Saint Louis University Cancer Center

Established in 2002, the Cancer Center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons through its Commission on Cancer (CoC) and National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). We combine the latest advances in research, prevention and education with individualized care. Plus, as part of an academic medical practice, we are able to offer our patients access to clinical trials, where promising innovations in cancer treatment take shape.

After a cancer diagnosis, the first step is to develop a plan. At Saint Louis University Cancer Center, we help you map out a direction for your treatment and well-being. We'll help you find ways to cope with the anxiety, anger and fear, in addition to the physical side effects of treatment. We encourage you — and your family members — to take an active role in your treatment plan to help you gain a sense of control against this disease.

You probably have many questions and may not know what to ask first. We're here to share information every step of the way, so you know what to expect to lessen some of the stress you may feel.

The SLUCare Difference

No two people are exactly alike, and no two cancers are exactly alike. Our physicians work as a team to identify your cancer and design a personalized, coordinated treatment plan. We'll discuss treatment options with you and answer your questions. We want you to feel confident about your care.

Our physicians get to know you and your family, so everyone understands what to expect on this journey. You'll have many talented professionals supporting you at each stage of your treatment: radiologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, surgeons and geneticists. You may also meet with staff members from social work, physical therapy, music therapy and dietetics.

We're More Than a Medical Team

The physicians at Saint Louis University Cancer Center realize that everyone has a different way to undertake their cancer journey. We can connect you with additional resources to help guide and support you through this process. These may include:

  • Physical or occupational therapist
  • Psychotherapist
  • Social worker
  • Dietitian
  • Support groups
  • Palliative care
  • Journaling
  • Music therapy
  • Yoga and meditation

Putting Patient Care First

All of our patients receive their chemotherapy and radiation therapy as outpatients. We deliver the diagnostics, treatment and support services needed by patients with cancer, while enabling them to pursue their family, work and leisure activities as normally as possible.

What to Know About Becoming a Patient

Make an appointment by calling 314-617-2000. You will be asked the patient's diagnosis, treatment received to date, and any other relevant information needed. Within 24 to 48 hours of the time you call, our Call Center will be able to schedule an appointment for you.
  • Test results and reports from your doctors, including X-rays and pathology slides and reports.
  • List of prescription medications you are taking, along with the dosages.
  • A family member or friend if desired. It may be helpful in asking questions or just listening with you.
  • Your Social Security number.
  • Insurance information, including contact information for your insurer.
  • Written authorization or referral from your HMO or PPO.
  • Any questions you have. You may want to write them down before you come.
You will be in the physician's office for a few hours. Since Saint Louis University is a teaching hospital, you may be seen by the nursing case manager, a resident physician or a subspecialty resident, who will take information on your personal and family medical history. Your physician will then follow up with a physical exam and discuss your care and treatment options with you.
We provides translation services for non-English speaking patients and families when needed. Please inform us when making an appointment. Find Language Assistance.

We participate in most major health plans. If you're not sure of coverage, please check with your employer or health plan. See list of insurances accepted.

Your claims will be filed by your doctor's office and we will work with you to receive full benefit from your insurance. We will respond to requests from insurers for additional medical information as needed. Each insurer has specific requirements that must be met prior to consultation and treatment. Reauthorizations may be required throughout treatment.

We know how frustrating it is at times like this to deal with insurance. We will assist you in any way possible to work through insurance situations.

Learn about bill pay and financial assistance, or for additional questions regarding your bill, please contact us at 314-617-2000.

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among women in Missouri. Screening allows us to detect breast cancer earlier, improving patient survival. SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital offers a program to help cover the cost of screening for women who are unable to afford a mammogram, including patients who are uninsured or underinsured.

You may be eligible for a free screening mammogram or diagnostic mammogram through a grant from Susan G. Komen Missouri or the Show Me Healthy Women program. Grants and financial assistance are also available for services such as ultrasound, biopsy, pathology and surgical consultation.

Do You Qualify?

Patients must meet certain guidelines for eligibility. These include:

  • Screening mammogram for women ages 40-64 (certain patients may qualify at age 35)
  • Women of any age who are currently experiencing breast problems (lump, nipple discharge, changes in your breasts)
  • Women who are uninsured or underinsured
  • Must meet income guidelines

To determine if you qualify, please call 314-268-7038.

Cancer Information Center

Our Information Center is unique in ability and approach. We believe that all people should know as much as possible about preventing cancer, the disease itself and when necessary, how to deal with the diagnosis physically and emotionally, treatment and side effects of cancer.

Using a focused computer information system, printed materials, classroom settings, and one-on-one relationships, we are enormously successful in meeting the needs of the community, our patients, their families and local physicians.

The Information Center is open to the public. Located on the first floor of SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital - West Pavilion, the Information Center is staffed by specialists who are trained in cancer education.

Resources include:

  • Articles and other written materials
  • Free wigs
  • Anatomical models to help understand the physical aspects of the disease
  • Classes on multiple topics taught by cancer professionals
  • Smoking cessation program developed by the American Lung Association
  • Support groups
  • Computer searches
  • Speakers bureau on all topics related to cancer for businesses, schools, community and religious groups, physicians practices, etc.
For More Information Call Us at 314-268-7015
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