Intermountain Health St. Mary’s Regional Hospital has invested more than $2 million for new equipment and technology to improve quality of care and comfort of their patients receiving cancer care in the Grand Junction area.

Intermountain St. Mary’s Cancer Centers of Colorado purchased a new a new computed tomography (CT) scanner that offers several enhancements over the center’s existing scanner.

The new model, a Siemens SOMATOM go.SIM CT Simulator, has access to the latest tools.

Physicians rely on having clear images of a patient’s cancerous tumor, so the dosimetrist can create plans of how radiation can target that tumor.

April Grumley, Intermountain Health manager of oncology services and radiation oncology, said that it is important to be as precise as possible when delivering radiation so only the tumor is impacted and surrounding tissue and organs are protected.

One of the new tools provides the ability to do a CT scan with contrast. This is a standard imaging procedure in which a dye is injected into the body, and it allows the dosimetrist to better see critical anatomy and certain tumors. This helps the dosimetrist be more precise and develop better treatment plans for patients.

The new CT machine also removes metal artifacts such as a pacemaker, dental implants, or the hardware in a shoulder, hip or knee replacement from the images it produces. When those artifacts are removed from the scan, the physicians and dosimetrists can see structures more clearly and create more accurate treatment plans. Previously, patients went to the hospital to have a CT scan with contrast.

The cancer center has also expanded the technology that improves how radiation treatments are delivered. Vision RT Surface Guided Radiation Therapy allows the radiation therapist to continually monitor the position of patients throughout treatment. The technology detects even the slightest movement of the patient in real time and can stop the treatment until the patient is positioned correctly.

The cancer center has used this type of technology since 2015. Now, with the latest version added to the linear accelerator, they can serve more patients who have a wider range of cancer diagnoses.

“Perhaps most important for patients is the ability to now wear an open-face mask during treatment,” Grumley said. Previously, patients wore a full-face mask that attaches to the patient's board and keeps them from moving throughout the treatment, which often lasts as long as 15 minutes.

The final piece of equipment the cancer center acquired literally makes a small degree of change with the patient but has a big impact on the precision of their treatment, Grumley said.

The 6 Degrees of Freedom Treatment Couch can tilt in six directions enabling greater precision in placing the patient, improved treatment accuracy for difficult treatment sites, and better alignment between the daily imaging and treatment delivery.

“This new equipment and technology is a major advancement for our patients in Western Colorado and shows our commitment to bringing the most advanced capabilities to the Grand Valley,” Grumley said.

The new technology will benefit patients diagnosed with several types of cancer including head and neck, brain, and lung.

Cancer Centers of Colorado, Intermountain St. Mary’s Regional Hospital at 750 Wellington Ave., in Grand Junction offers medical and radiation oncology, genetic counseling, palliative care, clinical trials, support groups and survivorship care. St. Mary’s is accredited by American Society for Radiation Oncology’s Accreditation Program for Excellence, the Commission on Cancer, and the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers.

For more information, visit Intermountain Health St. Mary’s Regional Hospital Cancer.

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Intermountain Health Park City Hospital celebró la apertura de su nuevo centro oncológico el jueves con un acto de corte de cinta y una visita guiada para el público.

El nuevo Centro Oncológico de Intermountain Health Park City Hospital atenderá hasta 1,500 pacientes al año con espacio ampliado, equipos de alta tecnología y opciones de tratamiento más cerca de casa.

“El cáncer ya es un viaje difícil para los pacientes y sus familias, y brindar atención que salva vidas cerca de casa en Wasatch Back ayudará a aliviar parte de este estrés”, dijo Tawnya Bowles, MD, cirujana oncológica de Intermountain Health y directora médica sénior de Servicios de Oncología para la región de Canyon de Intermountain Health. “Esperamos que este nuevo centro ayude a aliviar la carga para que los pacientes puedan concentrarse en recuperarse”.

El nuevo centro oncológico de Intermountain tiene 10,800 pies cuadrados y cuenta con 18 cabinas de infusión, lo que supone un aumento considerable con respecto a las cuatro cabinas que habían estado prestando servicio a los pacientes durante los últimos años. También habrá salas dedicadas para citas de oncología médica, que permitirán visitas de telesalud con expertos en cáncer de Intermountain fuera del área de Wasatch Back.

Una de las mayores adiciones es un acelerador lineal avanzado para tratamientos con radiación de última generación. Si bien en muchos hospitales se ofrecen servicios de infusión para quimioterapia, la tecnología avanzada y los conocimientos especializados necesarios para los servicios de radiación hacen que sea difícil encontrarlos en muchos centros rurales.

“Los tratamientos con radiación son tratamientos diarios que duran casi dos meses, lo que hace que tener oncología radioterápica cerca de casa sea tan importante”, dijo la Dra. Bowles. “Cuando hablamos de programas de tratamiento intensos, el hecho de no tener que conducir más lejos en el valle supone una gran diferencia para nuestros pacientes”.

El nuevo Centro Oncológico de Intermountain es una de las varias ampliaciones que ha tenido Intermountain Park City Hospital desde su inauguración en 2009. Desde entonces, el aumento de personas que viven, trabajan y visitan el área de Wasatch Back ha requerido que el hospital agregue más servicios para satisfacer la demanda de servicios de atención médica.

“Este es el siguiente paso importante para que nuestro hospital continúe satisfaciendo las necesidades de nuestra comunidad y ayude a los residentes de nuestra comunidad a vivir la vida más saludable posible”, dijo Lori Weston, presidenta de Intermountain Park City Hospital. “Desde Wasatch Back, pasando por la cuenca de Uinta y hasta Wyoming, estamos trabajando arduamente para brindar la mejor atención oncológica posible a nuestros pacientes”.

Los estudios han demostrado que la atención del cáncer cerca de casa no solo es más conveniente, sino que también puede ayudar a los pacientes a cumplir con su programa de tratamiento recomendado, lo que puede dar lugar a mejores resultados.

Para obtener más información sobre el nuevo Centro Oncológico Intermountain Park City, haga clic aquí.

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NOTA PARA LOS MEDIOS: Videos e imágenes disponibles bajo petición.

Intermountain Park City Hospital celebrated the opening of its new cancer center on Thursday with a ribbon cutting and public tour.

The new Intermountain Health Park City Hospital Cancer Center will serve up to 1,500 patients annually with expanded space, high tech equipment, and treatment options closer to home.

“Cancer is already a difficult journey for patients and their families, and providing lifesaving care close to home in the Wasatch Back will help alleviate some of this stress,” said Tawnya Bowles, MD, an Intermountain Health cancer surgeon and senior medical director for oncology services for Intermountain Health’s Canyon’s Region. “We hope this new center helps ease the burden so patients can focus on getting well.”

The new Intermountain cancer center is 10,800-square feet and includes 18 infusion bays, a significant increase from the four bays which have served patients for the past several years. There will also be dedicated rooms for medical oncology appointments, which allow for telehealth visits with Intermountain cancer experts outside of the Wasatch Back.

One of the biggest additions is an advanced linear accelerator for state-of-the-art radiation treatment. While infusion services for chemotherapy are offered at many hospitals, the advanced technology and expertise needed for radiation services makes it difficult to find in many rural facilities.

“Radiation treatments are daily treatments over the course of nearly two months, which makes having radiation oncology close to home so important” said Dr. Bowles. “When we’re talking about intense treatment schedules, not having to drive further down the valley makes all the difference in the world for our patients.”

The new Intermountain Cancer Center is one of several expansions Intermountain Park City Hospital has undergone since first opening in 2009. Since then, the rise of people living, working, and visiting the Wasatch Back has required the hospital to add more services to meet the demand for healthcare services.

“This is the next major step for our hospital to continue to meet the needs of our community and to help residents in our community live the healthiest lives possible,” said Lori Weston, president of Intermountain Park City Hospital. “From the Wasatch Back, to the Unita Basin, and into Wyoming, we’re working hard to provide the best cancer care possible for our patients.”

Studies have shown that cancer care closer to home isn’t just more convenient but can help patients stay on their recommended treatment schedule which can lead to better outcomes.

