From diagnosis to treatment and often cure, the cancer care services at CarolinaEast Health System are the most advanced in the coastal Carolina region. The program, accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, was the first to offer life-saving radiation therapy to the region. Two linear accelerators generate radiation therapy for over 600 patients annually each undergoing numerous treatments. Board certified radiation oncologists prescribe the radiation regimen that can include intensity modulated radiation therapy, the most advanced form of the life-saving treatment. Medical oncologists, specialy trained in the treatment of cancer, care for patients in a dedicated inpatient oncology unit where certified oncology nurses understand the unique needs of cancer patients and their families. A patient and family resource room houses literature about the disease and offers Internet access to web-sites focused on the latest advances in cancer treatment and cure.
Diagnostic Imaging is often the first step in the diagnosis of cancer. At CarolinaEast, we employ the latest technology available to help physicians discover cancers and begin planning the patient’s recovery. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) CT scanning, is recognized as the most advanced, effective non-invasive cancer diagnostic tool. When surgery is required, skilled surgeons and anesthesiologists perform complex procedures in a modern operating environment complete with the latest in precision laser technology.
Annually, the Health System sponsors and participates in a number of community initiatives to diagnose cancer in its earliest stages and to increase awareness of cancer prevention, treatment and cure. Low or no cost screenings, for diseases such as prostate and skin cancer, have alerted thousands of people to seek treatment. Teams of employees from the Medical Center can be found at the annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life fundraising and educational event.