Medical Oncology
Determining what's right for you
Medical Oncology is the specialty that deals with the diagnosis management and treatment of cancer. The medical oncologist determines the proper choice, most effective dose and schedule of drugs.
At St. Vincent’s, our multidisciplinary approach to cancer care means they work in close collaboration with radiation oncologists, surgeons, technicians, nurses and support staff, to determine which combination of treatments offers the best outcome.
At St. Vincent’s, we have two areas where patients with cancer are managed and treated. Our inpatient unit where patients receive treatments that are more appropriately administered in the hospital and the Ambulatory Infusion Center (AIC) which has state-of-the-art technology designed for patients receiving treatment that can be administered as an outpatient.
Our center is staffed with highly experienced professionals with medical specialties in oncology and hematology. They focus on treating the whole person and not just the disease.
Following the initial diagnosis of cancer, there are standard procedures to stage the disease followed by a determination of the most appropriate treatment. The treatment often involves multiple modalities, including surgery, radiation therapy and medications.
Medical oncologists treat malignancies with medications that range from typical chemotherapeutic drugs to biologic agents. Often, their administration needs to be coordinated with the other modalities of surgery and radiation therapy, and so collaboration between medical, radiation and surgical oncologists is critical.
At St. Vincent’s Medical Center, these collaborative efforts have been greatly facilitated through the creation of the Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care. The Cancer Center enables the multiple disciplines to practice under the same roof in close contact, which has greatly improved communication, resulting in improved patient care and outcomes.
A major focus of the division of medical oncology is personalized or individualized therapy. This involves the identification of specific characteristics of an individual’s cancer, allowing for the optimal treatment to be selected for a specific patient. Though this approach is relatively new, St. Vincent’s is deeply committed to its immediate application so that our patients receive state-of-the-art care and achieve optimal outcomes.
This effort reflects a commitment to the patients we are honored to serve. We strive to provide the best care available in a compassionate environment that holds the individual in the highest regard and concern.
Compassion is our mission
At St. Vincent’s, you can expect an experienced, compassionate team of physicians and staff to see you through all the phases of care, from screening, diagnosis, treatment and support. Compassionate care is our mission.
The Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care
The Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care is accredited with commendation by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.
Criteria for accreditation include a relationship with the American Cancer Society (ACS) and a representative from the ACS is a member of our Hospital Committee on Cancer.
Click in for additional information about specific cancers listed by ACS, and call the Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care's referral line: 1-877-231-SWIM (7946) for more informaton.
Contact us
To find a St. Vincent’s physician who can discuss your health concerns or those of a loved one, please click on our FIND A DOCTOR tool and search by specialty, practice, location or keyword. We’re here to help you locate the medical expert you need.
To speak with a St. Vincent's Care Line representative, call (877) 255-7847
To speak with somone at the front desk of the Medical Center, please call (203) 576-6000
Click in for St. Vincent's Medical Center DIRECTIONS | MAPS | PARKING information