Thoracic Cancer Program
As a patient at Providence Swedish Cancer Institute, you have access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options and a team of compassionate specialists in thoracic cancer. This commitment to innovation and personalized, patient-first support is why more people with thoracic cancer trust us with their care than any other facility in Washington.
Trusted, Research-Driven Care
In addition to treating more thoracic cancer patients than anywhere else in the state, Providence Swedish Cancer Institute is home to Washington’s leading lung cancer treatment program.
Our patients choose us not only for our experience, but because we’re constantly pushing cancer care forward. We focus on research that benefits patients today, not just tomorrow — clinical studies and real-world innovations that improve treatment options and outcomes now.
At every step, we prioritize your comfort, your well-being, and your understanding of what’s ahead. And behind it all is a dedicated team of experts who lead with compassion and deep knowledge of thoracic cancer care.
Thoracic Cancer Conditions We Treat
We provide comprehensive care for thoracic cancer, from early-stage and localized cases to invasive and advanced cancers.
- Lung Cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Thymic Cancers
- Thoracic Cancer
Meet Our Thoracic 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 thoracic cancer experts work collaboratively to support your health through every stage of care.
Testing & Diagnostics
Our thoracic cancer specialists use advanced testing and diagnostic tools to accurately identify the type, stage, and unique characteristics of your thoracic cancer.
We also offer screenings and genetic testing to promote awareness and early detection of thoracic cancer.
Robotic navigational bronchoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that gives doctors improved precision and access to certain areas of the lungs. This results in the ability to biopsy lung nodules and lesions that were previously difficult or impossible to reach using conventional bronchoscopy. Biopsies of small, peripheral nodules are now possible which helps detect lung cancers earlier, when it is the most treatable.
Genetic tests, also known as genetic screenings, DNA tests, or chromosomal tests, predict your risk of developing certain malignancies, especially if you have a family history of cancer. We offer treatment, management, and prevention plans that are personalized to your unique genetic profile.
Different types of imaging may be recommended based on the suspected type and location of the tumor. MRI uses radio frequency waves and a magnetic field to create detailed images of organs and tissues. PET/CT scans combine two types of imaging to show both the structure and function of tissues. X-rays are used to evaluate suspected cancer in bones, tissues, and organs, providing a fast, effective view of abnormalities. Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce pictures of the body's internal organs.
Advanced Treatments for Thoracic Cancers
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 receive care from a dedicated team of board-certified medical and radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and specialized nurses, all with expertise in thoracic cancer.
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 surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies, in addition to ongoing supportive care services.
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 all the available treatments for thoracic 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.
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