Cancer care often means frequent medical appointments and travelling far from home to get the best treatment. To alleviate the financial burden of cancer treatment, the American Cancer Society has awarded $9 million in transportation and lodging grants. The Cayuga Cancer Center, a member of Centralus Health, has been awarded $15,000 in transportation support for oncology patients.
The Patient Transportation and Lodging Grant program provides a chance for health systems to build a portfolio of services that meet their community's needs and deliver services to patients who need it most.
Renata Dawson, RN, Oncology Nurse Navigator at Cayuga Medical Center, said the partnership with the American Cancer Society helps the staff do more for their patients. "Any obstacle we can remove means a better level of care for the people who depend on us. This grant will be very beneficial."
This is the third year Cayuga Medical Center has applied for and received full funding.
"Transportation obstacles should not be a barrier that determines the survival of those needing cancer treatment," said Dr. Arif Kamal, American Cancer Society Chief Patient Officer. "Providing funding to health systems and organizations across the country to deliver the direct assistance needed helps to fill these equity gaps and improves cancer outcomes."
When the most effective treatment requires traveling away from home, patients facing a lack of reliable and affordable transportation can experience missed appointments, treatment interruptions, and incomplete follow-up care. In a 2023 Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI) study, ACS researchers found that delayed care due to lack of transportation is associated with increased emergency room use and mortality risk among adults with and without cancer history.
what our patients are saying
“I have had many occasions visiting CMC for myself and family. We have never had a bad experience there at all. Last October I had surgery and the nurses were amazing especially my night nurse. Thank you to all CMC staff for doing what you do every day with a smile.”
“The staff and accommodations at Cayuga Birthplace are amazing!!! This is what it I imagine it would feel like to be a celebrity getting VIP treatment. I wish I could stay longer – even the food options are 5 Star! The amenities are great. Everything is clean and designed beautifully. Not a single complaint, only praises!”
“I have to say the last couple visits that I’ve had here have been wonderful. About a month ago I had an EGD and the staff were amazing! Explained everything in detail and made me feel at ease. I was very nervous and the nurse I had was very comforting. Tonight we had to take my son to the emergency room and they were awesome with him! We got right in. “
“I have been a Hemo dialysis patient for almost Five years. Prior to dialysis and during dialysis I have had several trips to the ER, due to other health issues & was admitted to CMC more than a few times. Each and every time I’ve been there, whether in patient or out, I have been treated with respect, professionalism, and efficiency. I give this hospital 2 thumbs up!! Thank you CMC for taking care of me all these years!!”