For more information on new Intermountain Park City Cancer Center, click here.

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NOTE TO MEDIA: Video and images available upon request

The visit starts the way many of Matt Jensen’s appointments do with a quick check-in, a blood draw, and a conversation about snow. 

Jensen, 47, comes to the Intermountain Health Cancer Centers of Colorado in Golden every three weeks. After lab work, a review with his care team, and a few hours of IV hydration, he heads home with a two-week course of oral chemotherapy, followed by one week off before starting the cycle again. 

This type of routine began after a sudden health crisis in early 2021, when Jensen was 42 and focused on running his vinyl decal installation business and raising two kids as a single dad. 

“One morning I woke up really sick, I couldn't go to work, and they hauled me off to the emergency room,” Jensen said. 

Doctors found a mass in his lower intestine and removed it. Tests confirmed colorectal cancer that had spread to his lungs, liver and lymph nodes — an advanced diagnosis that can be difficult to treat and was unlikely to be cured. 

Looking back, Jensen said there were warning signs that he brushed aside. “Being busy, I ignored the signs,” he said, noting how easy it was to delay care while working long hours and parenting teenagers. 

Today, Jensen’s children are in their 20s and live nearby. He hopes to be there for their milestones — and he’s planning his own wedding next year. 

“Living with advanced stage cancer is a day-to-day thing,” he said. “I really try to stay active and not think about it.” These days, he spends time with friends on the disc golf course, travels with his fiancé and keeps tabs on a group text to see who’s heading out to snowboard each Thursday. 

Snowboarding has been part of Jensen’s life since he was 18, and he still finds time for mountain days when he’s feeling well and snow permits. He and his fiancé also take road trips and explore local trails in an older off-road vehicle — adventures, he said, that help keep life feeling normal. 

Jensen said he had symptoms before his diagnosis, but he didn’t want to slow down long enough to get them checked. That experience now shapes what he tells others: Pay attention to your body and don’t delay care. 

Jeff Owsley, MD, a medical oncologist with Intermountain Health, said that for patients with advanced colorectal cancer, treatment often focuses on extending life while protecting what matters most day to day. 

“It’s very important with any patient that we do our best to keep them alive as long as possible while trying to marry their quality-of-life aspects,” Owsley said. “He’s a very active individual, and we keep that in mind.” 

Dr. Owsley said cancer care continues to evolve, bringing new options and better ways to manage side effects that can otherwise be debilitating. “New treatments emerge,” he said, and teams keep looking for what might help each patient next. 

For Dr. Owsley, Jensen’s approach has been a reminder that a diagnosis doesn’t erase a person’s identity. “It’s just his continuation of his life,” he said. “His ability to try to live his life has been awesome to watch.” 

Dr. Owsley also sees a troubling pattern nationwide as more younger adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, sometimes at later stages. The American Cancer Society has reported rising incidence in people under 55, increasing about 1% to 2% each year since the mid-1990s. 

Researchers are still working to understand what’s driving the shift, Dr. Owsley said, and the answers may involve multiple factors. In the meantime, he emphasized awareness, prevention, and timely screening. 

Medical experts recommend that people at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. Anyone with a family history or other risk factors should ask their clinician whether screening should start earlier. 

Common symptoms of colorectal cancer can include abdominal pain, a change in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or persistent fatigue. Symptoms can have many causes, but Dr. Owsley said they should prompt a conversation with a clinician — especially if they don’t go away. 

For Jensen, the goal is simple: To keep showing up for the people he loves and the mountains he calls home. “I really try to stay active,” he said — a focus his care team supports, one three-week cycle at a time.

When 67-year-old Maureen Morgan considered scheduling a colon cancer screening last fall, she hesitated. She wasn’t eager to go through the preparation required for a colonoscopy, so she opted for an at home stool test instead.

That choice to be screened, she says, saved her life.

The test detected precancerous signs and led to a follow-up colonoscopy, where Intermountain Health doctors removed several small polyps. A larger one could not be removed in-office and required a larger procedure at Intermountain Health Good Samaritan Hospital. While surgeons were able to remove most of the mass, pathology later confirmed it was cancer.

“Obviously, when the big one turned out to be cancer, that was very scary,” Morgan said. “It was hard for me to tell my children. They are my support system.”

Morgan was soon referred to Dr. Adam Bulter, chief and medical director of surgery at Intermountain Health Good Samaritan Hospital. Imaging brought relief — the cancer had not spread, and surgery was scheduled.

Dr. Bulter performed the operation using a minimally invasive surgery using the latest robotic technology that allows surgeons to remove her appendix, 21 lymphnnodes, and three feet of her colon.

“Her story is a powerful reminder of why screening matters, especially during Colon Cancer Awareness Month,” Bulter said. “Finding cancer early gives us more options, including minimally invasive robotic surgery, which reduces trauma to the body and helps patients recover more quickly. Maureen truly benefited from that approach.”

Despite the extent of the operation, Morgan said the recovery was far easier than she imagined.

“I can’t really say it was horrible pain,” she said. “I only needed one oxycodone in the hospital. After that, it was just an over the counter pain reliever.”

A self-described workaholic, Morgan was back to working a few hours from home shortly after returning from the hospital and has since transitioned back to working in the office. She continues to regain stamina and takes regular walks with her daughter and their dogs.

Her family, she said, played a vital role in her healing.

“My older daughter camped out here for two weeks,” Morgan said. “She knows her mama will try to do things she shouldn’t do. They were amazing, making sure I took my medicine and was eating enough.”

Morgan says her care team also made a tremendous difference.

“Dr. Bulter was amazing. My caregivers in the hospital were great,” she said. “I feel very blessed. I thank my family and thank the Lord that I’m still here.”

As part of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, Morgan hopes her story encourages others not to delay screening. Current guidelines recommend beginning routine screening at age 45.

“Just get screened,” she said. “Do an at home test or go for the colonoscopy. That few hours of discomfort could be worth your life. Get tested early and act quickly. Don’t let it sit.”

The RESEP (Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program) clinic from St. George Regional Hospital will be holding public informational meetings in several Utah cities on March 18^th, 19^th, 20^th, 21^st and 24^th. These meetings are to inform the public about the reinstatement and expansion of the RECA program, what areas now qualify and to give applications.

This is a free service. Come receive information regarding what new areas now qualify to apply for the RECA compensation as well as the new increased compensation amount. If you have called asking for an application to be sent and they have not been able to call you back, applications will be available. The online portal will also be discussed. If you are ready to submit your application and would like it reviewed, they will be doing application reviews one hour before and one hour after the Provo, Ogden, Price and St. George meetings. Unfortunately, if you have already been compensated by the RECA program, the law does not allow you to apply for any additional money.

The term “Downwinder” is used to describe people who were exposed to radioactive fallout in Arizona, Nevada and Utah, Idaho and New Mexico during the nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site.  Local residents, and their families, are encouraged to come have their questions answered about the program.

Meetings will be held at the following dates and sites:

Wednesday, March 18, 2026    Provo/Orem—Utah Valley Hospital, Sorenson Tower, Bldg 4,               

                                                                         2nd Floor, Classrooms 1, 2 & 3, 395 Cougar Blvd, 2:00-3:00pm

Thursday, March 19, 2026        Ogden—McKay-Dee Hospital, Thomas Dee Auditorium,

                                                                           4401 Harrison Blvd, 5:00-6:00pm

Friday, March 20, 2026              Moab—Grand County Library, 257 E. Center St, 2:00-3:00pm

Saturday, March 21, 2026         Price—Active Re-Entry Independent Living Center, 10 South   

                                                                          Fairgrounds Rd., 12:00-1:00 pm

Tuesday, March 24, 2026           St. George—Cancer Center, Bldg 7, Classrooms A, B & C,

                                                                          600 South Medical Center Dr, 5:00-6:00pm

For questions, please call 435-251-4760.

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Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Hospital celebrated the opening of its newest cancer center, a major expansion that strengthens access to coordinated, comprehensive oncology care for patients throughout Colorado.  

Designed over the past year with significant patient feedback, the new center reflects Intermountain Health’s commitment to creating a more comfortable and intuitive experience for individuals navigating cancer treatment.  

