Chemotherapy and Medical Oncology

Why choose Saint Luke’s for chemotherapy and medical oncology?

Saint Luke’s Cancer Institute and Saint Luke’s hospitals across the metro are staffed by experienced medical oncologists who personalize your treatment for optimal results. They offer comprehensive care using the latest technology in a warm, caring environment. 

When you come to us for chemotherapy and medical oncology treatment, you can expect: 

• Expert team: Many of our oncologists are nationally recognized for their cancer expertise. Our teams have the skill and experience to treat all types of cancer, including the most complex types.
• Convenient care: You deserve expert oncology care that’s close to home. We offer outpatient infusion center locations across the Kansas City metro.
• Nurse navigator: Here, you’re never alone in your cancer care. We assign you a dedicated nurse navigator who coordinates your appointments and provides support at every step.
• Care and comfort: We take extra measures to ensure you’re comfortable during infusion treatments. Our compassionate medical oncology nurses and support staff provide you with warm blankets, snacks, and a calming experience at each visit.
• Clinical trials: Our physicians, researchers, and scientists participate in groundbreaking cancer research and clinical trials. As our patient, you have access to the newest medical oncology treatments before they’re widely available. 

What is chemotherapy and medical oncology?

Medical oncology is a cancer treatment that uses medications to destroy cancer cells or prevent them from spreading or growing. There are several types of medical oncology, but chemotherapy is the most well-known type. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, you may need chemotherapy alone or in combination with other treatments, such as radiation oncology.

Chemotherapy and medical oncology medications come in many different types and dosages. You may need a single medication or a combination of two or more drugs. Our medical oncologists have the skill and expertise to deliver a personalized medical oncology plan that’s best for you. We consider the cancer type and stage, your overall health, and your needs before creating your plan.

Your medical oncology treatment may come in the form of:

• Infusion: When you visit an infusion center, you receive your medications through an intravenous (IV) catheter (thin tube that goes into your vein).
• Injections: Medication given as a shot in your muscle.
• Intravesical therapy: Your provider puts a catheter directly into a part of your body to deliver medication, such as your bladder.
• Oral medication: Chemotherapy medications can be pills or liquids you swallow.
• Topical medications: Creams or gels you apply to your skin.

What types of medical oncology do we offer?

At Saint Luke’s Cancer Institute, our medical oncologists have extensive knowledge and experience, so you have access to the latest and best treatments.

Hundreds of medical oncology medications are available today. Each one works in a specific way and targets certain types of cancer.

In addition, more drugs are being created and tested through research and clinical trials. Our scientists and physicians lead and participate in research to gain knowledge of—and offer—these innovative treatments.

We offer the full range of medical oncology treatments, which include:

• Chemotherapy: Cancer-fighting drugs and other substances to halt abnormal cell growth, including cancer cells.
• Hormone therapy: A treatment that can slow or stop cancers that use hormones to grow.
• Immunotherapy: These treatments harness your own immune system to attack or destroy cancer cells.
• Targeted drug therapy: This type of treatment uses medicines that zero in on the specific changes in cancer cells or in nearby tissues that cause the cancer to grow and spread.

How can I manage side effects of chemotherapy?

Any type of medication can cause side effects, and medical oncology is no exception. If you need chemotherapy or medical oncology, it’s natural to be worried about how these side effects will impact you. Fatigue, nausea, or hair loss are common during chemo treatment—but not everyone experiences them.

You don’t have to face side effects alone. Our medical oncologists, nurses, and support staff are here to help. We customize your treatment to help avoid or minimize side effects whenever possible. Our caring infusion center teams specialize in meeting your needs and making your treatment comfortable.

Your physical and mental well-being is important to us throughout your treatment and beyond. If you’re experiencing side effects, tell your cancer care team. 

We listen to your concerns and help you find a solution through various treatments, including:

• Behavioral health care: Our therapists and psychiatrists specialize in managing depression, anxiety, or other mental health effects.
• Medications: Our medical oncologists may prescribe medications to minimize side effects, such as anti-nausea medications.
• Nutrition: Our registered dietitians help you through appetite changes, nausea, or specific nutrition needs.
• Support: Our social workers help reduce stress and improve your quality of life throughout treatment. They connect you with support groups, financial assistance, and other resources.