FAQ: Procure Proton Therapy Center, Oklahoma
What is the ProCure Proton Therapy Center, Oklahoma?
The ProCure Proton Therapy Center in Oklahoma City is the first in ProCure's network of proton therapy centers to provide this advanced radiation therapy to patients. The center's number one priority is to provide exceptional patient care. The center features state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. It provides treatment five days a week and will treat up to 1,500 patients a year.
Who is Radiation Medicine Associates?
Radiation Medicine Associates (RMA) is our physician group affiliation at the ProCure Proton Therapy Center, Oklahoma. The radiation oncologists of RMA have exclusive privileges to provide clinical care and treat patients at the center. Collectively, they have more than 70 years experience in the field and are known for clinical excellence and for pioneering new technologies and approaches in patient care.
RMA was among the first radiation oncology practices in the state to offer advanced radiation treatments, such as Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy, Gamma Knife, brachytherapy and TomoTherapy. With specializations in brain, head and neck, prostate, breast, lung, genitourinary, gastrointestinal and pediatric cancers, RMA physicians have the expertise to provide the highest level of medical care to patients and are affiliated with a number of hospitals in Oklahoma.
Who is INTEGRIS Health?
INTEGRIS Health is our hospital affiliation at the ProCure Proton Therapy Center, Oklahoma. It is the largest not-for-profit health organization in Oklahoma. INTEGRIS Health has invested $100 MM in building a state-of-the-art cancer treatment facility, the INTEGRIS Cancer Institute of Oklahoma (ICIO), to provide patients a continuum of cancer care beyond proton therapy. The ICIO will offer immunotherapy, genetic counseling, chemotherapy, blood cell transplants, intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), image guided radiation therapy (IGRT)) and radiosurgery treatments. ICIO also offers an integrated Wellness Center and on-site retail pharmacy for the convenience of patients.
How does a physician refer a patient?
To refer a patient, physicians can contact the ProCure Proton Therapy Center directly at (866) 204-9862 or submit a referral online. If you are a local physician and have referred patients to Radiation Medicine Associates (RMA) in the past, you may also follow your current process.
How does a patient request a consultation?
To request a consultation for proton therapy, a patient may contact the center directly at (888) 847-2640 or submit a request online.
Will the referring physicians be kept informed of the treatment progress?
Referring physicians will be kept informed and involved in the patient's care. The ProCure medical team will remain available to patients' physicians after patients return to their care.
Will comprehensive cancer care (chemotherapy, imaging services, blood tests, etc.) be available at the center?
ProCure's Proton Therapy Centers only provide proton therapy and follow-up care related to proton therapy. We will assist patients who do not have local care to help ensure that their comprehensive medical needs are taken care of. To help ensure a seamless continuum of care and comprehensive cancer care, ProCure has an affiliation with the INTEGRIS Cancer Institute of Oklahoma, which is located adjacent to the ProCure Proton Therapy Center. Patients who have local medical care may remain under the care of their local physician for non-proton medical needs.
Who is part of the patient Care Team?
The patient care team includes a nurse and radiation therapists, and is led by a radiation oncologist from Radiation Medicine Associates. Care teams are consistent throughout treatment, meaning the therapists and medical professionals treat the same patient for the full course of therapy.
Will a patient be able to continue with his/her chemotherapy or other cancer treatments while receiving proton therapy?
Proton therapy can be used in combination with chemotherapy, surgery and standard radiation treatment. Patients should discuss combination therapy options with their doctor.
Will a patient need to see a new medical oncologist once treatment at ProCure Proton Therapy Center has begun?
If a patient already has a medical oncologist, the physician will be able to continue to manage the patient's non-proton related care. If a patient is seeking a medical oncologist in the area, the ProCure Proton Therapy Center will provide a list of medical oncologists at the INTEGRIS Cancer Institute of Oklahoma (ICIO) or other facilities to provide additional medical care needed.
What should a patient do if his/her medical oncologist doesn't think proton therapy is appropriate for the patient's case but the patient still would like to have a consultation with a radiation oncologist at the center?
The patient may contact the ProCure Proton Therapy Center directly to request a consultation by calling (888) 847-2640 or they may submit a request online. Our team will assist the patient in collecting the documents and information necessary to present your case to the Physician Review Board for evaluation.
What additional patient services are available at the Center?
There will be 24/7 support from nurses to address non-urgent medical needs for patients. Concierge services also will be available to assist with personal needs, such as lodging and transportation arrangements.
If a patient is from out of town, does the Center help arrange lodging and transportation?
Yes. Our concierge is available to help recommend lodging and coordinate transportation as well as assist patients with a variety of needs outside the treatment room.
What is the cost of living in OKC?
Oklahoma City is one of the least expensive major metropolitan areas in the United States. According to a recent AAA survey, Oklahoma City's overall cost of living is 21.25% below the national average. Oklahoma City has recently undertaken a revitalization of its urban amenities, including hotels, museums, shopping and restaurants. In addition, a variety of entertainment options are available at a fraction of the price required in other large cities.