The space brings all major oncology services into one central location and offers expanded treatment capacity, updated clinical technology, and a layout tailored to patient needs.  

“Our goal was to build a space that reflects the dignity, comfort, and coordinated support every patient deserves,” said Sarah Pike, oncology service line director at Intermountain Health Saint Joseph Hospital. “By expanding our treatment areas and bringing services together in one place, we’re able to provide more seamless, patient-centered care.”  

As the design came together, Pike said the team focused heavily on how patients move through their care.  

“This center was designed with our patients’ voices at the heart of every decision. Every design choice, from the layout of the infusion bays to the flow between clinics, was made to reduce stress and improve comfort,” she said. “Cancer care is complex, but the experience shouldn’t feel overwhelming.”  

The new space includes two treatment and procedure rooms, eight additional infusion bays with private and semiprivate options, an expanded rehabilitation gym, and an additional mammography machine. The breast surgery clinic has also moved to the same floor as breast imaging, creating a more efficient and coordinated experience for breast cancer patients.  

The celebration also included Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera and leaders from the Colorado Cancer Coalition and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, who introduced Colorado’s new Five-Year Cancer Plan. 

“This facility represents hope, innovation, and the very best in cancer care for our community,” said Colorado Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera. “Addressing cancer is deeply personal to me, as I have been diagnosed with four different cancers, on four separate occasions, so I understand firsthand the challenges that patients and their loved ones face medically, financially, emotionally and spiritually.”  

Intermountain Health clinical leaders highlighted how the expanded center will strengthen cancer care across the region.  

“This is an exciting moment, not just for our team, but for every patient and family we serve,” said Kevin Dryanski, oncology service line director for Intermountain Health’s Peaks Region in Colorado. “Our mission is to continually elevate the standard of care. By expanding our space and capabilities, we’re better equipped than ever to support patients throughout every stage of their cancer journey.”  

Dryanski added that the new center positions Saint Joseph Hospital as a strong partner in statewide cancer care.  

“This expansion strengthens cancer care not just at Saint Joseph Hospital, but across the entire Intermountain Health region,” he said. “It allows us to meet growing demand while improving coordination across our oncology programs.”  The new cancer center began seeing patients Feb. 24. 

Note for Media: Additional video and images available upon request.

The RESEP (Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program) clinic at Intermountain  St. George Regional Hospital will be holding public informational meetings in several Utah cities on October 13, 16, 17, and 18, 2025. 

These meetings are to inform the public about the reinstatement and expansion of the RECA program and what areas now qualify.

The public is invited to attend abd receive information regarding what new areas now qualify to apply for the RECA compensation as well as the new increased compensation amount. 

If people have called asking for an application to be sent and they have not been able to call you back, applications will be available.

 Unfortunately, for those who have already been compensated by the RECA program, the law does not allow them to apply for any additional money.

The term “Downwinder” is used to describe people who were exposed to radioactive fallout in Arizona, Nevada and Utah, Idaho and New Mexico during the nuclear testing at the Nevada Test Site. 

Local residents, and their families, are encouraged to come have their questions answered about the program.

Meetings will be held at the following dates and sites:

 For additional questions, please call 435-251-4760. 

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La atención oncológica innovadora de Intermountain Cedar City Hospital está ayudando a un hombre del sur de Utah a superar un diagnóstico de cáncer y le da esperanzas para el futuro.

El habitante de New Harmony, Gary Hugie, de 88 años, conoce de primera mano cómo este método puede marcar una diferencia.

Hugie se niega a que el diagnóstico de cáncer de colon e hígado lo desaliente de alcanzar sus metas para la vida. Él tiene en la mira llegar a los 100 años, acampar más a menudo y valorar el tiempo con su familia.

La determinación inquebrantable de Hugie está alimentada por su optimismo sobre los tratamientos oncológicos que recibe, que incluyen una terapia por bomba de infusión en la arteria hepática (HAIP, por sus siglas en inglés), un tratamiento oncológico innovador que recibe en la actualidad en el centro oncológico Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center.

La HAIP administra quimioterapia de alta potencia directamente en las células cancerígenas mientras reduce la exposición del resto del cuerpo.

La bomba Intera 3000 HAI, la única bomba implantable aprobada por la Administración de Alimentos y Medicamentos (FDA, por sus siglas en inglés), administra la quimioterapia directo en la arteria hepática para garantizar un tratamiento dirigido contra los tumores del hígado.

La bomba se implanta por vía quirúrgica debajo de la piel en la zona baja del abdomen y se alimenta del calor corporal en lugar de baterías, lo que permite la administración continua del medicamento sin falla mecánica.

“En algunos casos, la HAIP puede abrir la puerta a oportunidades para las terapias definitivas como la cirugía, al tiempo que puede permitir a los pacientes mantener una mejor calidad de vida con menos dependencia de la quimioterapia sistémica”, explicó Bryce Perkins, DO, un especialista en cáncer de Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center.

El Dr. Perkins introdujo a Hugie a la HAIP después de que el cáncer de colon se propagara al hígado.

La quimioterapia ya le había pasado afectado mientras él luchaba contra la debilidad y el dolor que suele acompañar a la quimioterapia contra el cáncer de hígado. El Dr. Perkins creyó que Hugie podría beneficiarse de la mejor calidad de vida que podría ofrecerle la bomba hepática con su tipo de diagnóstico.

En la actualidad, Hugie es el único paciente del sur de Utah con una bomba Intera 3000 HAI que está recibiendo tratamiento.

La experiencia de utilizar este tipo de tratamiento en Cedar City para un paciente de 88 años es un testamento de resiliencia y dedicación.

Se necesitó la colaboración de los empleados de Intermountain Cedar City Hospital, un paciente con espíritu luchador, una familia cariñosa y el trabajo innovador de los empleados de dos establecimientos de Intermountain Health para hacer de este tratamiento una realidad.

Este tratamiento innovador comenzó con personal médico de Intermountain colaborando desde diferentes partes del estado.

El Dr. Perkins es uno de los pocos oncólogos de Intermountain en Utah con la experiencia en implantación de dispositivos HAIP. Trabajó de cerca con Ivan Zendejas, MD, de Intermountain Medical Center en Murray, Utah, para determinar si el paciente cumplía con los requisitos para una HAIP.

El Dr. Zendejas llevó a cabo la cirugía inicial para implantar la bomba en Intermountain Medical Center y el Dr. Perkins pudo continuar el tratamiento en Cedar City, cerca del hogar de Hugie.

Antes de ofrecer esta opción de terapia HAIP, el Dr. Perkins capacitó al equipo oncológico de Intermountain Health Cedar City Cancer Center.

"El personal tuvo que pasar por un proceso extenso de preparación acerca de los calendarios de dosis, la importancia absoluta de los intervalos en el seguimiento e, incluso, la manera de acceder al puerto en un lugar muy poco usual”, indicó el Dr. Perkins. 

Afortunadamente, el Dr. Perkins sabía que los empleados de Intermountain estaban ansiosos por aprender para garantizar la mejor atención para los pacientes locales.

"Nuestro equipo aquí está entusiasmado por dar a los pacientes lo que necesitan para tener éxito, y comenzamos con la capacitación para ayudar a los pacientes que tienen estas bombas”, añadió.

El apoyo para Hugie en el tratamiento comenzó con su familia. Recibió una ayuda extraordinaria de parte de su bella esposa, Dorothy, de 67 años, y sus cinco hijos.

Desde el momento en que comenzó a sentirse mal en un viaje de campamento tras el cual recibió su diagnóstico, pasando por la cirugía de colon, la quimioterapia y las citas médicas, todos han estado al lado de su padre, viéndolo luchar esta batalla.

Después de que le quitaran varias pulgadas de colon durante la cirugía, el cáncer se propagó hasta el hígado y se dificultó la quimioterapia.

“Estaba generándole algunos efectos secundarios graves, así que fue entonces cuando decidimos que la bomba podría ser la alternativa”, dijo Darsena Meeder, hija de Hugie.

Hugie contó que recibir sus tratamientos cerca de casa cada dos semanas marcó toda la diferencia para la decisión de continuar recibiendo estos tratamientos que alteran la vida.

