Good Samaritan Debuts New Cancer Center In West Islip

WEST ISLIP, NY - Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Cancer Center in West Islip on Thursday.

The ceremony at the Cancer Institute on 111 Beach Drive was attended by Catholic Health Services administration and staff, as well as local elected officials and the Most Reverend John Oliver Barres, the Bishop of Diocese of Rockville Centre.

The event included a special blessing by Bishop Barres of the Our Lady of Lourdes statue which will be featured in the lobby center.

The Cancer Institute will officially be open to patients starting on Monday, October 7.

An open house will be held on Sunday, October 7 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. for members of the community who would like to tour the new facility.

"Today, we open this magnificent new facility that incorporates the latest technology in cancer care in a comfortable and convenient setting," Good Samaritan President Ruth Hennessey.

The new two-story facility includes a 22-bay infusion center, 12 physician offices and 20 exam rooms.

In addition, the center allows Good Samaritan to centralize its cancer care, combining the infusion services of seven medical oncologists at two separate offices into one easily accessible location with additional pharmacy and laboratory-related services.

Genetic counseling, social work, nutrition and dietary services will also be featured at this location as well as patient navigators to assist with scheduling appointments and coordinating care.

"The Cancer Institute will provide a full spectrum of services, from diagnosis to infusion treatment and support," Hennessy said. "Its goal is to treat the individual, not just the cancer."

The total cost of the center was $18 million, a Good Samaritan spokesperson confirmed.

All photos courtesy of Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center