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Cancer Center

Cancer Center

Richard & Annette Bloch Cancer Center at University Health

2310 Holmes Street
Kansas City, MO 64108
816.404.4375
Providers

When you have cancer, where you get care matters. You can count on getting some of the best cancer care
available anywhere right here in Kansas City, Missouri, at the Richard & Annette Bloch Cancer Center at University Health.

Our cancer center is accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, and our team is trained in the latest cancer treatments. But we also understand the power of personal connection. Compassion is part of everything we do.

Our cancer treatment experts

Our cancer team includes oncologists, infusion nurses and surgeons—all of whom are trained in the latest cancer treatment options. Many of our cancer doctors are also board-certified in multiple specialties, giving them a wide range of expertise.

We treat all cancer types, both hematologic and solid malignancies (lung, breast, colon, etc.) and take a team approach to cancer treatment. Our cancer doctors and nurses work together with palliative care professionals, physical therapists and nutritionists to provide well-rounded and personalized cancer care to everyone we serve.

Support during cancer treatment

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. We understand and we're here for you with an incredible support team who can help you and your family access the resources you need. Perhaps you need a ride to an appointment or help finding medical equipment. Or maybe a loved one has become depressed since a cancer diagnosis. Whatever you need, help is available.

Our support team includes the following roles:

  • Patient navigators and nurse care managers who coordinate care and provide information and support. The nurse care manager is your direct line to your oncologist if you have questions or concerns.
  • A certified generalist patient navigator who is trained in mastectomy and prosthetic fitting.
  • A financial resources counselor.
  • A licensed clinical social worker.
  • A clinical psychologist.
  • A nondenominational chaplain.
  • A music therapist.
  • A pet therapist.
  • A pharmacist.

Cancer Resource Downloads

How To Cope With Cancer Diagnosis

Cancer Center amenities and services

We want the Cancer Center to be a place where you can get the best possible cancer treatment. But we also want it to be a welcoming space where you can feel comfortable.

  • We offer free parking. And when you come in to the building, an elevator can take you directly to the Cancer Center foyer.
  • Our infusion center includes pleasant private and semiprivate spaces so you have the option of quiet during treatment or of conversing with other patients. Drinks and snacks are also available during infusion through our nourishment center.
  • The Cancer Center includes a patient resource library where patients and family members can use computers during clinic hours.
  • We have an appearance boutique on-site where you can find mastectomy supplies, a large selection of wigs and other personal items.

In addition, we offer specialized services you won't find everywhere else. Our breast center helps people with an increased risk of breast cancer. And our biospecimen repository empowers patients to support cancer research by donating tissue and blood samples.

Contact the Cancer Center

Let us know how we can help you. Your healthcare provider can provide a referral. Or you can call us at 816.404.4375.

Cancer FAQs

Who can get cancer?
Anyone can get cancer. But with age, the risk goes up depending on your lifestyle. Risk factors include, but are not limited to: smoking, being overweight, family history or choices of what we eat.

Is cancer genetic or hereditary?
Most cancers are not hereditary. Some can be related to your family history. Cancer is caused by changes to our genes, called mutations, which allow cells to grow and form a tumor or mass. These genes can sometimes be inherited, however, our lifestyle factors (such as smoking, drinking alcohol, eating unhealthy food, or getting sunburnt) play a bigger role in contributing to these gene changes.

Can cancer be cured?
Yes! Cancer can be cured or be in remission. The earlier the cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better your chances for positive outcomes.

How is cancer treated?
Treatment options depend on the type of cancer and how far it has spread. Your Oncologist will help guide you through options which may include surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy.

What do stages of cancer mean? How advanced can cancer get?
Stages tell us how far the cancer has spread. The lower the stage, the less advanced it is. Different cancers are staged in different ways. All stages of cancers may be treatable, however, some may not be curable.

Are there symptoms of cancer?
Rarely are there early symptoms of cancer. This is why screening is so important – it gives us a way to detect cancer before you even develop symptoms.

However, depending on the type, location and/or size of cancer, a person may experience some symptoms. These may include but are not limited to: unintentional weight loss, unexplained fevers, fatigue, pain, skin changes, bowel/bladder changes, unusual bleeding, discharge or hoarseness.

Contact your Primary Care Physician (PCP), if there are unexplained reasons for these symptoms. Only a doctor, after completing appropriate testing, can diagnose cancer.

When should I get "tested" for cancer?
There are different guidelines for screenings for cancer depending on your age and sex, that’s why it is important to talk with your Primary Care Physician (PCP), as well as complete annual check-ups and screenings. Most screenings are covered by insurance, however, there are community organizations and hospitals that offer free screenings.