Hugie ha visto una mejoría en su calidad de vida y presenta menos efectos secundarios graves. La HAIP también sirvió para controlar el crecimiento del cáncer en el hígado.

Si bien Hugie sabe que es posible que deba regresar a una quimioterapia más fuerte como parte de este plan de tratamiento, sigue estando agradecido por la oportunidad de tener estos momentos para dedicarse a sus objetivos.

“Agradezco al Dr. Perkins y todo su personal en Intermountain Health por el trabajo maravilloso que están haciendo”, dijo Hugie.

El Dr. Perkins, junto con el equipo de oncología de Intermountain Cedar City Center y sus compañeros en Intermountain Medical Center han estado buscando renovar la esperanza de los pacientes, como el uso de HAIP para representar un avance significativo en el tratamiento oncológico.

“En términos generales, nos enfocamos en mantener a los pacientes seguros y sanos, y a la vez cerca de su hogar”, mencionó el Dr. Perkins.

El Dr. Perkins, junto con su equipo oncológico de Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center, y sus colegas en Intermountain Medical Center de Murray están dando nueva esperanza para los pacientes oncológicos.

Lo que impulsa su trabajo es ayudar a los pacientes con cáncer, como Hugie, a alcanzar sus metas. Esperan ver a Hugie alcanzar su objetivo de vivir hasta los 100 años.

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Innovative cancer care at Intermountain Cedar City Hospital is helping a Southern Utah man overcome a cancer diagnosis and providing hope for the future.

New Harmony resident, Gary Hugie, 88-years-old, knows first-hand how this approach can make a difference.

Hugie refuses to let a colon and liver cancer diagnosis discourage him from reaching his life goals. Hugie has his sights set on reaching 100 years of age, camping more often, and cherishing time with his family.

Hugie’s unwavering determination is fueled by his optimism of his cancer treatments, which includes Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump Therapy (HAIP) — an innovative cancer treatment that he is currently receiving at the Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center.

The HAIP delivers high-potency chemotherapy directly to cancer cells while minimizing exposure to the rest of the body.

The Intera 3000 HAI Pump, the only FDA-approved implantable pump for HAI therapy, delivers chemotherapy directly into the hepatic artery, ensuring targeted treatment to liver tumors.

The pump is surgically implanted below the skin in the lower abdomen, and is powered by body heat rather than batteries, allowing continuous drug delivery without mechanical failure.

“In some cases, HAIP may open opportunities for definitive therapies like surgery, all while allowing patients to maintain a better quality of life with reduced reliance on systemic chemotherapy,” said Bryce Perkins, DO, a cancer specialist at the Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center.

Dr. Perkins introduced Hugie to HAIP after his colon cancer had spread to his liver.

The chemotherapy had taken a toll as he fought the weakness and pain that often accompanies liver cancer chemotherapy. Dr. Perkins felt he could benefit from the improved quality of life a Hepatic Pump could provide with his type of diagnosis.

Hugie is now the only patient in Southern Utah with an Intera 3000 HAI pump who is currently receiving treatment.

The journey to utilizing this type of treatment in Cedar City on an 88-year-old patient is a testament to resilience and dedication.

It took the collaboration of caregivers at Intermountain Cedar City Hospital, a patient with a fighting spirit, a caring family and innovative work by caregivers at two Intermountain Health facilities to make this treatment a reality.

This innovative treatment started with Intermountain’s providers collaborating across the state.

Dr. Perkins is one of the few Intermountain oncologists in Utah with experience in implementing the HAIP device. He worked closely with Ivan Zendejas, MD, from Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah, to determine HAIP patients’ eligibility.

Dr. Zendejas performed Hugie’s initial surgery to implant the pump at Intermountain Medical Center – and Dr. Perkins was able to continue the treatment in Cedar City, close to Hugie’s home.

Before offering this option for HAIP Therapy, Dr. Perkins trained the Intermountain Health Cedar City Cancer Center oncology team.

"Our staff had to go through an extensive onboarding process from dosing schedules to the absolute importance of follow-up intervals and even accessing the port in a less-than-usual location," Dr. Perkins said. 

Fortunately, Dr. Perkins knew Intermountain caregiver were eager to learn to ensure the best care for local patients.

"Our team here is enthusiastic about giving our patients what they need to succeed, and we jumped into the training to get pump patients up and going," he said.

Support for Hugie’s journey started with his family. He had tremendous support from his beautiful wife, Dorothy, of 67 years and his five kids.

From the moment he started feeling unwell on a camping trip that led to his diagnosis, through colon surgery, chemotherapy and appointments, they have all been by their father’s side, watching him fight this battle.

After his colon surgery removed several inches of his colon, the cancer spread to his liver, and chemotherapy became difficult.

“It was creating some major side effects for him, so that's when we decided the pump might be the alternative,” said Darsena Meeder, Hugie’s daughter.

Hugie said having his treatments close to home, every two weeks, has made all the difference in his decision to continue receiving this life-altering treatments.

Hugie has seen an improved quality of life and experiences fewer harsh side effects. The HAIP has also helped control the growth of the cancer in his liver.

While Hugie knows that he may have to return to some stronger chemotherapy as part of his treatment plan, he remains grateful for the opportunity to have these moments to pursue his goals.

“I appreciate Dr. Perkins and all of his staff at Intermountain Health for the wonderful job they are doing,” Hugie said.  

Dr. Perkins, along with his oncology team at Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center and his peers at Intermountain Medical Center, have been looking to provide new hope for patients, such as HAIP that represent a significant advancement in cancer care.

"Overall, we aim to keep patients safe and healthy while keeping them close to home," Dr. Perkins said.

Dr. Perkins, along with his oncology team at Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center, and his colleagues at Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, are providing new hope for cancer patients.

Their work is driven by helping cancer patients, like Hugie, reach their goals and they hope to see Hugie reach his goal of living to 100 years. 

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Patients in a remote area of Fairbanks, Alaska, now have broader access to greatly needed cancer services due to a groundbreaking telehealth partnership between Intermountain Health and the Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC).

The Telehealth Oncology collaboration brings comprehensive cancer care closer to home for Alaska Native populations across a vast and remote region.

Tanana Chiefs Conference is an Alaska Native non-profit corporation that provides health and social services to more than 20,000 Alaska Natives and American Indians, many of whom live in small, remote villages spread across 235,000 square miles of Interior Alaska—an area nearly the size of Texas.

The TeleOncology partnership with Intermountain Health is designed to reduce travel time and expenses, allowing many patients to remain in their communities during cancer treatment and receive the best possible treatment and comprehensive cancer care.

After initial in-person oncology treatments in Fairbanks, many patients can continue follow-up care remotely, including some lab monitoring and telehealth consultations.

“Our partnership with Intermountain Health has created much needed access and resulted in reduced barriers to care for many Alaska Native patients challenged with cancer and hematologic conditions. Alaska is quite remote, and medical specialties can often be bottlenecked,” said Angie Lucien, PA-C, physician associate and team lead for Tanana Chiefs Conference’s Cancer and Infusion Center. “Working with our dedicated Oncologist Dr. Rupard, we have found an accessible, compassionate, culturally competent provider. This program is truly tailored to our patient population’s unique needs, who desire care closer to home.”

Fairbanks, Alaska, serves as a central hub for interior tribal regions, making it an ideal location for this regional care model.

Historically, patients in the Fairbanks region have faced significant barriers to accessing cancer care, often traveling more than 350 miles to Anchorage for treatment. In collaboration with Intermountain Health’s TeleOncology program, patients can receive chemotherapy, infusion therapy, lab work, imaging, and support services locally in Fairbanks.

“Travel was too much for some patients, or it was too cumbersome to figure it all out,” said Kimberlee Rowett, TeleOncology Clinical Manager for Intermountain Health. “Fortunately, our collaboration provides that necessary service for patients. What an honor it is to be a part of that.”

This collaboration will also benefit healthcare workers who have had to travel long distances to provide care.

