The treatment plan

Before treatment, images of a patient's tumor and the surrounding anatomy are generated (using MRI, CT or PET scanning). Clinicians use this information, along with sophisticated treatment planning programs, to prepare a detailed treatment plan.  The plan specifies the exact dose to be delivered to the tumor, as well as how the technology can best deliver that dose, given the three-dimensional geometry of the target and surrounding tissues.  When the patient arrives for treatment, clinicians use an advanced imaging system to confirm the exact tumor position relative the radiation beam, and make any needed adjustments before treatment begins.  Some treatments, primarily for small lesions and metastases, can be accomplished in a single session, while other treatments require multiple sessions.

Becoming a Patient

Patients are referred to the cancer center by their primary care physicians for evaluation and determination of appropriate treatment. The IRCC staff works closely with each patient in scheduling and planning all of the details throughout the treatment program.

The First Step
Your first visit to the center is an examination by the physician to determine the best form of treatment: radiation, chemotherapy, surgery or a combination. In most cases, the use of radiation is combined with chemotherapy and/or surgery.

It is important that you bring recent X-rays, scans and medical records on the first visit, if they have not been sent by the primary care physician.

Dr. Bhate will discuss all aspects of your treatment with you. Your informed consent is necessary in order for your treatment to being. It is your right to have all questions answered fully by your physician.

The Second Step
The second step is the personal decision to begin treatment. Elements involved in determining the course of treatment are the site of the cancer, the staging of the cancer and the patient's general health. For our patients, we plan the treatment either on a CT scanner at Kishwaukee Community Hospital or simulator at IRCC.

Insurance

Radiation is a recognized cancer treatment method. Most insurance policies cover the cost of treatments. Standard Medicare assignments are accepted. Please give all insurance information to the receptionist on your first visit.

Patients are referred to the cancer center by their primary care physicians for evaluation and determination of appropriate treatment. The IRCC staff works closely with each patient in scheduling and planning all of the details throughout the treatment program.

Illinois Regional Cancer Center in DeKalb has enhanced its radiation oncology capability for the treatment of prostate cancer with the addition of a NOMOS® Radiation Oncology BAT® (B-mode Acquisition and Targeting) system. For more information, click here.