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Salem Health Cancer Center

A diverse team with your health and recovery in mind


Contact us

 

Salem Health Cancer Center is the collaborative alliance bringing the many providers, practices, and services across the continuum of cancer care together to provide the best possible experience and outcome for our patients and their families.

Salem Health Cancer Center works with primary and specialty practices across the mid-Willamette Valley to bring the highest level of cancer care to our community. This means if you or a family member are facing a cancer diagnosis, you can rest assured knowing that a group of multidisciplinary providers are working together to decide on the best course of treatment and supportive care.

 

 

 

Award winning care close to home

 

 

 

 

 

OUR PROMISE

Exceptional care every day

At Salem Health Cancer Center, we're intensely focused on providing exceptional care. That means providing more than just treatment. It's about lending a hand when it's needed most. It's about being there in both the best of times and also for the challenging times. This is life. Compassionate care is what we think about every day. Your experience here, or those of your friends and family, should be nothing short of exceptional. We're here when you need us. We promise to care for, and about you.

 

 

 

 

Support services

At Salem Health Cancer Center, we realize a new cancer diagnosis brings a mix of emotions, questions and uncertainty that may be overwhelming. We are here for you and your family, providing free support services and communicating with your providers, to assure continuity in your overall care. Our support team includes:

  • Nurse navigators
  • Oncology counselor
  • Resource coordinator
  • Registered dietitian
  • Peer support volunteers

 

Learn more

 

Patient meeting with a cancer nurse navigator

 

Partnering for our patients

We partner with the region's most advanced and knowledgeable cancer treatment centers. Our long-standing partnerships help us to create treatment plans that are tailored to each individual.

 

 

OHSU logo

OHSU Knight Cancer Network® member

We have had an affiliation with the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute since 2007. Through this important partnership, cancer specialists from Salem Health Cancer Center and Oregon Health & Science University are collaborating to strengthen a comprehensive, coordinated cancer program right here in Salem.

 


Oregon Oncology Specialists logo

Oregon Oncology Specialists partner

Oregon Oncology Specialists is dedicated to providing the highest quality care. Their physicians are highly trained experts who treat every patient with precision, confidence and compassion.

 

 

Salem Cancer Institute Registration desk.

Annual reports

Our program is continually growing and evolving to meet the needs of our patients. Each year, we reflect on key accomplishments and highlights of our cancer program.

Cancer screening

Regular screenings are the cornerstone of cancer prevention


Regular screening tests are the cornerstone of modern cancer prevention. While some tests can be unpleasant, they all have the potential to save lives. Screening tests can detect cancer in people who have no symptoms. They provide the best chance of finding cancer as early as possible.

Woman getting a mammogram

 

Cancer screening appointments

Talk with your primary care provider to find out what screenings are right for you.

Woman receiving a mammogram

Recommended cancer screenings

Breast cancer screening
Cervical cancer screening
Colon cancer screening
Lung cancer screening
Prostate cancer screening

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Cancer Genetics Program

More is learned every day about how cancer risk is affected by family history and inherited factors. Some families have hereditary cancer that can be identified with genetic testing.

Roughly five to ten percent of cancers are hereditary and develop due to a gene mutation that has been passed down in the family. As a result, individuals who inherit a mutation from their mother or father are at a higher risk to develop certain cancers.


Understanding your risk factors

Individuals who have a hereditary cancer syndrome have an increased risk for certain cancers and/or to develop second primary cancers. Other family members are also at risk to have the same mutation. In addition, you may have an increased risk for cancer if you or a family member has a history of:

  • Adult cancer diagnosed under the age of 50.
  • More than one type of cancer in the same person.
  • Two or more relatives with the same type of cancer.
  • Male breast cancer.
  • Breast and ovarian cancer in close family members.
  • Colon and uterine cancer in close family members.
  • Breast or ovarian cancer and a Jewish background.
  • More than 10 colon and/or rectal polyps in total (not necessarily found all at once).

 

 

Meet our genetic counselor

Genetic counselors conduct risk assessments for cancer based on a patient's medical and family history.