“For a healthy individual, traveling out to the remote village locations can often be challenging. When we look at our patients going through cancer treatment, our elder patients, finding a way to limit this challenging travel and providing care closer to home is a top priority,” said Kelly McDevitt, nurse care manager of Cancer Care and Infusion Center for Tanana Chiefs Conference. “Our patients are not boarding large commercial airplanes; they are often times getting on small 4- and 6-seater planes and traveling to and from the runways on 4 wheelers and snow machines in the winter.”

The TeleOncology program has provided patients in the area with individualized care and regional support during their cancer journeys.

TeleOncology services are now made accessible to Alaska Native patients in rural communities with further access to pharmacy and oncology services. The program is set up to allow for growth and possible service expansions in the future.

Erik Rupard, MD, is an Intermountain Health hematology and oncology physician. He helps provide telehealth hematology/oncology consultation and treatment to the Native Alaskan community in Fairbanks.

He and the TCC team work together to provide additional insight and diagnostics to patients.  

“It has been wonderful getting to know this great group of patients who have shared their experiences and their culture with me,” said Dr. Rupard. “Some of these patients would have otherwise had to travel 350+ miles to Anchorage to receive care, and many have expressed their appreciation that these services are available more locally for them. It has been very gratifying.”

“The population we serve has unique needs and Dr. Rupard really works hard to understand our patients and give them the care that they're needing in that moment, whether it be some sort of emotional support and reassurance, or focusing more toward treatment and what that looks like for each individual. He also serves as a mentor for our developing team and offers purposeful education to our providers and nursing at every opportunity,” said Lucien.

Dr. Rupard has found that the positive impact of the TCC and Intermountain Health partnership has brought greater resources to patients, and additional support to caregivers as they help more patients.  

“In just four months, we’ve diagnosed and treated a dozen cancers or blood disorders, ranging from the benign, like iron deficiency anemia, to the malignant, like Stage 4 prostate cancer or breast cancer,” Dr. Rupard said. “This partnership is a game-changer for our community.”

While not every patient will be served by Dr. Rupard as the primarily oncologist due to community limitations (such as diagnostic and treatment options), this partnership has reduced the burden of travel for a great deal of patients and marks a significant step forward in reducing the burden of cancer.

“I occasionally had patients ask, ‘Hey, is it okay if I do this thing, if I go on this trip, even though I'm on treatment?’ And my answer is always the same. ‘We are doing all this, putting you through all these things, so that you can live your life and enjoy your life and be with your family and take the trips and take part in that event that is so important to you’,” said Dr. Rupard.

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La clínica de Compensación por Exposición a la Radiación y Programa educativo (RESEP, por sus siglas en inglés) del St. George Regional Hospital realizará reuniones informativas públicas en varias ciudades del sur de Utah los días 27 y 28 de junio de 2025. Estas reuniones tienen el propósito de informar al público sobre el estado del programa de Compensación por Exposición a la Radiación (RECA, por sus siglas en inglés) y los proyectos de ley pendientes que han sido presentados al Congreso.

Al año de la expiración de RECA, acuda a recibir información sobre la situación del programa y los posibles proyectos de ley para conseguir su reincorporación o ampliación. Le brindarán información general sobre la historia del RECA y sobre lo que el Congreso está haciendo para su reincorporación. Si usted o alguien que conoce tiene cáncer y hubiera calificado para el RECA antes del vencimiento, venga y brinde su información de contacto con el fin de que la clínica de Downwinder pueda contactarse con usted cuando la ley RECA sea aprobada y acepte solicitudes de nuevo.

El término “Downwinder” se utiliza para describir a las más de 60,000 (sesenta mil) personas que estuvieron expuestas a la lluvia radiactiva en Arizona, Nevada y Utah durante las pruebas nucleares en el sitio de pruebas de Nevada.  Se recomienda a los residentes locales y a sus familias que vayan a obtener respuestas sobre el programa y su estado.

Las reuniones se realizarán en las siguientes fechas y lugares:

  Viernes 27 de junio de 2025   en la Biblioteca Pública de Kanab, 374 North Main Street, de 1:00 a 2:00 p. m.

  Viernes 27 de junio de 2025   en la Oficina municipal de Panguitch, 25 South 200 East de 4:00 a 5:00 p. m.

  Sábado 28 de junio de 2025,   Richfield, Snow College Admin Rm 147 A&D, de 10:00 a 11:00 a. m.

  Sábado 28 de junio de 2025   Salina, North Sevier Recreation Center, 373 W. 400 N, 2:00 a 3:00 p. m.

Si tiene preguntas, comuníquese al 435-251-4760.

EL DISTANCIAMIENTO SOCIAL Y LA MASCARILLA SON OPCIONALES

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NOTA PARA LOS MEDIOS: Imágenes y vídeos disponibles a pedido. 
 

Intermountain Health ofrece ahora una expansión pionera a nivel nacional de la terapia con células CAR-T, acercando tratamientos oncológicos de vanguardia a los pacientes del sur de Utah y Nevada.

La nueva clínica satélite de terapia con células CAR-T de Intermountain en St. George marca un logro significativo en la mejora del acceso a terapias con células CAR-T aprobadas por la Administración de alimentos y medicamentos (FDA, por sus siglas en inglés), y es la primera vez en Estado Unidos en que la recolección de células CAR-T está disponible en un sitio remoto, lejos de un centro de tratamiento primario.

Antes de la expansión del programa de la terapia con células CAR-T, los pacientes del suroeste de Utah, Nevada y más allá, tenían que viajar cientos de millas al LDS Hospital en Salt Lake City para someterse a la recolección, el trasplante y el seguimiento médico.

Esta innovadora expansión de la recolección de células madre y los procedimientos de recolección de células CAR-T en el St. George Cancer Center de Intermountain Health, proporciona opciones de tratamiento oncológico avanzado más cerca de los pacientes de la región.

“La expansión de la terapia con células CAR-T al St. George Regional Hospital de Intermountain es prueba de nuestro compromiso en proporcionar tratamiento oncológico innovador y accesible”, dijo Brad Hunter, MD, oncólogo médico y director del programa de terapia con células CAR-T del LDS Hospital de Intermountain. “Esta clínica mejorará significativamente la calidad del cuidado médico de los pacientes del sur de Utah y más allá de las fronteras de nuestro estado, ofreciéndoles esperanza y sanación sin la necesidad de viajar largas distancias”.

La terapia con células CAR-T es un tipo de inmunoterapia que utiliza el poder del sistema inmunológico del propio paciente para luchar contra el cáncer al reprogramar genéticamente las células T para atacar y destruir las células cancerígenas.

“Esta terapia ha mostrado un éxito sin igual al tratar ciertos tipos de leucemia y el linfoma no Hodgkin y estamos agradecidos por la oportunidad de hacerla más accesible”, dijo el Dr. Hunter.

Este proceso está personalizado a cada paciente oncológico de manera individual y comprende la recolección de las células inmunológicas, o células T, las cuales se envían a una ubicación diferente donde son modificadas.

Entre dos o tres semanas después, el paciente viaja al LDS Hospital de Intermountain para el trasplante de las células reprogramadas. Después, las nuevas células atacan y matan las células cancerígenas al adherirse a las proteínas específicas o antígenos de las células cancerígenas.

El paciente está bajo observación para confirmar que el tratamiento está funcionando y, entonces, se le da el alta con citas de seguimiento programadas cerca de su casa.

Jacqueline, de 68 años, oriunda de Las Vegas, Nevada, recibió terapia por células CAR-T para tratar el linfoma no Hodgkin que padecía en el LDS Hospital de Intermountain y dice que le salvó la vida.

“Fue algo milagroso”, dijo Jacqueline. “Al mirar a la parte posterior de mi garganta podía ver los nódulos linfáticos muy inflamados, y luego, en cuestión de dos semanas de tratamiento, de repente, desaparecieron. Hasta me hicieron escáneres y todo había desaparecido”.

Jacqueline y su esposo tenían que viajar a Salt Lake en numerosas ocasiones y quedarse por un mes; dicen que la nueva clínica satélite de terapia con células CAR-T en St. George les ahorrará millas y que será bueno para que futuros pacientes oncológicos reciban tratamiento “a la vuelta de la esquina”.

