Houma cancer center starts construction on $4 million expansion. Here's what's in store.

Keith Magill, The Courier
·3 min read

Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Houma has started work on a $4 million expansion, officials said Monday.

Construction, expected to be complete next fall, will expand the center by more than 15,000 square feet, adding new services and technology.

“This renovation and expansion project is about bringing even more state-of-the-art, comprehensive services to patients in the Bayou Region in a calming, comforting environment,” Phyllis Peoples, president and CEO of Terrebonne General Health System, said in a news release. “Our goal continues to be laser-focused on providing the best and most up-to-date clinical cancer care in the region.”

All cancer center services will continue as normal during the renovation, Peoples said.

An artist's rendering shows some of the additions planned as part of a $4 million renovation underway at Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Houma
An artist's rendering shows some of the additions planned as part of a $4 million renovation underway at Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Houma

As part of the project, the facility's infusion center, where chemotherapy and other intraveneous treatments are delivered, will be relocated to the third floor of the clinic. Other additions:

  • An increase from 22 to 27 infusion bays.

  • An increase in clinic exam rooms from eight to 20.

  • Semi-private bays with TVs.

  • Common area treatment space for patients to be in the company of others if they choose.

  • Additional private rooms for patients who wish to receive infusions in a quieter environment.

The renovation also includes the new Elekta Infinity, an advanced treatment system that reduces time and radiation exposure from radiotherapy, officials said. Through sophisticated computer programming, the system can deliver aggressive treatment more precisely to the target area. This will limit the effects of radiation on healthy cells and enhance the quality of life for patients.

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The new technology is now available to cancer patients at the center, said Jonas Fontenot, chief operating officer and the Dr. Charles M. Smith chief of physics.

“The science and technology of cancer care are constantly evolving, and the cancer center is committed to bringing the latest advancements to help improve survivorship and lessen the burden of cancer,” Fontenot said. “Together with Terrebonne General, we are building an integrative care model where there is a level of support not available at any other cancer center in the region. It’s about always putting the patient first.”

New and existing support services area will all be located on the second floor for patient convenience, including:

  • Gym for cancer patients who require physical rehabilitation or exercise programs as a part of treatment.

  • Lymphedema management service to reduce pain and swelling caused by lymph node damage.

  • Dietary consultation area to provide patients with specialized nutritional guidance.

  • Meditation room to provide patients and loved ones with a place of serenity and reflection.

  • Multi-purpose space to support patients mentally, emotionally and spiritually through music and art therapy.

  • Supporter space where loved ones can comfortably wait for patients and step away for a quiet moment.

“We are extremely excited to deliver a larger-scale, more advanced Cancer Center to our community,” said Amy Boudreaux, director of the Terrebonne General | Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “We appreciate the Bayou Region’s continued support, and look forward to fulfilling the needs of those who turn to us during such a vulnerable time of their lives.”

This article originally appeared on The Courier: Houma cancer center adding new services with $4 million expansion