Katie Stoll genetic counselor

Katie Stoll, MS, CGC

Genetics

 

Genetic counseling can help you:

  • Learn how your own cancer and family history may affect you.
  • Understand if genetic testing makes sense for you.
  • Know what you may or may not gain from genetic testing.
  • Become aware and take steps to reduce your cancer risk.

 

Genetic counseling FAQs

What is a genetic risk assessment?
How do I schedule an appointment?
Preparing for your appointment

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For the most up-to-date information about each type of cancer, its treatment and its outlook, visit these national resources.


Logo for the American Cancer Society

Cancer treatment

We represent every specialty involved in cancer treatment


At Salem Health Cancer Center, we specialize in hope. Together, our team of multi-disciplinary providers create a treatment plan unique to each patient. And they use a wide variety of tools in the battle against cancer.

We want to prepare you for whatever treatment path you take. Part of that preparation is knowing the different types of available cancer treatment.

Woman hugging another woman with cancer

 

We collaborate closely with OHSU Knight Cancer Institute and Oregon Oncology Specialists to provide the latest treatment options to our community.

 

Introducing the Edge Radiosurgery System: A revolutionary tool in the fight against cancer.

With the Edge system, we can visualize the tumor and surrounding healthy tissue in real time, track patient movement and direct radiation with remarkable accuracy — often within a millimeter. This precise, non-invasive approach means fewer side effects, greater comfort and improved outcomes for our patients.

The introduction of the Edge Radiosurgery System underlines our commitment to leveraging state-of-the-art technology in providing the best possible care to our patients.

 


Cancers we treat

The team at Salem Health Cancer Center is made up of board-certified physicians, oncology-certified nurses, and other clinical specialists from every discipline involved in cancer care.

Bone cancer

Breast cancer

Blood

  • Leukemia
  • Lymphoma — Hodgkin’s and Non-Hodgkin’s
  • Myeloma

Brain tumor

  • Astrocytoma
  • Glioblastoma
  • Meningioma
  • Brain metastases

Carcinoid tumor

Gastrointestinal

  • Anal
  • Colorectal
  • Esophageal
  • Liver
  • Stomach
  • Pancreatic

Gynecologic

  • Cervical
  • Endometrial
  • Ovarian
  • Uterine
  • Vaginal
  • Vulvar

Head and neck

  • Laryngeal
  • Nasal cavity and paranasal sinus
  • Nasopharyngeal
  • Oral
  • Salivary gland
  • Thyroid

Thoracic cancer

  • Chest wall tumors
  • Lung
  • Mediastinal tumors
  • Mesothelioma
  • Non-small cell
  • Pulmonary metastasis
  • Small cell

Skin Cancer

  • Melanoma
  • Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Sarcoma

Urological

  • Bladder
  • Kidney
  • Prostate
  • Testicular

 


 

For the most up-to-date information about each type of cancer, its treatment and its outlook, visit these national resources.


Logo for the American Cancer Society

 

 

Treatment for the mind and body

Medical treatment of cancer is only part of your overall treatment. We offer a variety of support groups aimed at treating the emotional and spiritual parts of a cancer diagnosis.

Our support groups are filled with others facing similar concerns and challenges — you are not alone.

Join us as we discuss the many kinds of hardships that come along with a cancer diagnosis.


Learn more

 

 

 

Preparing for cancer treatment

Soon after a cancer diagnosis, a doctor will discuss treatment options with you. It is very easy to become overwhelmed during this time — you may feel like you’ve lost control of your body. One way to feel more in control is to take an active approach to preparing for treatment. Below are four ways to feel more in control.

Ask your doctor questions

Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor any question. If something is troubling you, it's worth discussing. We have a support team to help you navigate your care.

Before appointments, you may find it useful to write down your questions so you won't forget what you want to ask. Take notes or ask whether you may use a voice recorder. You may also want to ask a family member or friend to join you.

 

Learn more

Doctor standing in lobby

 

Patient receiving radiology treatment
Anticipate symptoms & side effects

You won't know exactly what side effects you’ll have until treatment begins. Common side effects include fatigue, hair loss, nausea, fever and infection.