En la actualidad, la terapia con células CAR-T está aprobada por la FDA para pacientes que tienen una serie de cánceres hematológicos, incluyendo la leucemia linfoblástica (ALL, por sus siglas en inglés), linfomas de células B y mieloma múltiple.

Para obtener más información acerca del programa y los servicios de terapia con células CAR-T de Intermountain Health, visite Intermountain Health.

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Intermountain Health is now offering a national first-of-its kind expansion of CAR-T Cell Therapy, bringing cutting-edge cancer care closer to patients in Southern Utah and Nevada.

Intermountain’s new CAR-T Cell satellite clinic in St. George marks a significant milestone to improve access to FDA approved CAR T-cell therapies at a regional clinic – and is the first time in the United States that CAR T-Cell collections are now available at a remote site away from a primary treatment center.

Before expanding the CAR T-Cell therapy program, patients in southwest Utah, Nevada and beyond, had to travel hundreds of miles to Intermountain LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City for collection, transplant, and follow-up care.

This innovative expansion of stem cell collection and CAR T-cell collection procedures at the Intermountain Health St. George Cancer Center provides advanced cancer treatment options closer to home for patients in the region.

"Expanding CAR-T Cell Therapy to Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is a testament to our commitment to providing accessible, state-of-the-art cancer treatment,” said Brad Hunter, MD, medical oncologist and director of the CAR T-cell program at Intermountain LDS Hospital. “This clinic will significantly enhance the quality of care for patients in Southern Utah and beyond our state boarders, offering them hope and healing without the need to travel long distances."

CAR-T Cell Therapy is a form of immunotherapy that harnesses the power of a patient's own immune system to fight cancer by genetically reprogramming T-cells to target and destroy cancer cells.

“This therapy has shown remarkable success in treating certain types of leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma and we’re grateful for the chance to make it more accessible,” said Dr. Hunter.

This process is customized to each individual oncology patient and involves collecting the patient’s immune cells or T cells, which are then sent to a different location and re-engineered.

About two to three weeks later the patient will travel to Intermountain LDS Hospital for the re-programmed cells to be transplanted back to the patient. The new cells then target and kill the cancer cells by binding to the specific proteins or antigens on the cancer cells.

The patient is observed to confirm the treatment is working and then sent home, with follow up appoints close to home.

Jacqueline, 68, from Las Vegas, Nevada, received CAR-T therapy for her Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma last year at Intermountain LDS Hospital and says it saved her life.

“It was really miraculous,” said Jacqueline. “I could see the back of my throat and see the lymph nodes, so swelled up and then within two weeks of the treatment, all of a sudden, they were just gone. They even scanned me and everything was gone.”

Jacqueline and her husband had to travel to Salt Lake numerous times and stay for a month, they say the new Intermountain Health St. George CAR-T Cell satellite clinic will save some miles and will be nice for future cancer patients to have treatment, “just down the street.”

CAR T-Cell therapy is currently FDA approved for patients who have a variety of hematologic cancers, including acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), B-cell lymphomas, and multiple myeloma.

For more information about the Intermountain Health CAR-T Cell Therapy program and services, go to Intermountain Health.

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NOTE TO MEDIA: Images and video available upon request.

Marcy Smith, of Glendive, Montana, is busy. 

From her work as a speech paraprofessional in Glendive public schools, following her son’s many sporting activities, and caring for two young foster children, she has just enough time to make sure she is caring for her own health. 

Her normal routine took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer last year. 

In February, her medical provider insisted that she undergo a screening mammogram. 

"I remember thinking, 'I don't have time for this,' but my doctor didn't give me a choice," Smith joked. 

The screening mammogram revealed a lump, and further tests confirmed it was cancer. 

By May, Smith had undergone surgery to remove the lump and was advised to start chemotherapy, followed by radiation therapy. 

Living in rural eastern Montana, Smith faced the prospect of traveling long distances for her treatments. 

If she chose to travel more than 200 miles to Billings, the daily radiation treatments would require her to potentially spend weeks away from her family. These barriers made her uneasy. 

Fortunately, Smith’s provider informed her about the new Intermountain Health Holy Rosary Cancer Center in Miles City that was now providing radiation oncology treatments.  

"From the very moment I spoke with my radiation doctor in Miles City, I was wowed. The facility was brand new and very comfortable. Cancer stuff is scary, but this place made it a really good experience," Smith shared. 

The convenience of the cancer center was “a game changer" for Smith, she said.

An hour drive from Glendive, she was able to work her radiation treatments into her work and family schedules. 

"They fit me in during the afternoon. I was able to leave my last student at 3 o'clock, make it to Miles City by 4 o'clock, and be back home by dinner time," she said. 

“We are incredibly proud of the strides we've made in expanding our cancer services,” said Katie Donnelly,” director of oncology care at Intermountain Health Holy Rosary Hospital. “Being able to offer comprehensive cancer care at Holy Rosary means patients like Marcy no longer have to travel hours for these treatments. Seeing the difference it makes, in the lives of our patients and their families, is what inspires us every day.”  

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In September, Holy Rosary opened the new cancer center, made possible with a $6-million grant from Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.  The new state-of-the-art facility now provides radiation oncology care in addition to the medical oncology, surgical oncology, and support services that Holy Rosary has provided for several decades. It is the only comprehensive cancer center in a 125-mile radius. Annually, Holy Rosary provides more than 1,500 infusion treatments and has more than 500 provider visits with patients. 

“With the opening of the new cancer center and now offering radiation oncology services at Holy Rosary, we will be able to serve even more patients, creating equitable cancer care for the region and our rural communities.” shared Ben Uhlich, president and chief nursing officer of Holy Rosary Hospital. 

Smith’s commitment to her family was evident throughout her treatment journey. Despite the challenges, she made sure to be there for her children and grandchildren. Her foster daughter, 5 and in kindergarten, often accompanied her to the cancer center, providing company and support.  

The support from her community also played a crucial role. "I have a very supportive community. People offered to help, sent letters of support, and provided words of encouragement," Smith says. This support network, combined with the accessible care at the Holy Rosary cancer center, made a significant difference in her journey. 

Smith's story highlights the importance of having access to critical cancer care in rural areas. Care close to home eases the economic and physical burden of travel and stress for patients like Smith. "It's such a relief to have a new center, new equipment, and very knowledgeable doctors from a great group," she said. 

Smith acknowledges the profound impact her cancer has had on her family. "It was harder on my family than it was on me. They didn’t have any control over what happened; they just sort of watched it go on. When they knew I was going to Miles City for radiation, they felt much better," she said.  

As Smith looks forward to the future with determination, she remains committed to her family and community. "I'm going to watch my foster son graduate, my grandson start as quarterback, and all the big things my family will do," she said.   

Now finished with her treatment, Smith starts a new year with gratitude and cautious optimism, caring for her family and students.  She also wants women to understand and prioritize the importance of accessing preventative care, even during the busyness and commitments of daily life.

“Get your tests! Get your mammograms, get your colonoscopies,” said Smith. “Early detection is literally, lifesaving.” 

Intermountain Health Holy Rosary Hospital has opened a new, state-of-the-art cancer center with the support of a $6 million grant from The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust to better serve the needs of communities in eastern Montana. 

With the opening of the new 12,000-square-foot center, Holy Rosary now offers radiation oncology services in addition to medical and surgical oncology services to address the needs of cancer patients in rural eastern Montana. The project eliminates distance and access barriers to care for the people living in the region. Before opening the new center, patients needing radiation oncology treatment may have had to travel long distances to receive that care, potentially impacting their treatment plans and outcomes. The new center is the only comprehensive cancer center within a 125-mile radius. 

“Every year, our dedicated oncology team at Holy Rosary cares for patients through more than 1,500 infusion treatments and more than 500 provider visits, both onsite and through telehealth. As the number of patients we serve has grown year over year, we continue to grow our services to meet their needs,” shared Ben Uhlich, President and Chief Nursing Officer of Holy Rosary Hospital. “With the opening of this new cancer center and now offering radiation oncology services at Holy Rosary, we will be able to serve even more patients, creating equitable cancer care for the region and our rural communities.” 

