Confluence Health celebrates grand opening of Moses Lake Radiation Oncology Center

MOSES LAKE - Confluence Health marked a significant milestone in October with the grand opening of the Moses Lake Radiation Oncology Center. The eagerly awaited facility, which came in under its $14.8 million budget, stands as a testament to years of dedication and commitment to cancer patients in the region.

For patients in need of radiation therapy, the center brings a ray of hope closer to home, eliminating the need for extensive travel to places like Wenatchee or Spokane. Dr. Andrew Jones, CEO of Confluence Health, emphasized the importance of offering cutting-edge care right in the heart of the Columbia Basin. "This new facility will provide state-of-the-art care and support for our patients," he stated.

The successful launch of the center was the result of a collective effort involving numerous community groups. The Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation, initially established as the Moses Lake Cancer Foundation in 2000, has been steadfast in its mission to aid cancer patients in both Grant and Adams County. The collaboration between the Confluence Health Foundation and the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation, under the "Your Local Cancer Care" campaign, garnered significant contributions from donors throughout the region, amounting to $3.5 million.

State representatives played a pivotal role in securing the project's funding. Washington State Sen. Judy Warnick (13th Legislative District), Rep. Alex Ybarra (13th Legislative District), and Rep. Mike Steele (12th Legislative District) championed the cause and secured a state grant of $1.2 million. Efforts are underway to finalize the grant funding, with hopes of reaching $3.7 million in state grants. The Washington State Legislature's support, notably backed by Rep. Steve Tharinger (24th Legislative District), was instrumental in realizing the project.

To bridge the remaining funding gap, Confluence Health committed to supporting the center, aligning with their vision of patient-centric care. "Our aim was to create a space that prioritizes patient well-being and adheres to top construction standards," said Brent Witt, the project management office (PMO) program manager at Confluence Health. "With our dedicated team and trusted partners, we've transformed this into a symbol of unwavering commitment to exceptional care for our patients and community."

The grand opening ceremony was a joyous event, uniting donors, staff, and community leaders who witnessed the realization of their long-held dream. Speeches were delivered by key figures in the project, including Confluence Health CEO Dr. Andrew Jones, Confluence Health Foundation vice president and executive trustee Abel Noah, Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation volunteer board president Dr. Michael Graham, Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation executive director Angel Ledesma, and Confluence Health radiation oncologist Dr. Thomas Carlson. Confluence Health staff and providers, particularly those from the oncology department, were present to explore the new facility. Many wore colorful custom lanyards adorned with ribbons, symbolizing the fight against cancer.

Dr. Graham reflected on the original vision of the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation: "To bring care closer to home so people weren’t away from family and friends. They could sleep in their own bed; they could live a more normal life and have more quality of life." Angel Ledesma expressed her gratitude to the Moses Lake community, Confluence Health, and state representatives for their unwavering support.

Attendees were invited to tour the facility, where Confluence Health technologists and oncology radiologists were on hand to explain the radiation treatment process. The linear accelerator, a specialized medical device, offers precise and targeted radiation therapy while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. The atmosphere was filled with enthusiasm as people shared stories of their contributions and their hopes for the center's positive impact on the community.

Spencer Green, oncology service line director for Confluence Health, summed up the importance of the project, saying, "This project represents the hopes, efforts, and investment of this entire community in the health and well-being of their friends and neighbors, and we’re so happy to be a part of it."

Quick Read

The Moses Lake Radiation Oncology Center opened in October, under budget at $14.8 million, offering local cancer patients hope with accessible radiation therapy. Dr. Andrew Jones, Confluence Health's CEO, stressed the importance of cutting-edge care in the Columbia Basin. The center's success involved collaboration with the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation and state representatives, securing significant funding. The grand opening celebrated the community's dedication to accessible care, uniting donors and leaders. It's a symbol of exceptional patient-centric care in the region.