Medical Oncology and Infusion
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Medical oncology care and outpatient infusion are provided by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute on the third floor of the Cancer Center, where patients have checkups and confer with their medical oncologist (doctor who specializes in cancer) and oncology nurse.
- Care is managed by oncologists from Harbor Medical Associates who have joined the Dana-Farber staff and also hold appointments at South Shore Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School.
- Infusion services include chemotherapy, as well as additional medications and treatments (such as hydration).
- Patients receive infusion in private or semi-private “bays.” Sessions last between one and several hours and are generally given at one to three week intervals. Complementary snacks are available, and lunch is offered to patients receiving treatment at midday.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a treatment that can help eliminate cancer cells or prevent them from multiplying in the body. Chemotherapy is generally administered by infusion, but might come in other forms such as a pill (oral chemotherapy).
On-site Pharmacy
The medical oncology unit includes a pharmacy, where pharmacists prepare and dispense chemotherapy and other medications, and serve on our care team. To enhance patient safety, they use advanced technologies, such as a computerized ordering system and bar-coded medications. Pharmacists are available to answer questions, but the pharmacy is unable to fill personal prescriptions.