“The opening of the cancer center marks a transformative milestone for patients and their families in eastern Montana facing cancer diagnoses,” said Walter Panzirer, a Trustee for the Helmsley Charitable Trust. “Helmsley is committed to improving access to health care services in rural America. This new cancer center eliminates the barrier of distance and allows patients to receive care close to home where they can be supported by family and friends.”  

The new center is built on the Holy Rosary campus in Miles City, connected to the hospital and all its services. The center is home to the region’s only medical linear accelerator, which delivers radiation treatments quickly and accurately. It has a patient and caregiver-centered design with several unique elements, including large windows in medical oncology and infusion treatment areas and courtyards for caregivers and patients to improve their experience. The new center adds additional chairs and stations in the infusion treatment areas and four dedicated exam rooms. 

Construction began on the project in spring 2023, and the $17 million project was completed in September. In addition to the generous funding from the Helmsley Charitable Trust, the project was funded through capital investments by Holy Rosary and Intermountain Health and the generous support of community members. 

Todavía se encuentra abierta y disponible la Intermountain Health’s Downwinders Clinic para asistir a aquellos de la comunidad que tienen preguntas sobre cómo las lluvias radiactivas de pruebas nucleares anteriores pueden impactar en ellos o en sus familias. 

La Intermountain Health’s Downwinders Clinic está ubicada en el Centro de cáncer del Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital y ha estado brindando educación y asistencia fundamentales sobre la Ley de compensaciones por exposición a la radiación (RECA, por sus siglas en inglés).

El estatuto federal de la RECA brindó compensación a las personas que calificaban y a sus familias con diagnósticos de algunos tipos de cáncer u otras enfermedades como resultado directo a la exposición de pruebas nucleares atmosféricas realizadas por el gobierno federal hace décadas.

La compensación de la RECA finalizó sin extensión el 10 de junio de 2024. Han existido distintas propuestas de ley en las que se debatieron en el Congreso para continuar o expandir el programa, pero, por ahora, el Departamento de Justicia de Estados Unidos no acepta solicitudes.

Rebecca Barlow, directora del proyecto para la Radiation Exposure Screening Clinic en el Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital, todavía se encuentra disponible para reunirse con las personas que reclaman y sus familias para debatir los requisitos, si se otorga una extensión o la ley de compensación nueva y extendida está aprobada.

“El Departamento de Justicia no puede aceptar solicitudes de RECA en este momento debido a que el programa caducó. Sin embargo, cualquiera que piense que hubiera calificado para el programa si todavía estuviera activo es bienvenido a llamarme para debatir qué podría estar haciendo mientras esperamos que la propuesta de ley comience nuevamente”, dijo Barlow. “También estamos dispuestos a brindar educación sobre pruebas de detección del cáncer y exámenes físicos para los interesados”.

Los tipos de cáncer que calificaron previamente en RECA incluyen (pero no leucemia linfocítica crónica), mieloma múltiple, linfomas (otro diferente Hodgkin), y los cánceres principales en la faringe, el intestino delgado, la glándula salival, el cerebro, el estómago, el tracto urinario/vejiga, el colon, la tiroides, el páncreas, la mama, el esófago, los ductos biliares, el hígado, la vesícula biliar, el pulmón y los ovarios. Sin embargo, es muy temprano para saber qué tipos de cáncer se incluirán en la ley cuando vuelva a instalarse, según Barlow.

Las personas pueden contactar a la Intermountain Downwinder’s Clinic llamando al 435-251-4760 y dejando un mensaje, Le devolverán la llamada lo antes posible.

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The Intermountain Health’s Downwinders Clinic is still open and available to assist those in the community who have questions about how radiation fallout from previous nuclear testing may have impacted them or their families.  

The Intermountain Downwinders Clinic is located in the Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital’s Cancer Center and has been providing vital education and assistance about the federal Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, or RECA.

The RECA federal statute provided compensation for qualifying people and their families who contracted certain cancers and/or other diseases as a direct result of their exposure to atmospheric nuclear testing performed by the federal government decades ago.

The RECA compensation ended without an extension on June 10, 2024. There have been different bills debated in Congress to continue and/or expand the program, but for now, the United States Department of Justice is not accepting applications.

Rebecca Barlow, project director for the Radiation Exposure Screening Clinic at Intermountain St. George Regional Hospital is still available to meet with claimants and their families to discuss qualifications, if an extension is granted, or the new, extended compensation act is passed.

“The Department of Justice cannot accept RECA applications at this time due to the expiration of the program. But anyone who thinks that they would have qualified for the program if it was still active, are welcome to call me to discuss what they could be doing while we wait for the bill to start again,” said Barlow. “We are also still open to do cancer screening education and a physical for downwinders.”

Cancers that previously qualified under RECA include leukemia (but not chronic lymphocytic leukemia), multiple myeloma, lymphomas (other than Hodgkin's), and primary cancers of the pharynx, small intestine, salivary gland, brain, stomach, urinary tract/bladder, colon, thyroid, pancreas, breast, esophagus, bile ducts, liver, gall bladder, lung, and ovary. However, it’s too early to know which cancers will be included in the law when it is reinstated, according to Barlow.

People can contact the Intermountain Downwinder’s Clinic by calling 435-251-4760 and leaving a message. Your call will be returned at the earliest opportunity.

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El Logan Regional Hospital de Intermountain está acercando la atención oncológica a más residentes de Cache Valley con una nueva y vanguardista ampliación del departamento de Radioterapia oncológica del Gossner Cancer Center, reconocido a nivel nacional.

Los cuidadores de cáncer, líderes clínicos, pacientes, donantes y líderes de la comunidad de Intermountain Health iniciaron oficialmente la nueva obra de ampliación el jueves 6 de junio. Está previsto que la construcción de la ampliación comience en el verano de 2024 y finalice en 2025.

Esta ampliación incluye espacio clínico y equipos adicionales para un programa de braquiterapia, un centro de tratamiento con isótopos radiactivos, un nuevo escáner de tomografía computarizada, un sistema de ultrasonidos de alta resolución en tiempo real y un nuevo acelerador lineal.

“La ampliación de 3717 pies cuadrados (345.32 metros cuadrados) del Centro de cáncer ha sido posible gracias a una generosa donación de la familia Gossner Foods y pondrá a disposición de más pacientes los servicios de radioterapia, con una mayor capacidad y más servicios que actualmente no se ofrecen en nuestra comunidad”, expresó Brandon McBride, presidente del Logan Regional Hospital de Intermountain. “Nuestra ampliación no solo beneficiará a los pacientes de Cache Valley, sino a los de todo el norte de Utah, Idaho, Montana y Wyoming. Nos convertiremos realmente en un Centro de cáncer regional”.

El año pasado, el Gossner Cancer Center trató a casi 2000 pacientes de oncología médica, administró 5000 tratamientos de quimioterapia, realizó 7000 citas en la clínica y 4500 citas de radioterapia, lo que representa el 75 % de la comunidad oncológica local.

“Creo que casi todo el mundo se ha visto afectado por el cáncer. Nos alegra poder ofrecer esto aquí, en Cache Valley, para que la gente no tenga que desplazarse, facilitándole las cosas en los peores momentos de su vida”, declaró John Gossner. “Estamos muy agradecidos con todos los que participan en este proyecto y han sacrificado sus vidas por algo tan importante como la atención del cáncer”.

“Con el creciente aumento de la población en Cache Valley, Intermountain Health está pensando en el futuro, sabiendo que el número de personas que necesitan atención oncológica también crecerá”, expresó Ryan Bair, MD, oncólogo especialista en radiación del Logan Regional Hospital de Intermountain. “Los tratamientos de vanguardia que podremos ofrecer cambiarán el panorama para nuestros pacientes, que no tendrán que viajar tan lejos”.

La atención integral del cáncer en el Gossner Cancer Center está dirigida por un equipo de oncólogos médicos y oncólogos especialistas en radiación.

Cada paciente que recibe tratamiento contra el cáncer también cuenta con el apoyo de un orientador de enfermería individual, un trabajador social, un dietista, un asesor financiero y otros equipos de apoyo a los cuidadores dentro de los servicios de oncología médica, radioterapia oncológica e infusión. 

