Lakewood Cancer Center: Bringing Advanced Cancer Care to Todd County

National Rural Healthcare Day is celebrated every year in November, a time to recognize healthcare's critical role in rural communities. In Todd County, the Lakewood Cancer Center is coming up and will offer cutting-edge cancer treatment close to home. The center will be a game changer for cancer patients who previously had to travel long distances for care, providing advanced medical services right in the heart of the community. As Lisa Bjerga, CEO of Lakewood Health System, explains, “This center will be a valuable health resource for cancer patients in Todd County.”

State-of-the-Art Facilities at Lakewood Cancer Center

The new 19,270 square-foot addition to Lakewood’s Staples clinic will be located off the southwest corner of the building, offering a modern, dedicated space for cancer care. The facility will feature a dedicated reception area, a waiting area, and 14 infusion bays designed for patient comfort. It will include 10 medical oncology and 2 radiation oncology exam rooms, a specialized procedure room, and advanced in-house PET/CT imaging capabilities. A linear accelerator, essential for radiation treatments, will also be part of the new center. To enhance patient care, oncology case managers will be easily accessible within the space, providing comprehensive support throughout treatment.

Advanced Treatment Options Close to Home

Lakewood Cancer Center will offer a full spectrum of care, usually only available in larger metropolitan hospitals. Patients will be able to receive chemotherapy, immunotherapy, short-course radiation therapy, and advanced surgical procedures without leaving Todd County. Equipped with state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic tools, the center will allow patients to go from screening to treatment and even survivorship care—all under one roof. Dr. Emily McGovern emphasizes their team's dedication, stating, “What will set us apart is our team—the nurses, medical providers, and staff who genuinely care about each patient. We go the extra mile to ensure everyone receives personalized, compassionate care. You won't find this level of dedication in large, impersonal healthcare systems.”

Eliminating Long-Distance Travel

A cancer diagnosis often turns a patient's world upside down. With lengthy treatment schedules, long-distance travel can add immense physical, emotional, and financial strain. By offering these services locally, the Lakewood Cancer Center will eliminate the need for exhausting travel, giving patients more time to focus on their treatment and recovery and more time with loved ones. Dr. Wade Swenson states, "The care we provide at Lakewood is truly centered around the patient." This patient-centered approach allows residents to stay within their support networks, which is crucial during such challenging times.

Strengthening Community Bonds

Beyond its healthcare services, the Lakewood Cancer Center will profoundly impact the broader Todd County community. The facility will strengthen local bonds and build a support network where families and volunteers can come together to aid those undergoing treatment. By keeping patients close to home, the center preserves the fabric of the community, fostering a sense of connection and support.

Economic and Community Growth

The Lakewood Cancer Center is not only a healthcare asset but will also be a pivotal contributor to the local economy. As the oncology program has grown since 2022, it has created numerous job opportunities, employing nurse navigators, infusion nurses, social workers, radiation and lab technicians, and pharmacy staff. With the cancer center's opening in 2025, its presence will ensure that healthcare professionals can build their careers within Todd County, helping the community grow and prosper.

Collaborative Healthcare and Expertise

Providing top-tier cancer care in a rural area requires strong collaboration. Lakewood Cancer Center has established partnerships with major health systems like the Mayo Clinic, ensuring patients can access specialized treatments and second opinions without traveling far. These collaborations allow Lakewood to offer the best of both worlds—world-class expertise combined with the comfort and support of local, community-based care.

A Vision Made Possible by Community Partnerships

The creation of Lakewood Cancer Center is the result of unwavering community support and financial backing. Local leaders, healthcare professionals, and residents rallied behind this initiative, bringing advanced cancer care to Todd County. These partnerships have paved the way for a brighter future for cancer patients, ensuring they receive top-notch care without leaving home.

Todd County: Offering opportunities for growth and well-being

To learn more about how healthcare innovations like the Lakewood Cancer Center are shaping Todd County’s future, or to discover opportunities for growth and investment in the area, contact the Todd County Development Corporation today. Visit our website or contact us directly to see how we're working to enhance community well-being and economic development in Todd County.