CLINTON, Md. — Local patients battling cancer are experiencing a new era of convenience and innovation in treatment options thanks to the MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center. Celebrating its four-year anniversary, this facility has been a beacon of hope, offering cutting-edge cancer therapies and clinical trials in collaboration with the esteemed Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, recognized by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as a comprehensive cancer center, a distinction unique to the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.
Since its inception on February 27, 2020, the institute has revolutionized cancer care in Prince George’s County and the wider southern Maryland area. Even in the face of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the center has not faltered in its mission to provide unparalleled access to the latest treatments. Upgrades and renovations have expanded the facility’s capabilities significantly, including an enlarged chemotherapy infusion space, a broad spectrum of clinical trials, and pioneering radiotherapy techniques such as ZAP-X® Radiosurgery, specifically targeting cancers prevalent in the local community like breast, lung, and prostate cancers.
Dr. Stephen T. Michaels, president of MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center, emphasized the transformative impact of bringing such advanced care directly to the hospital. “We’ve been at the forefront of cancer treatment for over four decades, but the opening of this cancer center marks a milestone in our journey towards providing comprehensive, multidisciplinary cancer care that meets the urgent needs of our community,” he stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Maryland State Senator Michael A. Jackson highlighted the center’s rapid evolution into a critical healthcare resource for southern Maryland. “The facility’s emergence as a leader in providing advanced treatment options locally is a testament to its vital role in our community’s health and wellbeing,” Jackson remarked.
The MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute boasts a 25,000-square-foot facility equipped with an advanced infusion center, a women’s imaging suite offering the latest in diagnostic technology, and state-of-the-art radiation therapy options including Halcyon™ and ZAP-X® systems, the latter being a first on the East Coast for treating brain cancers.
Further enhancing its offerings, the institute provides patients with access to clinical trials conducted by the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, potentially offering treatments before they are widely available.
Dr. Kathan D. Mehta, head of Hematology Oncology at the institute, praised the comprehensive nature of the care provided. “Our commitment to ensuring our patients receive top-tier care without the need to travel extensively is unwavering. We’re not just treating cancer; we’re offering hope and support through a world-class team right here in our community,” Mehta said.
The hospital’s cancer program proudly bears accreditation from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC), signifying its dedication to providing high-quality, comprehensive care. Additionally, its radiotherapy services have earned accreditation from the American College of Radiology (ACR), further cementing its status as a premier provider of cancer treatment services.
