New Infusion Bays Decrease Wait Times
Carol Thomas
Carol Thomas was nervous and worried when she went to her trusted family doctor in Strawberry Point. Her doctor didn’t hesitate to send her to Mercy Medical Center’s Hall-Perrine Cancer Center, in case the lump in her breast was cancer.
“This place has so many special little things. Everyone does something on their own to make you feel special,” said Carol. “It may not be a big deal to them, but it is to us.”
Carol’s diagnosis came back as one of the rarer forms of breast cancer, causing her treatment plan to include a 20-week treatment regimen of chemotherapy. Just months earlier, Hall-Perrine Cancer Center leaders recognized the wait times for patients to receive infusions were getting close to 45-60 minutes at a time. On average the Cancer Center sees 71 patients a day.
Staff knew Carol deserved better than unnecessary waiting and asked the Foundation to provide funding to purchase equipment for four new infusion bays. Donors’ gifts turned the idea into reality.
“I love bay #23. That’s my spot. The sunlight comes through the windows making it a special, relaxing place,” said Carol of the remodeled space. “I had no idea what to expect when I first came. I didn’t expect each space to be personalized.”
The new private infusion bays include heated massage recliners for the patients, a television, and side chairs for visitors. Just the pieces needed for staff to give Carol the care she deserves.
“Everyone has been great. They are all really positive and happy to see you. I know that sounds weird because of how serious of a situation it is, but it’s even down to the volunteers. They all make it personal and about you. They want to know you and make you feel special. I’ve never felt like a number here.”
The Hall-Perrine Cancer Center has seen a nearly 20% increase in the number of oncology outpatient procedures in the last year, all while continuing to provide The Mercy Touch®. Carol noticed the compassionate care the first day she arrived.
“Whatever mood I’m in, they mirror it. They don’t press you. I don’t look forward to my treatment, but I look forward to seeing all the nurses,” said Carol.
The founding Sisters of Mercy declared the hospital will be a peer among the best. Currently, the Hall-Perrine Cancer Center is in the top 10th percentile in the nation for patient satisfaction and patient experience. Together with donors’ support, patients like Carol are noticing.
“I don’t want to do this again, but if I had to, I wouldn’t go anywhere else,” said Carol.