El Gossner Cancer Center fue construido en 2019.

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Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital is bringing cancer care close to home for residents of Northern Utah with a new state-of-the-art, comprehensive, and personalized cancer center. 

Intermountain Cancer Center — McKay-Dee Hospital is located on the first floor of Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital in Ogden for easy access for cancer patients. 

It has increased its infusion bays for patient comfort from eight to 12 and chemotherapy infusion bays from 16 to 24 and brings several teams together for more collaborative patient care. Additionally, a new linear accelerator has been added and a compounding pharmacy is now adjacent to the infusion bays for easier access and faster treatment. 

This is the largest renovation project Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital has undergone since its opening in 2002. 

“The cancer center is designed to empower its patients and bring a feeling of home and hope no matter their treatment setting,” said Judy Williamson, president of Intermountain McKay-Dee Hospital. “We hope it will be a home where friends can strengthen and support one another during their cancer journey and bring people together in a fight to overcome cancer.” 

With a focus on personalized care at the cancer center, a team of oncologists, surgeons, and support staff all collaborate closely together to develop individualized and unique treatment plans for cancer patients with the goal of providing the best cancer care possible. 

A group of Intermountain Health cancer caregivers, clinical leaders, and patients helped officially open the cancer center today with a ceremonial bell ringing. 

The bell ringing signifies a triumphant celebration of patient accomplishment; sometimes it's persevering through uncertainty, conquering fear, enduring hardship, adversity and hanging on to hope. 

“As part of Intermountain Health’s comprehensive network of cancer services, this new cancer center will help a lot of people here in Ogden and Northern Utah,” said Eric D. Johnson, MD, medical oncologist for Intermountain Health. “This facility stands as a testament to our commitment to providing convenient cancer care close to home.” 

Colon cancer patient Gaylene Greener, 65, from Corrine, says the new center and enhanced services took her breath away. 

“When you come every week you want it to feel homey and look beautiful, not so chemical,” said Greener. “The new space has artwork, comfortable chairs, social spaces, and spaces for privacy, as well as the doctors nearby.” 

Greener says it’s a healing place where she feels loved and cared for and not a burden, she calls it a home away from home. 

For cancer patient, Jennifer N., 43, of Lander, Wyo., she says when the construction walls came down on the one-year anniversary of her breast cancer diagnosis, she stood there for a long time just taking in the beauty and art. 

“These are hallowed halls,” said Jennifer. “I may live 300 miles away, but this is where I want to be treated.” 

Meticulous design considerations were made by TSA Architects to ensure that the building itself contributed to the healing process. 

From quiet flooring and treatment areas that offer views of nature to private patient entrances, every detail was crafted to create a soothing and supportive atmosphere for those going through the most difficult times of their lives. 

The new cancer center was made possible by generous donations, including over $4 million in gifts and donations to the Intermountain Foundation to help fund the new center. 

The cancer center’s treatments and services include: cancer immunotherapy, cancer surgery, chemotherapy, biotherapy, radiation therapy, genetic counseling, genomic tumor sequencing, oncology social work, palliative and symptom management, nutrition services, speech therapy, fitness training, and functional physical training. 

For more information on the Intermountain Cancer Center — McKay-Dee Hospital, go here. 

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New state-of-the-art, comprehensive, and personalized cancer center comes to McKay-Dee Hospital.

El Hospital McKay-Dee de Intermountain permitirá que los residentes del norte de Utah puedan recibir atención contra el cáncer más cerca de su hogar gracias a un nuevo y moderno centro integral y personalizado contra el cáncer.

El Centro contra el cáncer del Hospital McKay-Dee de Intermountain se ubica en el primer piso del Hospital McKay-Dee de Intermountain en Ogden para que los pacientes con cáncer puedan acceder fácilmente. 

Ha aumentado sus salas de infusión de ocho a doce y sus salas de quimioterapia de 16 a 24 para que los pacientes tengan una mayor comodidad. Además, permite el encuentro de distintos equipos para lograr una atención del paciente más colaborativa. También se ha agregado un nuevo acelerador lineal y una farmacia de fórmulas magistrales adyacente a las salas de infusión, de forma que se pueda obtener un acceso más fácil y un tratamiento más rápido.

Se trata del proyecto de renovación más importante en el Hospital McKay-Dee de Intermountain desde su apertura en el año 2002.

"El centro para el cáncer se ha diseñado para empoderar a los pacientes y para brindarles un sentimiento hogareño y de esperanza, sin importar cuál sea su tratamiento", explicó Judy Williamson, presidenta del Hospital McKay-Dee de Intermountain. "Esperamos que se trate de un hogar en el que los amigos se puedan dar fuerza y apoyo entre ellos durante el transcurso de esta enfermedad, además de un espacio para acercar a las personas en su lucha para derrotar al cáncer".

El Centro para el cáncer pone el foco en una atención personalizada y cuenta con un equipo de oncólogos, cirujanos y personal de apoyo que trabajan en conjunto para desarrollar planes de tratamiento individuales y únicos con la meta de que cada paciente reciba la mejor atención posible contra el cáncer.

Un grupo de cuidadores, líderes clínicos y pacientes de cáncer de Intermountain Health ayudaron hoy en la apertura oficial del centro en una ceremonia inaugural con toque de campana.

El toque de la campana simboliza la celebración victoriosa de los logros del paciente; estos logros se refieren a veces a su perseverancia en tiempos de incertidumbre, al manejo del miedo, a la resistencia frente a las dificultades y la adversidad y a la capacidad de no perder la esperanza.

"Como parte de la red integral de servicios para el cáncer de Intermountain, este nuevo centro ayudará a muchas personas en Ogden y en el norte de Utah", expresó Eric D. Johnson, MD, médico oncólogo de Intermountain Health. "Esta instalación es una prueba de nuestro compromiso para brindar una atención contra el cáncer conveniente y cercana al hogar".

La paciente con cáncer de colon Gaylene Greener, 65, de Corrine, comentó que el nuevo centro y las nuevas mejoras en los servicios la tomaron realmente por sorpresa. 

"Cuando vienes cada semana quieres experimentar un sentimiento hogareño y lucir atractiva, no quieres pensar en toda la parte química"
dijo Greener. "El nuevo espacio cuenta con obras de artes, sillas más cómodas, espacios sociales y espacios privados, además de los médicos en las proximidades".

Greener comentó que se trata de un lugar de sanación en el que se siente querida y cuidada, y no como una carga. Lo describe como una casa lejos de casa.

La paciente con cáncer, Jennifer N., 43, de Lander, Wyo., comentó que cuando finalmente se tiraron abajo las paredes de la construcción en el aniversario de un año de su diagnóstico de cáncer de mama, permaneció mucho tiempo contemplando la belleza y el arte del lugar.

"Estas salas se sienten realmente como una bendición", dijo Jennifer. "Puede que viva a 300 millas de distancia, pero es aquí donde quiero recibir mi tratamiento".

Los arquitectos TSA tomaron decisiones de diseño muy meticulosas, de forma que el propio edificio pudiese ayudar también en el proceso de sanación. 

Desde suelos sobrios a áreas de tratamiento con vistas a la naturaleza o entradas privadas para los pacientes, cada detalle se consideró en detenimiento para crear un entorno reconfortante y de apoyo para aquellas personas que están atravesando el momento más difícil de su vida.

El nuevo centro para el cáncer fue posible gracias a generosas donaciones, incluyendo casi $4 millones en regalos y donaciones a la Fundación de Intermountain para ayudar a juntar fondos para el nuevo centro. 

Los tratamientos y servicios del centro para el cáncer incluyen: inmunoterapia para el cáncer, cirugía para el cáncer, quimioterapia, bioterapia, radioterapia, orientación genética, secuenciación del genoma del cáncer, trabajo social oncológico, gestión paliativa y de los síntomas, servicios de nutrición, terapia del habla, programa de entrenamiento físico y entrenamiento funcional físico. 

Para obtener más información sobre el Centro para el cáncer del Hospital McKay-Dee de Intermountain vaya aquí.

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