of living."

"At some point in our lives, cancer touches all of us in one way or another. Providing cancer patients with excellent care which results in the best possible outcome is a mission we do not take lightly," says hospital president and CEO Debbie Linnes. "Achieving excellence and delivering excellent care is something we plan for and strive for on a daily basis," she adds.

As part of the Cancer Center's welcoming design, some 90 pieces of artwork are displayed throughout the building including these colorful panels.

The 54,000 square foot Cancer Center opened in February at 789 S. Mount Auburn Road on SoutheastHEALTH'S West Campus, adjacent to the Southeast Medical Plaza just east of Interstate 55. The $33 million facility, with its landmark, glass-wall design, marked the largest construction project in the history of Southeast Hospital.

Leading the Way in Cancer Care

The center positions Southeast as the leading cancer treatment provider in the area with 33 infusion bays, cutting-edge radiation therapy, highly experienced and dedicated staff as well as expert radiation and medical oncologists. Dedicated guides are available to assist patients and work to personalize each patient's journey.

Everything about the facility is state of the art. It houses two linear accelerators to deliver precise radiation treatments, with room for future growth, and the first permanent PET/CT medical imaging device in the area.

The exterior and interior design are all part of an effort to provide a unique and welcoming patient experience, Aslin says. Toward that end, the Cancer Center displays some 90 pieces of artwork, many by local artists. "We wanted to make the Cancer Center a place where you feel welcome," Aslin explains.

The Cancer Center houses two linear accelerators, one of which is shown here. The large, high-tech machines deliver precise radiation treatments.

Connected to the cancer center via a single-story walkway is the Southeast Medical Plaza, complete with a pharmacy and physician offices. Between the two buildings, a peaceful, landscaped garden will showcase nature's beauty. It is scheduled for completion by May.

The Cancer Center's design, Aslin explains, creates a calming, stress-reducing, family environment that respects patient dignity and privacy. Infusion bays, for example, have large, comfortable chairs, wood paneling made from recycled shipping crates, wall-mounted televisions, reading lights and large shades that can be drawn to keep out exterior light when desired. Says Aslin, "The focus is not just on excellent medical care, but on elevating each patient's life."

SoutheastHEALTH was the provider of choice for more than 800 newly diagnosed cancer patients and their families last year. Southeast's cancer program has received three-year Accreditation with Commendation from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. Only about 25 percent of the nation's hospitals have earned this prestigious designation.