Chemotherapy and Other Medical Oncology

Chemotherapy and medical oncology (using drugs and other therapies to slow or stop cancer cell growth) are often an important part of cancer care. There are many options available, and treatment is different for each person. That’s why it’s important to have specialists on your side who can deliver the right therapy for you.

Our team has decades of experience providing customized medical oncology treatment for people with all types of cancers. We provide the right type and dose of medication based on your health history, diagnosis, and lifestyle. And we focus on preventing or managing side effects — because your quality-of-life matters.

Chemotherapy Locations

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Chemotherapy and Medical Oncology at Trinity Health Michigan: Why Choose Us?

Our medical oncologists have specialized training in chemotherapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy. You receive:

• Expertise: Many of our medical oncologists have trained in the nation’s top programs, so they know the best cancer therapies. Our team’s skill means we can treat even the most complex forms of cancer.
  
  
• Quality care: We are a certified Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI®) program, a designation awarded by the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Certification means we deliver safe, effective care that’s appropriate for your circumstances.
  
  
• Infusion excellence: Our infusion centers are staffed by experienced, caring nurses and team members who focus on your well-being. Our team safely delivers your treatments while helping you feel as comfortable as possible. We talk with you about potential side effects and work to avoid them.
  
  
• Access to clinical trials: We are grant funded through the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP). As one of the top NCORP enrollers, we offer over 100 different active clinical trials. We collaborate with other cancer programs to explore new treatments, including innovative chemotherapy drugs. Talk to your care team about open clinical trials that may be right for you. Get more information about cancer research and clinical trials.
  
  
• Precision medicine: We are a national leader in precision medicine, which uses genetic tests to pinpoint changes (mutations) in cancer cells. Then, we customize your treatment based on the specific mutation. This leading genetic cancer analysis gives you a better chance of successful treatment. Learn more about genetic testing.
  
  
• Collaboration: We work with other cancer experts to stay on top of the latest and best treatments. Our specialists meet with cancer experts across the country to discuss complex cases and share their expertise. And our West Michigan cancer team collaborates with University of Michigan Health – West through the Cancer Network of West Michigan.

Coordinated Medical Oncology and Chemotherapy

Our medical oncology specialists work with other Trinity Health Michigan cancer experts. Together, we coordinate the most effective treatments so you can focus on getting better. Your care may include:

Chemotherapy

Our experienced medical oncologists select the chemotherapy medication that works best for your diagnosis. For more complex cancers, we safely combine multiple chemotherapy drugs, which can help achieve better results.

We participate in clinical trials, so you can access new chemotherapy drugs that are not widely available. Our decades of cancer research experience mean you receive excellent care while participating

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a newer form of medical oncology that uses the power of your immune system to fight cancer. It helps your immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells in the body. Also called biological therapy, immunotherapy is customized for each person, so a skilled medical oncology team is essential.

Our experts participate in the latest research and are specially trained in immunotherapy. You can feel confident in our ability to deliver the most effective treatment for your needs.

Targeted Therapies

Targeted therapies block specific molecules of genes in cancer cells, preventing them from growing and spreading. Our medical oncologists use advanced genetic testing to locate these genes. Then, we design a personalized treatment plan specifically for that tumor type.

Targeted therapies usually have fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy. But these treatments are only approved for certain cancer types. Our providers discuss which treatment is best for you so you can make informed, confident decisions about your care.

What to Expect with Chemotherapy and Medical Oncology

If you need chemotherapy or other medical oncology, our providers take the time to explain the details of your treatment plan. In some cases, you take medicines at home in the form of a pill you swallow. Other types of medical oncology require an intravenous (IV) line, so you’ll go to one of our infusion centers.

If you need care at one of our infusion centers, you:

• Get information: Receive information about your medication, dosage, and treatment schedule from your provider.
  
  
• Find a center: Choose a Trinity Health Michigan infusion center that’s convenient for you.
  
  
• Go to your appointment: Go to your chosen infusion center for each of your appointments. You may need to go to your infusion treatments several days per week for a few weeks. Your schedule depends on your medical needs.
  
  
• Receive treatment: Sit in a comfortable chair in a private area while our oncology nurses deliver your treatment and ensure your comfort. You can watch TV, read, listen to music, or just relax. We also have drinks and snacks available for you and your support person.
  
  
• Go home: You can go home after your treatment is finished. You may need your support person to drive you home, depending on how you feel.

Caring for Chemotherapy Side Effects

Even the most effective and advanced cancer medications can cause side effects. Our cancer team is ready to provide expert care. We consider any possible side effects — and how to avoid them — from the very start of your treatment.

Our whole-person approach to cancer care means we are ready to help you prevent or manage side effects from chemotherapy and medical oncology. Some of the services we provide include:

• Emotional support: Our cancer social workers help you find solutions to daily challenges, like work and financial issues. You also receive support for emotional, social and spiritual health needs throughout your treatment. Learn more about our supportive care and services.
  
  
• Medications: When needed, our physicians prescribe medications to help you manage side effects. We carefully select medications that are safe for you and work well with your treatment plan.
  
  
• Mental health: Dealing with a cancer diagnosis can cause anxiety, depression, and mood changes. Our mental health experts specialize in caring for people with cancer and can help you through it.
  
  
• Nutrition counseling: Our registered dietitians care for people going through cancer treatment who may have appetite changes or special nutritional needs.