A new facility and a partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey bring the highest level of cancer care to Hudson County.
World-class cancer care is now closer to home for Hudson County residents with the addition of Jersey City Medical Center (JCMC) Radiation Oncology. The practice is led by JCMC specialists in partnership with Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. That NCI designation reflects a high level of commitment to cancer research, prevention, education and care.
Rutgers Cancer Institute is one of only 51 cancer centers in the country to have earned this highly coveted designation. “Our partnership with Jersey City Medical Center means people locally will have access to a broader range of specialists and subspecialists in cancer care and research,” says Bruce Haffty, MD, Associate Vice Chancellor for Cancer Programs with Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences and Chair of Radiation Oncology at Rutgers Cancer Institute, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Rutgers New Jersey Medical School.
“Because of our comprehensive team, we’re able to off er additional expertise, plus access to clinical trials that are often only available at NCI-Designated Cancer Centers,” Dr. Haffty says. “The new partnership also means patients here no longer have to travel far from home to get this high level of care.”
Convenience counts
When it comes to radiation oncology, getting treatment closer to home can be significant, says radiation oncologist Alan Shaiman, MD, who is leading the new practice.
Radiation is one of the most common ways to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It’s often used to treat people who have cancer of the breast, prostate, lung and other types. “Patients usually need radiation therapy five days a week, for up to nine weeks,” Dr. Shaiman says. “So local care is a great benefit.” In addition, all patients receiving care at JCMC Radiation Oncology are part of a weekly review that includes Rutgers Cancer Institute specialists.
“Our facility is beautiful, and there is ample free parking in our own lot,” Dr. Shaiman says. “Also, if a patient needs help getting to and from their appointment, our staff can assist.” The Rutgers Cancer Institute partnership with JCMC is just a first step toward a multiyear plan to bring a new cancer center to the Hudson County area, Dr. Haffty says.“Jersey City is a growing and vibrant area,” he says. “It’s nice to be part of improving cancer care for people in this region.”
The Jersey City Medical Center Radiation Oncology practice is located at 631 Grand Street. To schedule an appointment, call: 844.CANCERNJ (844.226.2376)