UPMC Increases Access to Cancer Care in Response to Community Need

June 10, 2024

MECHANICSBURG, Pa. – UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa. enhanced access to cancer care with the addition of a second linear accelerator (LINAC) in the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center at Rocco and Nancy Ortenzio Cancer Pavilion at 2035 Technology Parkway, Mechanicsburg. The state-of-the art LINAC is used for external beam radiation oncology treatments. It delivers high-energy x-rays or electrons to the region of the tumor. Operating a second LINAC to perform vital radiation oncology treatments will further increase access to lifesaving care for even more people in the central Pennsylvania community.

“Our patient volumes continue to increase, and when demand for UPMC services rises, we prioritize and we respond to the needs of our community,” said Alexandra Chahwala, regional operations manager, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa. “Our growth and success depend on having a strong and capable team. It’s time to reflect on the commitment the team has made over the years to serving the needs of this growing community.”

The new, second LINAC is a state-of-the-art TrueBeam radiotherapy system. Its addition to existing radiotherapy modalities will allow UPMC Hillman Cancer Center to remain on the cutting edge with the most advanced cancer care available for patients in central Pennsylvania. This radiotherapy system is designed to treat a variety of cancer tumors wherever they are in the body, including lung, breast and prostate cancers. It provides more precision so that surrounding tissues are less affected for the patient, and it gives oncologists better imaging so they can clearly see the treatment while it’s happening.

The UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Mechanicsburg and Camp Hill had approximately 36,000 patient visits for medical oncology and infusion in 2023, averaging close to 100 appointments per day on the West Shore alone. For more information or to schedule an appointment at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa., visit UPMCHillman.com/CentralPA.