Planning for side effects — before they happen — with your doctor and family can help. You may need loved ones to take over household chores and responsibilities for a while. The good news is that most side effects are controllable and will go away after treatment ends.

 

Learn about managing symptoms

 

Commit to eating right

Normally, a healthy diet includes eating lots of fruits and vegetables and limiting fat and sugar. But nutrition is often different during cancer treatment.

To strengthen your body, you may need to increase calories and protein in your diet. Our dietitian can advise you on ways to avoid some side effects of treatment, such as nausea and constipation.

 

Learn about cancer wellness

 

Man and woman talking in an office
Talk to your employer

Whether you can work during cancer treatment will depend on your health status and how you feel. Some employers offer flexible work hours or other options.

You won't know how you will feel until treatment starts, but it doesn't hurt to have a conversation about it ahead of time.

Our resource coordinator can help you assess your health insurance, address any financial concerns and find community resources to help you during this time. Talk to your employer about your Oregon Family Leave Act and Family Medical Leave Act options.

 

Learn more

 

 

Woman working in medial lab

Clinical trials

Cancer clinical trials often compare the most accepted cancer treatment with a new type of treatment. The hope is that the new treatment will be better.

Our affiliation with OHSU Knight Cancer Institute means we work closely with researchers to provide high-quality cancer care. We tailor the clinical trials to the needs of the community — including quality of life trials.

Talk with your doctor or call the Salem Health clinical research department at 503-814-1435 to see if clinical trials are an option for you.


Learn more

 

Cancer support

Resources to help you throughout your cancer journey


At Salem Health Cancer Center, we realize a new cancer diagnosis brings a mix of emotions, questions and uncertainty that may be overwhelming. Our team is here for you and your family, providing free support services. We communicate with your providers, ensuring continuity in your care. We can also help connect you to the resources you need, both at Salem Health and in the community.

 

Contact us at 503-814-1449, option 5 or cancercenter@salemhealth.org.

Cancer support services

 


“I went through chemo, surgery and radiation for breast cancer. I'm so grateful for all the incredible support I got — and to be alive and well!"

Andrea D. — Salem Health Cancer Center patient


 

Treating the whole person

Exceptional care means going above and beyond. Each person's cancer experience is different. We customize treatment and support plans for everyone that walks through our doors. Besides receiving medical treatment from oncologists, you'll meet with specialists that will help with everything else.

 


 

Patient meeting with a cancer nurse navigator

Nurse navigators

 

 

Patient meeting with a cancer nurse navigator

Oncology counselor

 

 

Patient meeting with a cancer nurse navigator

Resource coordinator

 

 

 

 

Patient meeting with a cancer nurse navigator

Registered dietitian

 

 

Patient meeting with a cancer nurse navigator

Peer support volunteers

 

 

 

 

 


Meet our support team

We realize a new cancer diagnosis brings a mix of emotions, questions and uncertainty that may be overwhelming. Our team is here for you and your family, providing free support services and communicating with your providers, to assure continuity in your overall care.

 

Melanie Berry - Oncology Counselor

Melanie Berry
Oncology Counselor

 

Teresa Pimentel - Registered Dietitian

Teresa Pimentel
Registered dietitian

Michelle Garibay

Michelle Garibay
Resource coordinator

 

Sabrina Borup

Sabrina Borup
Intake coordinator

 

Kathy Wolfe - Nurse Navigator

Kathy Wolfe
Breast nurse navigator

Liz Colwell

Liz Colwell
Breast nurse navigator

 

Jeanette Keating

Jeanette Keating
Nurse navigator

Lisa Rausch — nurse navigator

Lisa Rausch
Nurse navigator

 

 


Cancer support groups

People often find comfort when they talk to others with similar experiences. Our support groups are essential for positive emotional healing and recovery.

COVID-19 has created many obstacles for conducting safe social group gatherings. Call us at 503-814-1449, option 5, for details about current meeting times.

 

Our support groups

Breast cancer support group
Latina cancer support group
Gynecologic cancer support group
Knit Well Support Group
Prostate cancer support group
Thriving and Surviving Cancer Support Group
Women’s advanced cancer support group

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People sitting down in a circle

 

Sue placing a headscarf on a cancer patient

Help with headwear

Scarves and hats are an easy, comfortable way to hide your hair loss, help keep you warm, and protect you from the sun.

