By Alex Holwerda

Special to the Sentinel-Tribune

PERRYSBURG — ProMedica celebrated the expansion of its medical services with a ribbon cutting on June 8.

The new Cancer Institute is located at 1620 Brigham Drive, Suite 110.

“Within ProMedica, we have a strong commitment to exceptional cancer care close to home. We strongly believe that patients can (and will) receive the high-quality cancer care at ProMedica,” said Ann Kujawa, vice president of the ProMedica Cancer Institute.

“People shouldn’t have to travel to get the care that they need. Being that cancer provider closer to home makes the difference. We see the survivor in every patient, looking at the individual as a survivor.”

The ProMedica Cancer Institute’s approach includes state-of-the-art diagnostic tests and treatments and a multidisciplinary team of experts that exceeds national standards of care.

The cancer institute had these accreditations/recognitions: American College of Radiology, American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, Quality Oncology Practice Initiative , and National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, Bronze Level recognition for their Cardio-Oncology Program, and Member of Children’s Oncology Group.

“Yes, we are the largest provider (in the region) but that also comes with a significant responsibility we take seriously. We believe we live up to the responsibility through our state-of-the-art equipment and committed team of providers, support services and staff,” Kujawa said.

“We have a comprehensive team of specialists that include medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and surgical oncologists. It is said it takes a village and we are so proud to be able to offer this extensive multi-disciplinary team of specialists to make a difference in cancer care in our region.”

The cancer institute will be offering specialty clinics including gynecology-oncology, hepatopancreatobiliary surgery along with a survivorship clinic. ProMedica is also exploring other specialty clinics based on specific cancer diagnosis sites.

The center was modeled after Sylvania’s Health and Wellness Center with the idea of bringing convenience to patients.

The project was expected to cost $35 million and create 50 full-time jobs and about 15 part-time jobs.

Along with the new center’s cancer services, patients will have the ability to receive treatment in areas of allergy, ear, nose and throat, pediatrics, and women’s health. Additional services include genetic counseling, social work support, dieticians, complimentary therapies and sexual health counseling.