MSK Nassau's infusion suite is a calm, soothing space that provides privacy and easy access to the care team.
Memorial Sloan Kettering has been caring for people on Long Island for more than 20 years at multiple locations in both Nassau and Suffolk counties. Now MSK is expanding its world-class, compassionate care by opening MSK Nassau. This all-new 114,000-square-foot facility in Uniondale offers services addressing almost every aspect of cancer care. Its opening allows for more convenient treatment for people from Nassau County and eastern Queens.
“We’re very excited to offer new services and expand what we’ve been doing in Nassau County for the last two decades,” says Pamela Drullinsky, a breast cancer oncologist and MSK Nassau’s Regional Care Network Medical Site Director.
Like everyone on the MSK Nassau staff, Dr. Drullinsky understands how much a nearby location helps people reduce travel time and, as a result, stress. “It’s important to have treatment close to home, so we don’t disrupt life,” she says. “As advances are being made in cancer treatments, we are viewing cancer more and more as a chronic illness.”
The team approach to care is the same at MSK Nassau as it is at every other MSK location. A collaborative approach ensures that each person’s treatment plan is regularly discussed by experts across the institution. This includes colleagues in Manhattan. And MSK’s singular focus on cancer care makes for a committed team dedicated to bringing the latest breakthroughs to patients.
“One reason people want to come to MSK is because they receive specialized care,” says Dr. Drullinsky. “We have specialists in every field who only treat that kind of cancer and are absolutely up-to-date on the most-innovative approaches.”
But medical care is just one part of the MSK Nassau experience. The facility includes MSK specialists in counseling, genetic testing, and nutrition.
Every aspect of a patient’s visit has been carefully considered to provide peace of mind. It starts with free valet parking on arrival, moves along through the covered walkways that usher visitors in, and ends with the calm, soothing spaces inside and out. Interior areas offer patients and their caregivers privacy. Thoughtfully landscaped outdoor areas provide an opportunity to recharge.
Here’s a look at seven of the most appealing features of MSK Nassau:
1. Infusion, your way
Many people come weekly for chemotherapy, immunotherapy treatments, and other types of infusions. The 26 infusion spaces at MSK Nassau are self-contained. They provide privacy and modern comforts in a tranquil setting bathed in natural light. Internet, television, and refreshments are all available. Temperature, lighting, and seating are controlled by the patient.
2. The latest radiation treatments
At MSK Nassau, expert radiation oncologists deliver ultraprecise treatment that seeks to spare healthy tissue. The site houses three state-of-the-art linear accelerators, which are the backbone of radiation therapy. MSK doctors provide treatments that include intensity-modulated radiation therapy, image-guided radiation therapy, and stereotactic body radiation therapy.
3. Clinical trials and research
Clinical trials test new methods of treating cancer and are a crucial step in developing novel approaches to care. MSK offers more clinical trials for cancer care than any other institution on Long Island. People who come to MSK Nassau have access to early-stage research, including phase I trials. This means they may have access to therapies being studied that are not available at other hospitals.
4. Help getting back on your feet
Our rehabilitation services help people with the side effects and physical changes that can result from cancer and its treatment. MSK Nassau features a gym, seasoned rehabilitation specialists, and treatment for any stage of cancer care or survivorship. We have a comprehensive program to treat lymphedema (the swelling of the arms or legs).
5. Surgical consultations
MSK Nassau offers most of the procedures that are necessary before and after surgery, so patients don’t need to make repeated trips to Manhattan. People can also come to MSK Nassau to consult with the surgeon who will perform their operation.
6. Advanced lab capabilities
An on-site rapid-response lab cuts down excess waiting time and speeds up evaluations.
7. The Symptom Care Clinic
The Symptom Care Clinic provides help when a medical problem comes up unexpectedly. MSK Nassau specialists can refer people to partnering local doctors to reduce travel and stress.