Learn about the variety of ways you can tie a headscarf here.

 

 

Creative art activities

Drop in and join local artist and cancer survivor, Marnie Jeffers, for a creative art activity. This event takes place on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. A variety of free projects are available throughout the year for cancer patients and their families.

When: 2nd Tuesday each month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Where: Salem Health Cancer Center Lobby

 

Cancer wellness

Resources to help you throughout your cancer journey


The Salem Health Cancer Center offers the latest technology, a wide range of services, and year-round support for cancer patients and their caregivers.

Make healthy choices every day — like avoiding tobacco, protecting your skin, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Learn more below!
CANC-2492-Survivor day web image 600x400 (1)

 


Cancer Survivors Day

 

 

Education and awareness

Salem Health Cancer Center partners with cancer specialists to provide education and awareness to our patients and communities.

 


Cancer survivors team up to raise awareness and support others

Watch this video and meet several members of The Unsinkables dragon boat team, based in Salem. This inspiring group of women is comprised entirely of cancer survivors, caregivers and others.

The dragon boat team was founded in 2015 and rows year-round. The group regularly participates in regional and international competitions. They always welcome and invite new members to join in the fun!

Colon cancer screening awareness

Robert Ponec, MD presents an in-depth, virtual talk about the importance of colon cancer screening – including new recommendations to begin screening at a younger age (45 to 49 years old).

Cancer doesn’t wait – so neither should you. The American Cancer Society estimates 35% of Americans put elective medical procedures on hold, including cancer screenings, due to COVID-19-related fears and service disruptions. The earlier the cancer is detected, the more options there are for treatment, and the better the chances of survival.

 

Breast cancer and genetics

This video features information from surgeon, Patricia Luckeroth, MD, FACS, Breast Care Center medical director and Nancy Ledbetter, CNS, AGN-BC, cancer genetics nurse specialist.

Besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women.

In this video, Dr. Luckeroth discusses family history, breast density, genetic testing, screening guidelines, breast cancer risk and modifiable risk factors.

 

Maintaining physical activity is important to your cancer journey

Regular exercise promotes lifelong wellness and helps combat cancer risk and recurrence. Following an exercise program during treatment can help improve your quality of life. The American Cancer Society recommends these actions for safe exercise.

To demonstrate staying active while staying safe at home, the Salem Health Cancer Center partnered with our physical therapists to show you how to turn sitting in a chair into a healthy workout.

Always talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program. 

Read more physical activity tips for cancer survivors

 

Healthy eating for cancer survivors

Your nutrition matters! A healthy eating pattern can help you feel your best. Learn more about balanced nutrition to keep your body strong during and after treatment in our recorded class, What Can I Eat?

If you have more questions after watching this video, you can sign up for a live question and answer session with our registered dietitian. To register, email us at cancercenter@salemhealth.org.

 

Healthy cooking demo: Plant-based meals

To help maximize great taste and nutrition in survivorship, a Salem Health Cancer Center registered dietitian shows how to make three quick-and-easy and delicious plant-based dishes.

Recipes featured in video:


Additional recipes and information

 

Fruity kale salad recipe
Eating healthy has many benefits, including reducing your risk for cancer. Learn how to make this healthy and delicious salad!

 

Marinated bean salad recipe
A well-balanced diet not only helps you live a healthier life, it can also decrease your risk for cancer. Try this tasty salad today!

 

 

Survivorship notebooks

Our cancer program recognizes you and your loved ones may have questions or concerns as you transition into life after cancer. Our team is here to support you as you move beyond treatment and return to wellness.

We hope you will find this notebook a helpful resource. It includes information about treatment side effects and management, follow up and wellness recommendations, and support services available to you into the future.

Downloads

Cancer Survivorship Notebook (English)

Breast cancer survivorship notebook (English)

Breast Cancer Survivorship Notebook (Spanish)

 

 

Cancer Survivorship Notebook on a table

Improve your spiritual and mental health

Tending the mind

Learn more about relaxing, improving your spiritual health and enjoying the moment.

