Neuro-Oncology Program
At the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, we’re committed to improving the lives of those affected by brain and nervous system cancers. We deliver world-class diagnostic and treatment options with the compassion and personalized care you’d expect from a local community healthcare team. That means working closely with you to create a care plan that’s as individual as you are.
Tailored Cancer Care from Diagnosis to Recovery
Treating brain and nervous system cancers requires a multidisciplinary team that may include neurology and oncology specialists. It also demands a highly personalized treatment plan tailored to the specific type, location, and characteristics of these unique tumors. At the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, your team of experts works tirelessly to make sure your treatment plan includes the most promising options while also taking into account your long-term well-being.
Our focus on cutting-edge research and clinical trials ensures we can bring the latest medical advancements to your care. That includes focused ultrasound blood-brain barrier (BBB), an advanced technique that temporarily opens the blood-brain barrier to help treat brain tumors more effectively, which we were the first in Washington to use. As our patient, you have access to leading therapies and an extensive list of supportive care services that truly make a difference.
Brain and Nervous System Conditions We Treat
We provide comprehensive care for cancers of the brain and nervous system and related conditions, from early-stage and localized tumors to invasive and advanced brain and spinal cord cancers.
- Glioblastoma
- Glioma
- Meningioma
- Pituitary Tumors
- Schwannoma
- Brain and Spinal Tumors
Meet Our Neuro-Oncology Team
At the Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, you’ll be cared for by a tightly connected group of specialists who bring deep expertise and a personalized approach to treatment, prevention, and long-term wellness. Our neuro-oncology experts work collaboratively to support your health through every stage of care.
Testing & Diagnostics
Our neuro-oncology specialists use advanced testing and diagnostic tools to accurately identify the type, stage, and unique characteristics of your cancer.
We also offer screenings and genetic testing to promote awareness and early detection of cancer.
A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample to determine whether cancer cells are present. It’s a common and reliable diagnostic method used to determine the presence of cancer cells. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is used to remove a small sample of tissue or fluid. A core needle biopsy removes a slightly larger tissue sample, and a surgical biopsy may be needed if a larger sample is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.
Interventional radiology (IR) uses advanced imaging technology to perform minimally invasive procedures, often through a small surgical incision. IR is used to perform biopsies, as well as treatments like ablation or embolization, which can help shrink tumors. Treatments can sometimes replace the need for traditional surgery, offering patients less pain, lower risk and faster recovery times.
MRI uses radio frequency waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. Our MRI machines are specially designed to be less claustrophobic for patients.
A PET/CT scan provides high-quality and detailed images of where disease tissue ends and where healthy tissue begins. The scanner also detects metabolic activity of cells, which helps physicians understand changes at the cellular level that could be early indications of cancer.
Advanced Treatments for Neuro-Oncology
The most effective treatment plan is one personalized for you and targeted to the unique characteristics of your tumor. Depending on your condition, you may receive one or more of the following treatments:
Available Options for Clinical Trials and Research
We're committed to furthering cancer research because we're committed to finding you the best treatment. Your care team will proactively tell you about any of the ongoing clinical trials that might be a fit for your treatment plan.
Awards & Accreditations
The Providence Swedish Cancer Institute is nationally recognized for excellence in cancer care, research, and patient outcomes. Our dedication to advancing cancer treatment has earned accreditations and distinctions from some of the most respected institutions in the country.
American College of Radiology (ACR) - Diagnostic Imaging Center of Excellence
American College of Surgeons (ACS) - Commission on Cancer Accredited Program
American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) - Accreditation Program for Excellence (APEx)
Patient Resources & Support
Frequently Asked Questions
You may receive care from board-certified specialists in neurosurgery, medical oncology, and radiation oncology.
Our multidisciplinary team also includes oncology nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists, and other cancer experts who support you throughout your care. Your physicians work closely together — participating in cross-departmental tumor boards with other Providence Swedish specialists — to create a treatment plan tailored to you. Although your care is team-based, you’ll continue to have regular appointments with your lead physician, who stays closely involved and helps coordinate your treatment every step of the way.
Your treatment is unique to your diagnosis and needs. It may involve stereotactic radiosurgery or another type of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, surgery, or targeted therapies.
Your team walks you through each step, helping you manage side effects and access resources like nutrition counseling, social services, and survivorship programs. Our goal is always to ensure you feel supported throughout your care.
Learn more details about available treatments for brain and nervous system cancer, and what to expect during your treatment.
We provide a full range of supportive care services to support you during and after your cancer treatment. Some of these services include:
- Art therapists
- Cancer rehabilitation (onco-physiatry)
- Care coordinators
- Genetic counseling (cancer geneticist)
- Health educators
- Medical massage (edema, lymphedema management)
- Music therapist
- Naturopaths
- Nutritionists
- Oncology nurses
- Social workers
- Speech and language pathology
We can also help with finances, food, transportation, and other challenges for eligible patients through our patient assistance fund.
See the full list of supportive care services.
Note: Some services are provided by local partners and vary based on location. Please contact your clinic for more information.
Patients have access to hundreds of clinical trials involving most cancer types. We are often among the first in the U.S. to provide access to Phase 1 trials — the first stage of evaluating treatments in humans. Please note, we open new trials often. Check with your clinician for the latest in upcoming trials.
Learn more and find out if a clinical trial could become part of your treatment plan.
If you're feeling unsure about your pathology report – which explains details like the type, size, and stage of your cancer based on lab results – our team is here to help.
We will walk you through the report, answering questions so that you feel informed and confident about your diagnosis and treatment options.
Getting a second opinion can help you feel more confident in your diagnosis and treatment plan. If you’ve already been diagnosed somewhere else, we’re here to help you take the next step. Call 855-XCANCER, 855-922-6237 - our care coordinators will match you with the right cancer specialist and help schedule your visit. They can also work with your current physician to collect your medical records and test results.
Our goal is to help you understand the insurance and billing process.
We have financial counselors on staff to help you sort out any insurance issues. These counselors work with your insurance company to verify benefits and coordinate pre-certification or pre-authorization of care if necessary. Then, they coordinate all this information with the medical center’s billing services.
We also have oncology social workers who can help you with:
- Benefits advocacy, if you are eligible
- Financial counseling
- Medicaid applications
- Medicare and coordinating Medigap and prescription plans
Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of each person we serve. A crucial part of fulfilling this mission is our financial assistance program.
This program offers free or discounted services for those who cannot afford care, are underinsured, or have no insurance at all. We provide financial assistance in cases where annual family income is between zero and 400 percent of the federal poverty level, helping ensure that financial constraints aren’t a barrier to receiving medically necessary care.
News & Info From Our Experts
