In my previous post, I talked about the advantages of proton therapy, a new-old type of cancer treatment that can provide equal or better results for some tumor types, while doing less damage to healthy tissues. The first proton treatment center that is not part of an academic health center opened recently in Oklahoma City. Last week, I was invited to tour the ProCure Proton Therapy Center and the adjacent Integris Cancer Institute of Oklahoma.

The center is equipped with the most advanced proton therapy technology available on the planet. This technology is akin to what you normally see in a science-fiction movie: There are inclined beam rooms, which are the only ones of their kind in the world, a fixed beam room and a 360° gantry room, all designed to provide the most direct proton radiation to different cancer types. Because accuracy is very important, a robotic patient positioning system adjusts automatically for position and immobilization and real-time imaging technology optimizes treatment precision.

Physicists and electrical engineers work behind the scenes in conjunction with doctors, nurses, and therapists to design each patient’s treatment plan. These highly specialized professionals receive training at ProCure’s training and development center in Indiana, the world’s only facility dedicated to proton therapy training. Once on the job, they use their advanced skills to provide highly complex patient care.

Since patients with cancer need more than just proton therapy, the adjacent Integris center provides state-of-the art comprehensive cancer care such as advanced ambulatory cancer care, immunotherapy, genetic counseling, chemotherapy, blood cell transplants, intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), image guided radiation therapy (IGRT), radiosurgery and Trilogy treatments. Together, the two centers provide a one-stop shop that takes care of all the patient’s needs.

What struck me more than the amazing technology at the two centers is the healing environment. Cancer therapy takes several weeks at a time and patients sometimes travel from faraway places. Therefore, a concierge — just like the one you see at the Hilton! — is available to assist patients with personal needs such as finding housing and connecting with other patients. When a patient checks in, they are given a “magic card” that has all their information on it and that card is swiped every time the patient receives treatment or has a procedure.

In addition, each patient is assigned a personal care team that manages their therapy throughout their treatment. The team consists of a radiation oncologist, nurse and radiation therapist. It assists patients in preparing for daily treatment and making sure they are fully informed about their progress. Other services that contribute to this patient-friendly environment include a meditation room, a wellness center with massage therapy, a children’s play room and a healing garden.

As I finished my tour in Oklahoma City, it came to me that the high-tech equipments at the center are only matched by the high-touch of the people that operate them. This type of care should be available to cancer patients everywhere…