Tending the spirit

“The events of the past year have presented us with many lessons to consider. A few of them are that life is worthy of celebration, that life is best lived in community, that our approach to a situation oftentimes effects the outcome, and that life is too short to postpone joy.” Rev. Ken Morse

Read the full message

Cancer providers

The most experienced group of cancer providers in the Mid-Willamette Valley


Our providers are experts in their fields, and collectively, treat nearly every type of cancer. They work hand-in-hand as a team to develop your treatment plan and ensure that each treatment is given accurately. Your providers will monitor your progress, adjust the treatment as necessary and keep you updated every step of the way.

We are committed to compassionate, ethical and leading-edge cancer care.

Three cancer doctors standing in the lobby

 

Provider specialties

Choose a specialty to see practicing providers. Then select a provider's picture to learn more.

 



Cancer surgery

Cancer surgeons treat cancer by surgically removing tumors and cancerous cells. Our providers are certified through the American Board of Surgery.

  • Catherine Boulay, MD
    General Surgery
  • G. Clarke, MD
    General Surgery
  • Andrew Cleary, MD
    Surgical Critical Care
  • Kristopher Dozier, MD
    General Surgery
  • Juan Carlos Esguerra, MD
    General Surgery
  • Nervin Fanous, MD
    Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Jiyoun Kim, MD
    General Surgery
  • Eric Laro, MD
    General Surgery
  • Hsinchen Lin, MD
    General Surgery
  • Patricia Luckeroth, MD
    General Surgery
  • Gloria Marlowe, MD
    General Surgery
  • Rajan Nair, MD
    General Surgery
  • Patrick O'Herron, MD
    General Surgery
  • Brandon Tieu, MD
    Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Nicole VanDerHeyden, MD
    Surgical Critical Care



Gastroenterology

Gastroenterologists focus on the function of — and disease in — the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, bile ducts and liver.

  • Falguny Bhavan, MD
    Gastroenterology
  • Nabil Choueiri, MD
    Gastroenterology
  • Makkalearn Em, MD
    Gastroenterology
  • Katherine Hoda, MD
    Gastroenterology
  • Patricia Kao, MD
    Gastroenterology
  • Robert Ponec, MD
    Gastroenterology
  • Christian Speer, MD
    Gastroenterology
  • Srinivasan Subramanian, MD
    Gastroenterology



Gynecologic oncology

Gynecologic oncologists use an integrated approach of surgically managing the cancerous and non-cancerous conditions of the female reproductive system.

  • Amanda Bruegl, MD
    Gynecologic Oncology
  • Jenna Emerson, MD
    Gynecologic Oncology
  • Jessica Jou, MD
    Gynecologic Oncology
  • Elizabeth Munro, MD
    Gynecologic Oncology



Medical oncology

Medical oncologists are the main cancer providers. They specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and targeted therapies.

  • Nicholas Barber, MD
    Hematology Oncology
  • Russell Lewis, MD
    Hematology Oncology
  • Janelle Meyer, MD
    Hematology Oncology
  • Charles Petrunin, MD
    Hematology Oncology
  • William Pierce, MD
    Hematology Oncology
  • Renee Prins, MD
    Hematology Oncology
  • John Strother, MD
    Hematology Oncology
  • Natasha Tiffany, MD
    Hematology Oncology



Neurosurgery

Neurosurgeons provide surgical treatment to patients who have cancer in their neurological system (brain or spinal cord/column).

  • Maurice Collada, MD
    Neurosurgery
  • Seymur Gahramanov, MD
    Neurosurgery
  • Charles Hatchette, MD
    Neurosurgery
  • Benjamin Kafka, MD
    Neurosurgery
  • Michael Nanaszko, MD
    Neurosurgery



Otolaryngology

Otolaryngologists provide medical and surgical management of cancers in the head, neck and throat.

  • John Donovan, MD
    Otolaryngology
  • Bruce Johnson, MD
    Otolaryngology
  • Christopher Prze, MD
    Otolaryngology
  • Suzanne Strand, DO
    Otolaryngology
  • Clark Thompson, MD
    Otolaryngology



Pathology

Pathologists examine organs and tissue samples to help diagnose diseases.

