August 30, 2009

Albuquerque Journal

Cancer Center a Gift (Editorial)

To say the new University of New Mexico Cancer Center is state of the art is to understate what the $90 million center will offer New Mexicans when its doors open Monday to about 380 patients.
       
The center at Camino de Salud and University NE is breathtaking in its design and sweeping in its planning for patient comfort and care in one inclusive facility. While offering the latest in medical treatment and care, it also has a healing ambience.
       
Among its treatment amenities: the latest in radiation oncology — a radiotherapy and a radiosurgery machine hidden behind a panel so patients are greeted with images of nature; large exam rooms so family can be at a patient's side; and central pods where doctors can communicate about cases using laptops to access patient information. Plans call for a pager system so patients aren't confined to the lobby or an exam room while waiting for an appointment.
       
Among its amenities to promote a healing atmosphere: a meditation room with a fireplace where sage can be burned; a healing garden with fountain, waterfall and benches; and recliners on wheels so patients can get chemo infusions outdoors.
       
Five years in the coming, it is the state's only National Cancer Institute Designated Cancer Center. Its multidisciplinary approach is a welcome gift to cancer patients and their families.