Baystate Mary Lane Expands, Relocates Cancer Services

WARE — The Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital (BMLH) has expanded and relocated its outpatient care and infusion services. The new space, formerly the Women & Infants Unit, located on the fourth floor of the hospital, now offers an enhanced area where experts from the Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Medical Center continue to provide convenient access to comprehensive cancer care, clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary team approach to cancer care locally in Ware.

“Our providers will continue the same excellent care and now have a peaceful, healing environment to match,” said Lisa Beaudry, director of Patient Care Services at BMLH. “Staff, physician, and patient input was considered in every aspect of developing the new area, from the physical design to patient flow and the overall ambiance.

“Beyond the new space and equipment, the renovation benefits patients in a special way,” she added. “The rooms are lined with windows that provide natural light and beautiful country views. The new family-centered unit provides a positive environment designed to uplift the spirits of our patients and contribute to a healing experience during difficult times. We are excited about this move which supports our commitment to providing high-quality care within our community.”

Drs. Chandravathi Loke and Richard Steingart are faculty members of the Baystate Medical Practices Division of Hematology and Oncology who provide care at the Baystate Medical Center Oncology Satellite at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital.

“It is a privilege to be able to help patients and their families during one of the most trying times of their lives,” said Loke. “Hematology/oncology is an exciting, challenging field to be involved in as rapidly evolving research findings translate into patient care and we have more options to offer our patients than ever before.”

Steingart, a hematologist, has been providing care in Ware for close to 15 years. “Patients can be intimidated to go to the city for care, as a team we do an excellent job caring for them locally,” he said. “They are so appreciative, the experience is mutual, and we always want to do more for them. The nursing and support staff is solid and caring, and I love coming here to provide care.”

Lori Tuttle, program manager and long-time nurse in the department, said patients “come from many area communities to receive their treatment here because of the expert care as well as the atmosphere of hope and friendship that we are known for. The new infusion suite has much the same layout as our previous site, but is much more spacious. Many of our patients prefer to be together during their treatments, and the new, larger open area provides the opportunity for our patients to connect socially with others receiving treatment. There is also a private infusion area for patients who prefer that.

“We strive to ensure that our patients feel completely supported and confident about what’s happening to them during a very challenging time,” Tuttle continued. “Our staff of experienced, oncology-certified nurses are highly trained in infusion and IV therapies and sensitive to the unique challenges that each of our patients and their families may face throughout the treatment period.”

The expansion has also allowed for a consultation room which will also be used for the many support groups facilitated by Camille St. Onge, oncology social worker, who provides counseling for patients and their families through all phases of their cancer care. “A diagnosis of cancer can bring many types of challenges and can affect each person in a different way,” said St. Onge. “As an oncology team, we all work closely together to address the medical, emotional, and social needs of our patients.”