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Welcome to the Infusion Center at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center
Why Choose Us
The Shirley A. Smith Infusion Center at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center strives to provide the highest level of care to our patients in a comforting environment. Our center is staffed by specially trained registered nurses, certified in oncology nursing as well as in the administration of chemotherapy, who work closely with our physicians to ensure continuity of care. This enables them to anticipate the unique needs of the infusion and/or oncology patient.
All patients and their support person are provided with:
- Personalized information and printed materials about their treatment as well as symptom and side effect prevention and management
- A printed follow-up plan for each visit
- Access to free support and patient resource information from our Cancer Care Navigator and Oncology Certified RNs
- Access to volunteers who support the nursing staff by closely attending to each patient’s needs.
With 12 treatment chairs, we also make it convenient to access the care you need and offer flexible scheduling. Located adjacent to the healing garden, the center is decorated in warm, comforting earth tones. To help pass the time during treatment, we offer ergonomic chairs, TV and movies, warm blankets, and complimentary light lunches and beverages. On-site parking is free.
Our services
- Injections
- Blood and blood product transfusions
- Difficult IV starts
- Dressing changes of central lines, PICC lines, and midlines
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Biotherapy
- Antibiotic therapy
- Iron infusion
- Bisphophonates (Zomet®/Reclast®)
- Cortisol-stimulation timed tests
- Paracentesis pre- and post-albumin replacement
- Port access and maintenance
- PICC line removal (by appointment)
- Patient Education
- Social Work Services
Visiting us
Hours of operation are:
Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Our providers
Location: Change location Enter your location
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Behzad Doratotaj, MD
Hematology and Oncology, Medical Oncology, Hematology & Geriatric Medicine
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Erin C. Ruane, ANPBC BSN
Hematology and Oncology & Obstetrics And Gynecology
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Support services
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Patient Support Groups
The Patient Support Group provides a safe place to connect with other patients, reduce feelings of anxiety and distress, increase feelings of hope, and learn new ways of coping.
Time and place: First Friday of every month, 12 noon to 1 p.m., via TeleHealth
To register, call: 301-570-7878
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Caregiver Support Group
The Caregiver Support Group provides caregivers of a person who has been diagnosed with cancer with practical and emotional support.
Time and place: Second Friday of every month, 12 noon to 1 p.m., via TeleHealth
To register, call: 301-570-7878
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Gentle Yoga
Classes are free for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers, and are tailored to meet their needs at all stages of treatment and recovery.
Time and place: Wednesdays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., via ZOOM
To register, call: 301-570-7878
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Paxman Scalp Cooling
Scalp cooling is a treatment designed to help reduce hair loss during chemotherapy.
Immediately before, during, and for some time after the chemo infusion, a specialized cap worn by the patient allows a cooling liquid to circulate and gently lower the scalp temperature. The Paxman Scalp Cooling System is commonly used for adult patients receiving chemotherapy for solid tumor cancers such as breast, ovarian, lung, prostate, and other gynecologic cancers.
For more information, call 301-570-7878.
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Ebeauty Wig Services
EBeauty strives to enhance the support network for women undergoing cancer treatments by running a national Wig Exchange Program and Hospital Partnership Program, providing free wigs to those in need.
MedStar Montgomery is proud to be a partner and provide wigs to patients at no cost. To schedule an appointment contact Samantha Falzoi, oncology social worker at 301-570-7878.
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Survivorship Care Program
Our Survivorship Care Program includes a care program and suggested referrals for ongoing post treatment support services including nutritional counseling, physical therapy, psychosocial support, and cancer screenings.
For more information, call 301-774-8697
Accreditation
We continuously meet the rigorous standards that are required to earn recognition from some of the nation’s most highly regarded accreditation. This includes:
- Accreditation from the American College of Surgeons Committee on Cancer for more than 20 years
- Certification from the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s Quality Oncology Practice Initiative Program
Frequently Asked Questions
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What types of treatments are given at the Infusion Center at Olney?
The Infusion Center at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center in Olney provides outpatient infusion treatments prescribed by a physician. These may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, biologic medications, IV fluids, antibiotics, and other infusion-based therapies used to treat cancer and non-cancer conditions.
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What happens during an infusion appointment?
During an infusion visit, patients are checked in, monitored by trained nursing staff, and receive their medication through an IV. Infusion length varies depending on the medication being given and the treatment plan. Patients can typically relax, read, or use personal devices during treatment.
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How long do infusion treatments usually take?
Treatment times vary widely depending on the medication and whether it is a first-time or ongoing infusion. Some infusions take less than an hour, while others may take several hours. Your care team will explain what to expect based on your specific treatment.
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What should I bring to my infusion appointment?
Patients are encouraged to bring a photo ID, insurance card, and any medications or paperwork requested by their provider. Many patients also bring personal items such as books, headphones, or snacks to stay comfortable during longer infusions.
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Does the Infusion Center at Olney accept insurance?
MedStar Health Infusion Center at Olney accepts most major insurance plans. Coverage depends on the medication and individual plan, so insurance verification and authorization are completed before treatment begins. Staff can help answer questions about coverage and next steps.
Insurance
MedStar Health participates with most major health insurance plans. Please contact your insurance company to make sure your plan is covered.