  • Elizabeth Dacey, MD
    Pathology
  • Andrew Judd, MD
    Pathology
  • Matthew Raines, MD
    Pathology
  • Rebekah Raines, MD
    Pathology
  • Pamela Smith, MD
    Pathology
  • Sara Smith, MD
    Pathology
  • Debbie Wu, MD
    Pathology



Plastic surgery

Plastic surgeons perform reconstructive surgery to help patients regain as much form and function after cancer is removed.

  • Edwin Austin, MD
    Plastic Surgery
  • Dustin Christiansen, MD
    Plastic Surgery
  • Dann Leonard, MD
    Plastic Surgery
  • Gennaya Mattison, MD
    Plastic Surgery
  • Keith Neaman, MD
    Plastic Surgery
  • Katie Yonker, MD
    Plastic Surgery



Pulmonology

Pulmonologists provide treatment for patients with a cancer diagnosis of the respiratory and pulmonary system. These providers often play a key role in diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.

  • Fayez Bader, MD
    Pulmonary Medicine
  • Yasaman Eslaamizaad, MD
    Pulmonary Medicine
  • Kamran Firoozi, MD
    Pulmonary Medicine
  • Martin Johnson II, MD
    Pulmonary Medicine
  • Nimeshkumar Mehta, MD
    Pulmonary Medicine
  • Kavan Ramachandran, MD
    Pulmonary Medicine
  • Laila Sroujieh, MD
    Pulmonary Medicine
  • Kovid Trivedi, MD
    Pulmonary Medicine
  • Samar Vanaik, MD
    Pulmonary Medicine



Radiation oncology

Radiation oncologists specialize in delivering carefully targeted doses of high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells (i.e., tumors).

  • William Chance, MD
    Radiation Oncology
  • Matthew Kang, MD
    Radiation Oncology
  • Nancy Reyes-Molyneux, MD
    Radiation Oncology
  • Samuel Wang, MD
    Radiation Oncology



Radiology

Radiologists are involved with locating and diagnosing diseases within the body. They review and interpret imaging scans and send results to the ordering provider.

  • M. Bret Abbott, MD
    Radiology
  • Scott Ambruster, MD
    Radiology
  • John Bradshaw, MD
    Radiology
  • S. Burrows, MD
    Radiology
  • Richard Collins, MD
    Radiology
  • Thomas Cullen, MD
    Radiology
  • Travis Fromwiller, MD
    Radiology
  • Michael George, MD
    Radiology
  • Nicholas Hanson, MD
    Radiology
  • David Harrison, MD
    Radiology
  • J. Cody Hedge, MD
    Radiology
  • Jessica Hoyle, MD
    Radiology
  • Yama Kharoti, MD
    Radiology
  • Kyu Kim, MD
    Radiology
  • Ryan Moore, MD
    Radiology
  • Tyler Moore, MD
    Radiology
  • Jose Novoa, MD
    Radiology
  • Michael Pass, MD
    Radiology
  • D. Dominik Prosser, MD
    Radiology
  • Jared Sadler, MD
    Radiology
  • Jake Sharp, MD
    Radiology
  • Kathryn Snyder, MD
    Radiology
  • Sean Stack, MD
    Radiology
  • Peter White, DO
    Radiology



Thoracic surgery

Surgeons focus on the chest to remove cancers that affect the lungs and lymph nodes.

  • Nervin Fanous, MD
    Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • Eric Laro, MD
    General Surgery
  • Brandon Tieu, MD
    Cardiothoracic Surgery



Urology

Urologists diagnose and treat cancers of the bladder, kidneys, prostate and male reproductive organs.

  • Jaffer Bashey, MD
    Urology
  • Andrea Hatchette, MD
    Urology
  • Alan Hay, MD
    Urology
  • Theresa Koppie, MD
    Urology
  • J. Mhoon, MD
    Urology
  • Philip Rosen, MD
    Urology
  • Bradley Warner, MD
    Urology