Cancer Care
As part of our commitment to provide superior patient care, we offer a comprehensive range of cancer treatments and therapy options close to home so those facing cancer can focus on recovery with the support of friends and family.
Comprehensive Cancer Care
Mercy and Memorial Hospitals, together with our partner the Comprehensive Blood and Cancer Center (CBCC), are dedicated to meeting the special needs of patients who have cancer and their families. Our experienced team of caregivers is committed to providing high quality care for the mind, body, and spirit.
Radiation Oncology
CBCC is one of the nation's largest freestanding cancer centers and is home to advanced options for the treatment of cancer. Staying at the forefront when it comes to technology is a priority. For example, CBCC is one of only a handful of locations on the West Coast to offer CyberKnife, a revolutionary non-invasive alternative to surgery for the treatment of tumors anywhere in the body. The commitment means we bring the most advanced treatment options to our patients.
Please visit CBCCusa.com to learn more.
Infusion Center
The Dignity Health Infusion Center is conveniently located inside CBCC and is a comfortable, peaceful environment for patients receiving infusion therapy.
Infusion services provided by our specialized staff include:
- Chemotherapy
- Antibiotic therapy
- Blood transfusions and vaccinations
- Fluids for dehydration
- Side-effect-prevention treatment via injection or intravenous infusion
- Central line draws/dressing changes
- Infusion education
- Plasmapheresis
- Surgical Service
Dignity Health offers specialized surgical options for the treatment of cancer, including daVinci robotic-assisted surgery, available at Memorial Hospital. Skilled surgeons with the support of experienced anesthesiologists, nurses, and other ancillary staff are committed to ensuring our patients have the best outcome possible.
Inpatient Oncology Unit
The inpatient oncology unit, located at Mercy Hospital Downtown, brings patients with cancer together with specialized nursing care in a single dedicated space. This enhancement allows for improved coordination of care and a better overall experience for our patients and their families.
Specialized Nursing Care
The registered nurses caring for patients here have completed Oncology Nursing Certification, a nationally-recognized credential for nurses who complete specialized training in oncology care. They have knowledge and experience in caring for patients experiencing the complex problems that can be associated with cancer.
Multidisciplinary Rounds
A multidisciplinary team of caregivers visits our patients every afternoon during the week. The team consists of a nurse, a pharmacist, a representative from dietary, social services, and a case manager in addition to any family members our patients would like included.
Depending on the patient's individual needs, other care representatives may also participate. We will discuss the plan of care and answer any questions. It's important to us that our patients play an active role in their health care.
Family Accommodations and Lounge
We recognize the impact a diagnosis of cancer can have on patients as well as family members. Our inpatient oncology unit was designed in collaboration with hospital staff, physicians, and our Patient and Family Centered Care team with the medical and emotional needs of our patients and their loved ones in mind. Family can be an important part of healing, so our patient rooms can accommodate family members who wish to stay overnight.
The family lounge provides a comfortable place for families with a loved one on the unit to visit away from the bedside. A television, magazines, and other items are available for families and patients to use at any time. Refreshments are also available in the family lounge.
Inpatient Oncology Unit
The inpatient oncology unit at Mercy Hospital Downtown, unit brings patients with cancer together with specialized nursing care in a single dedicated space. This enhancement allows for improved coordination of care and a better overall experience for our patients and their families.
The inpatient oncology unit at Mercy Hospital Downtown offers:
- Oncology certified nurses who have knowledge and experience caring for patients experiencing the complex problems that can be associated with cancer
- Daily visits from the team of caregivers involved in each patient’s care
- Family accommodations so loved ones can comfortably spend the night
- Family lounge that provides a comfortable place for families to visit away from the bedside
- Art for Healing programs offered regularly on the unit and by request
- Support group that meets on the unit
Art for Healing
Art for Healing offers patients and their families an opportunity to experience the healing benefits that may come from creative expression. Art for Healing offers programs on the unit weekly.
Mercy Cares Support Group
Mercy Cares is a general support group for our inpatients diagnosed with cancer and their loved ones. The group is led by our Social Services Department and meets weekly on the unit.
Additional Resources
We can assist patients with access to other resources such as nutritional counseling, wound care, genetics education, home health, palliative care, and social services. We can also help identify resources available throughout our community that would benefit our patients, and their families.
Research
CBCC is part of the UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center's Translational Oncology Research International (TORI) network. This partnership allows our patients early access to the latest clinical trials without having to travel to UCLA.
To learn more about clinical trials at CBCC, visit CBCCusa.com.
Lung Cancer Screenings
A study conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) showed that screening people at high risk for lung cancer with low dose computed tomography (CT) scans reduced lung cancer deaths by 20%.
Learn More About Cancer Services
For more information about our cancer services visit our Mercy Hospital.
If you are looking for a doctor, please call 661.324.7070.