We work closely with your treatment team to develop an individualized plan of care just for you.
Depending on the type and stage of your lung cancer, you may be given medications (chemotherapy, targeted biologic therapies, hormonal therapies, or supportive medications) to control your cancer. The pharmacists at our cancer pharmacy are trained and specialize in safe and accurate handling of all cancer-related medications. Our doctors follow national, evidence-based guidelines for treatment and consult regularly with our colleagues at the Penn Medicine Abramson Cancer Center.
Molecular Medicine
Each person’s cancer cells are unique. Studying individual cancer cells at the molecular level is the foundation of personalized diagnosis and treatment for lung and other types of cancer. Understanding the molecular and genetic changes in cancer cells allows for the development of precision or targeted therapies that affect the cancer cells but not normal cells. These targeted therapies are often much more successful and less toxic than traditional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy. While this aspect of cancer treatment is still in its infancy, Lancaster General Health has already incorporated molecular diagnostics and treatment into our lung cancer program and has been a national leader in the implementation of advanced diagnostic testing for lung cancer.
Shared Decision Making
We encourage shared decision making and give you the information and tools to take an active role in your care planning. If your doctor recommends chemotherapy for you, we will provide you with a written oncology care plan that explains in simple language your diagnosis, the goals of your treatment, your prognosis, and the logistical information you need to know in order to plan your life around chemotherapy treatments. We were one of the first hospitals to adopt a practice of financial transparency, and include an individualized price estimate up front, to help in decision-making.
Your doctor and nurse navigator will explain your options, answer your questions, and help you make the decisions that are right for you.
Chemotherapy
Most chemotherapy works by attacking cells as they are growing and dividing. Depending on the medication you need, your doctor may prescribe pills, or you may receive chemotherapy in our state-of-the-art Oncology Infusion Center. At the center, our chemotherapy-certified nurses deliver expert care in a warm and supportive environment.
We understand that for many patients, potential side effects are a big concern when considering chemotherapy. Your oncologist and nurse navigator will discuss with you what to expect and answer any questions you may have. Your treatment team will also help you learn how to manage any side effects at home, and when you should be seen in person.
Our Image Recovery Center, located on the upper level of the Cancer Institute, offers holistic services like massage and acupuncture to help with symptom management, as well as an array of products and salon treatments to make you feel better about your appearance during and after chemotherapy.