Cancer Care

Why St. Joseph Hospital

At St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center, we know that going through a cancer journey isn’t just physical, but emotional and spiritual, too. That’s why, in addition to state-of-the-art treatments, we provide integrative therapies designed to improve overall health and quality of life. Cancer patients can choose from a wide range of therapeutic options to help fight their illness, including mind and body interventions, massage therapy, yoga, nutrition, music therapy and acupuncture. It’s all part of our goal to give patients the most comprehensive and compassionate care possible.

About Us

At St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center, we are more than just a cancer treatment facility. We are an entire community of care, driven by the most advanced technologies and the heartfelt dedication of an expert team of cancer specialists. We offer comprehensive services in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancer. Working together, our team brings multiple perspectives and a wide range of expertise to develop a cancer treatment plan that is right for you.

We offer the latest in chemotherapy and radiation treatments, making it possible for you to receive innovative cancer care right here in your own community. We utilize advanced technology, including MRI, CT, Ultrasound and Linear Accelerators — and our PET scanner was the first in the Nashua area.

Our focus is on treating the whole patient with a full continuum of cancer care and support services, including pain and symptom management, infusion services, nutrition, spiritual care, psychiatric and social work, as well as cancer companions and support groups. We also offer a range of complementary therapies to help with relaxation and well-being that are designed to work together with your cancer treatment plan.

Our Let No Woman Be Overlooked program provides free breast and cervical cancer screenings to women 18–64 years old who do not have health insurance or have insurance that does not pay for the screening tests. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the Breast Care Center at (603) 882-3000, ext. 67188.

St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center has been designated as a Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology. This designation recognizes St. Joseph Hospital’s commitment to practicing safe, effective diagnostic care for individuals at the highest risk for lung cancer. We offer an advanced Lung Cancer Screening Program, which includes a low-dose CT scan, community education and a personalized treatment plan for patients at high risk for lung cancer. Screenings are recommended for adults 55–80 years old who have a history of heavy smoking. Contact your primary care provider if you think you may qualify.

About 30% of all cancer deaths in the United States are caused by smoking, according to the American Cancer Society. We know that quitting can be difficult, which is why we provide a range of smoking cessation services. These include a full assessment and counseling, as well as pharmacologic treatments such as nicotine patches, lozenges, gum, bupropion, and varenicline.

Cancer Center Healing Garden

The Gerard L. Gagnon Cancer Care Healing Garden and the Mary Caprio Meditation Area are more than just beautiful landscapes. For patients and their loved ones, these spaces offer a peaceful sanctuary amid the chaos and uncertainty of cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Surrounded by tall trees, blooming flowers, and a gentle breeze, the healing garden is a serene oasis. Patients can sit on one of many benches scattered throughout the garden, taking in the scenery while they reflect and rejuvenate.

Research has shown that exposure to nature can reduce stress, decrease anxiety, and improve overall well-being. With calming sights, sounds, and smells, this space is a testament to the power of nature to promote healing and inspire hope.

Cancer Rehabilitation Program

At St. Joseph Hospital, we understand that comprehensive survivorship services help survivors improve their ability to function as well as their overall quality of life. Regardless of the stage of cancer or phase of treatment or recovery, survivors can benefit from participation of St. Joseph Hospital’s Cancer Rehabilitation (CARE) Program.

Commission on Cancer

St. Joseph Hospital is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC), which is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving the survival and quality of life for cancer patients through standard setting. This promotes cancer prevention, research, education, and monitoring of comprehensive quality care.

Radiation Center

Cancer patients at St. Joseph Hospital receive access to radiation therapy at the Radiation Center of Greater Nashua — the only accredited radiation center serving southern New Hampshire and licensed by the State of New Hampshire’s Department of Public Health. To contact the Radiation Center of Greater Nashua, call (603) 880-1590.

Clinical Trials

At St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center, we collaborate with other leading cancer centers to provide local access to advanced clinical trials. Clinical trials are cancer research studies that test new techniques and medicines to treat, control or prevent cancer. Our clinical trials always remain in compliance with the principles and ethics set by the Catholic Archdiocese, and we see them as a key part of our effort to eliminate cancer. For more information about clinical trials at St. Joseph Hospital, contact Alison Gnerre, RN, Clinical Trials & Nurse Navigator, at (603) 880-3408.

 

Meet Our Team

Our cancer care team includes board-certified oncologists and hematologists specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Supported by dedicated cancer nurses and staff, our physicians offer around the clock care in an atmosphere of compassion and support.

Darren Pelio, MHS, GCRA, PA-C

St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center

Hassan Yameen, MD

St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center

603-882-3000