Belmont site to end radiation therapy

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — St. Elizabeth Health Center on Belmont Avenue is closing the radiation-therapy services of its cancer center Feb. 1.

The medical and gynecological oncology units will remain at St. Elizabeth Belmont, officials said.

Radiation-therapy patients will have the option of receiving treatment at St. Joseph Cancer Center, 667 Eastland Ave. S.E., Warren, or the St. Elizabeth Boardman Cancer Center, 8401 Market St., Boardman.

Transportation will be provided to St. Joe’s and Boardman at no additional charge for patients who meet criteria, said Marge Baker, Humility of Mary Health Partners director of oncology services.

“We will make every effort to ensure all patients continue to receive the same quality care in a way that is most convenient for them,” Baker said.

Free-transportation criteria include if the patient does not have a reliable means of transportation or they have a disability that requires a need for transportation.

Means of transportation include vouchers for the Western Reserve Transit Authority, the American Cancer Society and ambulette. St. Elizabeth is also working to establish a van service, Baker said.

Baker said the decision to discontinue the service is due to changes in treatment guidelines and a significant decrease in overall volumes. No jobs will be lost as a result of the closing, she said.

alcorn@vindy.com