West Michigan Cancer Center is a cooperative program for cancer treatment of the two major healthcare facilities in the Kalamazoo area, Bronson Methodist Hospital and Borgess Medical Center.The Cancer Center consolidates the non-surgical cancer treatment services formerly located throughout the area, and is housed in a recently constructed building in the Arcadia Commons section of downtown Kalamazoo. Both Borgess and Bronson will continue to provide hospital-based medical and surgical services for cancer patients.
How Does the Cancer Center Benefit Southwestern Michigan?
The Cancer Center provides a long list of benefits to the area. First, it brings the most advanced cancer treatment to the area and places it under one roof. Second, since the Cancer Center is a cooperative program between Borgess and Bronson, it enables both facilities to avoid duplication and apply much needed funds to other areas of health-care. In addition, the Cancer Center is housed in a brand new building in Arcadia Commons, helping to lead the revitalization of the downtown area of Kalamazoo.
What Services are Provided at the Cancer Center?
The Center combines almost every necessary non-surgical service involved with the treatment of cancer. Medical and radiation oncology departments provide treatment. Patients and their families also have access to the Center’s pharmacists, social workers, psychologists, and nutritionists. In addition, we can help coordinate financial counseling, home care and family housing for out-of-town patients.
What if a Patient Needs Both Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy?
West Michigan Cancer Center is one of the few facilities in the area to offer both radiation therapy and chemotherapy on-site. Not only can patients receive both treatments at the same location, our staff can coordinate sessions for convenience and effectiveness.
Will Patients Have to See Their Family Physicians During Treatment?
The physicians at the Cancer Center will stay in close contact with family physicians throughout treatment. However, patients should see their doctors for checkups or unrelated conditions.
Will Patients Need to Visit the Hospital for Blood Work or Other Tests?
Most blood work and some diagnostic tests related to cancer treatment are performed at the Center and results are developed in our own lab. It’s an added convenience for our patients, and it allows us to determine treatments quickly.
Is Someone at the Cancer Center Available to Answer Billing or Insurance Questions?
Our on-site financial counselors are ready to answer any questions concerning payment or insurance. They are experts in finding solutions and sorting through red tape.
What if a Day Trip Won’t Work Out?
We can help arrange for an overnight stay for patients and their families at the Hospital Hospitality House, which is free. Or we have corporate rates at the Radisson Hotel.
Who Arranges Home Care or Hospice Services?
Area Hospice and home health providers can coordinate home care, nurses visits, or Hospice stays.
What are Clinical Trials and How is the Cancer Center Involved in Them?
Clinical trials are nationwide tests on advanced cancer treatment drugs and techniques. As a member facility, the results and resources are available to our patients.
What if a Patient has Trouble Getting to an Appointment?
The Cancer Center can help to arrange transportation through the American Cancer Society and other agencies if necessary. When you schedule your first treatment, remember to inform the scheduler and social worker that you may need transportation assistance. To reach your social worker, please call 616-373-7446.
West Michigan Cancer Center •
200 North Park Street •
Kalamazoo, MI 49007 • 269-382-2500
Breast Cancer Clinic
