Lifespan Cancer Institute Launches Cutting-Edge Stem-Cell Therapy Program in Rhode Island
State Approval Granted
On June 16, the Rhode Island state Health Services Council unanimously approved the Lifespan Cancer Institute's autologous stem-cell therapy program at Rhode Island Hospital. This significant approval marks the hospital as the second facility in the state to offer stem-cell therapy. The decision opens the door for more advanced cancer treatments to be available locally.
Expanding Treatment Options
With the new approval, patients at Rhode Island Hospital can now access cutting-edge treatments like stem-cell therapy and CAR-T therapy. These therapies provide bone marrow transplants and targeted treatments for various cancers, enhancing the overall care patients receive. This expansion ensures that patients have access to the latest advancements without needing to travel out of state.
Benefits to Patients
Offering stem-cell therapy locally allows patients to stay with their regular medical teams, ensuring continuity of care. Additionally, patients will save on travel and accommodation expenses previously necessary for treatment in Boston. This improvement not only enhances patient experience but also makes advanced treatments more accessible to the Rhode Island community.
Current Treatment Landscape
Before this approval, the Lifespan Cancer Institute referred 30 to 45 patients annually to other facilities for stem-cell transplants and other cell-based therapies. Rhode Island Hospital joins Roger Williams Medical Center as the only providers of stem-cell therapy in the state. This development significantly reduces the burden on patients who previously had to seek treatment outside the state.
Path Toward NCI Designation
Lifespan Cancer Institute and Brown University are planning to apply for National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation in the coming years. Achieving this designation would enhance collaborative research, expand clinical trial portfolios, and attract cancer-related funding. This strategic move aims to elevate the institute's status and contribute to groundbreaking cancer research.
Importance of Advanced Therapies
Dr. John Reagan emphasizes that incorporating cell-based therapies is crucial for providing cutting-edge cancer care. As treatments evolve, precision medicine and targeted therapies are becoming the backbone of cancer treatment. The addition of stem-cell therapies ensures that the Lifespan Cancer Institute remains at the forefront of innovative cancer treatments.
Conclusion
The approval of the stem-cell therapy program at Rhode Island Hospital marks a significant advancement in cancer care for the state. By offering advanced treatments locally, the Lifespan Cancer Institute enhances patient care and positions itself for future growth and research opportunities. This development not only benefits current patients but also sets the stage for continued excellence in cancer treatment and research in Rhode Island.
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