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Ellis Fischel Cancer Center 115 Business Loop 70 W. Columbia, MO 65203 (573) 882-2100 About Clinical Trials Directions Disease Sites Ellis Fischel Gala Ellis Magazine E-mail a Patient E-mail Us Employment Gift Shop Guest House Index A to Z Make a Gift Margaret Proctor Mulligan     Breast Health Center Phone Numbers Physician Information Support Groups Treatment Programs Submit Comments

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has Ellis Fischel been serving the citizens of Missouri?

Established in 1940 as a state facility, Ellis Fischel was the first cancer center west of the Mississippi. In 1990, Ellis Fischel became a partner with the University of Missouri Health Sciences Center.

What services are available at the Ellis Fischel Cancer Center?

A full range of diagnostic services is available on-site to assist physicians in determining the type and extent of the disease process. Once a diagnosis is made, a multidisciplinary team works with each patient to determine the best treatment plan. Many patients are treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. A wide range of rehabilitative and counseling services is also available to help patients and their families cope with the physical and emotional effects of cancer. Ellis Fischel also offers the most comprehensive cancer screening program in mid-Missouri.

Does a patient have to be hospitalized at Ellis Fischel to receive treatment?

The cancer center offers much of its care with treatments given on an outpatient basis. Patients can receive follow-up in the outpatient clinics located on the first floor at Ellis Fischel. Procedures such as outpatient chemotherapy, blood transfusions and intravenous (IVs) hydration services which require more time than a typical outpatient visit but not an overnight stay are performed in our Short Stay Center located on the sixth floor.

How many patients are seen at Ellis Fischel in an average year?

Approximately 1200 patients were admitted to the Ellis Fischel Oncology Units for care in 2000. Approximately another 50,000 outpatient visits were made in the same year.

What has Ellis Fischel done to take advantage of new technology?

The staff at Ellis Fischel have access to some of the most recent state-of-the-art equipment to help them provide optimum treatment. These include such things as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans to help them diagnose and treat cancer. In partnership with other area hospitals, Ellis Fischel has acquired specialized equipment used to treat brain tumors and other inoperable conditions. High doses of radiation are delivered precisely on the tumor thus sparing normal tissues. Ellis Fischel also offers the latest drugs used to treat cancer and control pain.

Is Ellis Fischel involved in any research activities?

In addition to providing advanced treatments, Ellis Fischel participates in clinical research trials through multiple national cooperative protocol groups. This research is designed to improve quality of life and prevent, treat and slow the growth of cancer. The projects examine the effects of particular drug therapies, effects of surgery and the relationship between cancer and genetics.

Where does Ellis Fischel receive the finances to support its services?

Approximately 10% of the operating budget comes from state appropriations. The remainder of the operating budget comes from fees for services provided. Private support is also essential to Ellis Fischel's mission of patient care, education and research.

What avenues do I have for making a gift to Ellis Fischel?

Options include cash gifts, pledges, gifts of appreciated property or securities, insurance gifts, gifts by will and gifts in trust. Your gift is tax deductible as allowed by law.