In line with the observance of the Feast of Immaculate Conception on 08 December 2023 and marking a significant advancement in cancer treatment, a Cancer Center facility equipped with a Linear Accelerator (LINAC) was soft-launched, heralding a significant step forward in cancer care. This innovative facility, purpose-built to cater to cancer patients, integrates essential services within its walls, including a clinic, alongside vital imaging technologies like Computed tomography (CT) scans and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
The blessing ceremony of the Center situated at the Saint Louis University Hospital of the Sacred Heart Medical Center (SLU-SHMC) was graced by Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, accompanied by concelebrants-CICM fathers, who blessed the facility, together with Hospital and University officials.
The building has been designed to offer comprehensive care, housing both chemotherapy and radiotherapy units. The latter, facilitated by the advanced linear accelerator, ensures precise and targeted treatment. Dr. Paul Adlai B. Quitiquit, the SLU-SHMC Administrator, stated that when they administer radiation to localized cancer, such as breast cancer, the treatment concentrates solely on the affected area, minimizing collateral impact.
This new Center arrived as a beacon of hope for the community, addressing the escalating need for cancer care. Dr. Quitiquit also emphasized the overwhelming demand, explaining, “With rising numbers of patients not just from our City but also neighboring regions, existing centers like Baguio General Hospital (BGH), which cater to broader areas, struggle to meet the demand. Our center aims to alleviate this pressure, with a capacity to treat up to 60 patients daily.”
Ensuring adherence to top-quality standards and safety protocols before officially commencing operations, the focal team diligently navigates through the stringent licensing and accreditation processes mandated by health authorities.
In terms of collaborations, the Hospital administration has a pivotal partnership with Friendly Hills, likening it to a robust public-private partnership (PPP) and Joint Ventures. This collaboration bolsters resources and expertise, ensuring the center operates at its fullest potential to serve patients effectively.
Making the LINAC Center opening a reality, Dr. Quitiquit was joined by Dr. Emma C. Estrada, Chairwoman of the Radiology Department, and Dr. Danilo J. Flores, Jr., Medical Director.
As the facility already received blessings and will undergo the final stages of accreditation, the administration remains optimistic about opening its doors to patients by early next year. This Center signifies a remarkable leap forward in cancer care, promising advanced and accessible treatment options for those in need.
