Our nationally recognized radiation oncology services are for adults and children with cancer and noncancerous conditions. You have access to a broad range of services and a team that cares about you as an individual. We combine outstanding treatment with a compassionate approach to deliver the high-quality services people have come to expect from Baystate Health.
What Is a Radiation Oncologist?
A radiation oncologist is a doctor who specializes in using radiation to treat cancers and other noncancerous conditions. Radiation is energy that is precisely targeted to the tumor and often works together with chemotherapy and surgery to provide the most benefit.
Radiation Oncology at Baystate Health: Why Choose Us?
Our skilled team works together to deliver the highest level of care. Our commitment to excellence helps us maintain our American College of Radiation Oncology accreditation. It’s also a sign that you can count on us for safe therapies tailored to your needs.
Highlights of our program include:
Expertise: All of our radiation oncologists are board-certified. They passed rigorous exams demonstrating their knowledge and stay current on the latest radiation therapy research. As the regional campus of UMass Medical School, doctors at Baystate Medical Center often have a hand in scientific advancements and clinical trials. Meet our team.
Whole-person approach: Radiation therapy is typically one of many treatments you receive. Baystate Regional Cancer Program offers a full range of services, including surgery and chemotherapy, along with the support you deserve. It’s all part of our mission to improve the health of our community.
Advanced options: You have access to sophisticated options that are not widely available, including:
- Dupuytren’s contracture care: We offer radiation therapy treatments to soften the skin, helping many patients avoid surgery. Our radiation oncologists were the first in the region to treat Dupuytren’s contracture. This noncancerous condition causes an abnormal thickening of skin in the palm of the hand that may cause nodules or cords. We are also among the first in the U.S. using a 3D printer to optimize and customize this treatment.
- High-dose-rate brachytherapy: We use a robotically controlled radioactive source to deliver treatment directly to tumors. We apply treatment from the inside and sometimes to the surface of the body. Find out more about types of radiation therapy we offer.
Easy access: At Baystate Health, you receive services where you are most comfortable, near home and loved ones. We have four state-of-the-art treatment machines (linear accelerators) making it easier to schedule therapies at your convenience. If you have questions between sessions, we are available by phone or secure patient portal, MyBaystate.
How Can Radiation Therapy Help Me?
We may recommend radiation therapy to:
- Reduce tumor size, which can increase the chances of successfully removing it with surgery.
- Eliminate trace levels of cancer that remain after other therapies to prevent cancer from spreading.
- Control pain, pressure and other cancer side effects.
- Destroy abnormal cells responsible for noncancerous conditions, like certain brain tumors and abnormal bone formations.
Our careful attention through every phase of treatment helps you achieve the best possible results.
Radiation Oncology Second Opinions
Radiation therapy is often complex and there are often multiple treatment options, so it may be helpful to get a second opinion. Getting a second opinion involves discussing your potential treatment plan with a radiation oncologist from another organization.
A second opinion may confirm that the original plan is appropriate. Or, you may learn about additional options. Our close collaboration with most cancer hospitals in New England will help your radiation oncologist recommend an appropriate hospital, if you would like to obtain a second opinion:
- If you are a Baystate Health patient: We encourage you to get the information you need to make an informed care decision. Nearly all patients who seek a second opinion outside our program come back to us for treatment.
- If you are not a current Baystate Health patient: We welcome the opportunity to participate in your care. Contact us for a second opinion.
Find Out More About Our Radiation Therapy Services
To learn more about our services or make an appointment, call 413-794-9338 or request an appointment.