C is for Cancer

Thirty Years of Top-Notch Care

It has been 30 years since the NorthBay Cancer Center started serving Solano County cancer patients with compassionate care, close to home. Since then, more than 14,000 cancer cases have been handled by NorthBay oncologists and hematologists, nurses and pharmacists, technologists and therapists using state-of-the-art technology and access to cutting-edge research protocols.

In 1996, the American College of Surgeon’s Commission on Cancer first approved NorthBay’s Community Hospital Cancer Program, making the center the first non-military, community-based cancer program in Solano County.

In 2016, the Cancer Center made its move from Fairfield to a sparkling new location anchoring the VacaValley Wellness Center on the NorthBay VacaValley Hospital campus.

Radiation Oncology occupies the first floor, and features a linear accelerator, which arrived in pieces from around the globe. It was assembled and calibrated to deliver precise treatments in less time to radiation patients.

On the third floor, spacious private and semi-private bays with sweeping views are used for patients receiving infusion of chemotherapy. Just down the hall is the pharmacy that prepares the medications. “It’s all about putting the patient experience first,” said oncologist and hematologist James Long, M.D. “We looked to some of our industry leaders in patient experience and borrowed heavily from their playbook. The goal is to make each visit as calm, comfortable and healing as possible.”

To assist patients as they start their complex cancer journey, NorthBay offers oncology nurse navigators to patients and family. Navigators not only expedite appointments and organize test results but serve as a resource for information about support groups and clinical trials.

In May 2016, NorthBay Healthcare became a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network. This gives oncologists the ability to consult with Mayo eClinic experts for second opinions on complex cancer cases.

“It’s absolutely free for the patient, doesn’t even involve seeking insurance approval, and the response is quicker than it would take to refer a patient to a regional cancer center in California,” said Dr. Long.

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