One of the most dreaded diagnoses a person can get— cancer—will never be easy to hear, but a new cancer center in Lancaster has the potential to make the experience as pleasant as could be possible.
The Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute at Lancaster General Health (www.lancastergeneralhealth.org), which opened in July, encompasses features that not only heal and care for the body but also soothe and nourish the spirit.
“This is a deeply scientific, highly technologically advanced program embedded in a soft way that is accessible to people,” says Dr. Randall Oyer, medical director of the Oncology Program Barshinger Cancer Institute, as he sits in the spacious lobby, which is filled with natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows that grace the entrance. Nearby, paintings of local artists hang in a glass-encased room, and an expansive wall of live green plants, grown hydroponically, serves as a backdrop to the reception area.
The beauty and aesthetic of the lobby belies the cancer-fighting work that goes on just around the corner.
The Barshinger Cancer Institute includes the CyberKnife M6 System, the most advanced radiosurgery system in the world, with Lancaster General Health being the first in the country to use it. Also, it boasts the most technologically advanced oncology pharmacy in Lancaster County, which incorporates multiple safety steps in the preparation and delivery of chemotherapy. Additionally, an outstanding achievement award was given to Lancaster General Health’s cancer program in May as one of only 79 in the country honored by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer, which is the nation’s premier cancer program rating system, says Oyer.
Not only is the Barshinger Cancer Institute filled with impressive technology, staff and programs, but it was built to incorporate natural light and nature, says Oyer, which is evident throughout. An abundance of windows and skylights bring light in throughout most of the building that is used by patients. The second floor rings an outdoor Healing Garden, which incorporates native plants, walkways, benches and water features. On one side of the Healing Garden is the Meditation Pavilion, which opens from the second floor hallway. This indoor contemplative space is framed by windows and faces a reflecting pool filled with large pebbles.
Adding to the institute’s warm and inviting atmosphere is the work of 90 local artists. The walls that ring the second floor and other areas of the building are filled with 200 pieces of art.
“Whole person care” is one of the missions of the Barshinger Cancer Institute, which was designed to transform cancer care under a new model, says Frieda Schmidt, public relations manager of Lancaster General Health.
“For the past five years, we have been actively building our programs, teams and expertise. We moved in as fully mature teams, ready to build upon the synergy and convenience that the building offers for patients, families and caregivers,” says Oyer.
The program at the Barshinger Cancer Institute was built on the National Cancer Institute model, says Oyer. As part of that model, Lancaster General Health works in partnership with the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and its Abramson Cancer Center. Patients at the Barshinger Cancer Institute have access to resources and clinical trials at the University of Pennsylvania.
“We use the highest industry standards for everything we do. National guidelines are built into our standards,” Oyer says.
“We have well-developed teams in breast, gastrointestinal, lung, gynecologic, urologic and technicians are clothed in double sets of gowns, gloves and masks. In the chemotherapy pod, where the medicine is infused into patients, 31 private areas with either beds or chairs are provided, with some areas having access to balconies off the second floor. The windows can be shaded electronically for more privacy, and patients have access to TV, Wi-Fi, movies or music. The chairs are equipped with heat and massage features.
At the Image Recovery Center, patients can get a massage, have acupuncture treatments, receive a facial and make-up application and have therapeutic manicures and pedicures, all complimentary, says Julie McCormick, clinical cosmetologist. They can be fitted for wigs and scarves and have a complimentary haircut when their hair starts growing back.The Barshinger Cancer Institute is also developing an integrated medicine program, which is divided into three parts, says Oyer: exercise and physical activity, including physical therapy; nutrition, vitamins and supplements; and stress reduction, which includes mind-body stress reduction, certified behavioral counselors, chaplains, stress screening, yoga, acupuncture, massage, reiki and the services of the Image Recovery Center.
Oyer has been involved in the Barshinger Cancer Institute from its inception and visited the site every week during construction. He walks through the building as if it is his own home, and he knows the name of every staff person he encounters.
He is obviously proud of not just the building and technology but the patient-centered program.
“It is the perfect marriage of science and humanity,” says Oyer.
