A new, expanded infusion center at St. Luke’s Wood River will improve patient safety and care, thanks to its location and state-of-the-art design. Demand for chemotherapy and infusion services has continued to increase since the existing infusion room opened in 2009.

The St. Luke’s Wood River Foundation (SLWRF) celebrated the new center with a ribbon cutting on July 12. 

“Thanks to community generosity, we have fulfilled our vision to double the capacity for care and bring cancer and other infusion treatments and oncology clinic services together in one location,” said foundation president E. Carlton “Buddy” Wilton.

Dr. Dan Fairman, Medical Director of Infusion Services at St. Luke’s Wood River, spoke at the ceremony and explained why the new center is a much-needed addition. “This is really all about the patient having greater access to care and treatment close to home with loved ones by their side,” said Dr. Fairman. “The center provides a healing environment from the skilled and caring nurses and physicians to the design elements carefully chosen to aid in comfort and healing.” 

The center increases patient safety because it is located near the lab and is separate from the emergency department. Other features:

• Large, comfortable treatment chairs
• A separate area where patients can lie down and rest
• More space to enable patients to be with their family members
• Large windows with views of the surrounding mountains
• Art chosen specifically for the center was donated by local painters and photographers
• Healing touch and other therapists, including lymphedema services

Megan Thomas, foundation chief development officer, expressed gratitude for the generosity of the numerous donors who contributed nearly $990,000 to the $1.5 million center.

“Since the opening of its existing Infusion Room in 2009, St. Luke’s Wood River Medical Center has experienced a significant increase in growth in the demand for chemotherapy and infusion services,” Thomas said. “The center is a welcome answer to the growing demand for more comprehensive care in the Wood River Valley. It would not be possible without the commitment and dedication of our donors and the staff at St. Luke’s Wood River.”