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Bloom Cancer Center to Bring Advanced Cancer Care to Northwest Indiana

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. g-advanced-cancer-care-to-northwest-indiana.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, February 21st 2026 at 7:49 GMT by WNCT Greenville
      Locales: California, UNITED STATES

Chesterton, Indiana - February 21st, 2026 - Northwest Indiana is on the cusp of a significant advancement in cancer care with the impending opening of The Bloom Cancer Center in Chesterton. Scheduled to open in late 2026, this 33,000 square foot facility promises to bring cutting-edge radiation oncology services, currently unavailable in the region, to patients across Northwest Indiana and Southern Michigan. The center represents a substantial investment in local healthcare and a commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible cancer treatment.

For years, residents of Northwest Indiana and Southern Michigan facing cancer have often been forced to travel significant distances - to Chicago, Detroit, or even further afield - to access advanced radiation therapies like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and, crucially, proton therapy. This travel burden not only adds stress and inconvenience to an already challenging time but also presents financial and logistical hurdles for many families. The Bloom Cancer Center is designed to alleviate these issues, offering a locally accessible solution.

The Bloom Cancer Center is a collaborative effort between two established healthcare providers: Franciscan Health and Genesis Healthcare. While Genesis Healthcare previously operated a cancer center in Chesterton that closed in 2019, this new venture signifies a renewed and expanded commitment to oncology services in the area. Franciscan Health, with its extensive regional network, brings a wealth of clinical expertise and resources, while Genesis Healthcare provides valuable local knowledge and infrastructure. This synergy is expected to create a truly patient-centered environment.

"We're bringing cutting-edge technology to the region," stated Karen Bushey, a spokesperson for Franciscan Health. "We want to offer a comprehensive cancer care experience for our patients, close to home." This sentiment underscores the core mission of The Bloom Cancer Center - to provide world-class cancer treatment within a supportive and convenient setting.

What Makes The Bloom Cancer Center Different?

The key differentiator for The Bloom Cancer Center lies in its advanced technology offerings. SBRT is a highly precise form of radiation therapy that delivers high doses of radiation to tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This precision leads to fewer side effects and improved outcomes for patients with certain types of cancer, particularly those in the lung, liver, and spine. However, proton therapy represents an even more advanced form of radiation treatment.

Unlike traditional X-ray radiation, proton therapy uses protons - positively charged particles - to target cancer cells. Protons deposit most of their energy directly into the tumor and then stop, significantly reducing radiation exposure to healthy tissues beyond the cancer. This is particularly important for treating cancers near critical organs or in children, as it minimizes the risk of long-term side effects. The availability of proton therapy at The Bloom Cancer Center will position Northwest Indiana as a regional leader in this specialized treatment modality.

The facility, located at 1050 W. 151st Ave. in Chesterton, will house 27 exam rooms, ensuring ample space for consultations, examinations, and follow-up care. An on-site pharmacy will further streamline the patient experience, providing convenient access to necessary medications. Construction, which began in 2024, is nearing completion, and anticipation is building within the medical community.

Addressing the Growing Need for Cancer Care

The opening of The Bloom Cancer Center comes at a critical time. Cancer rates are projected to continue rising in the coming years, driven by factors such as an aging population and lifestyle choices. Early detection and access to advanced treatment are paramount to improving survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients. The center's commitment to comprehensive care - encompassing diagnosis, treatment, and supportive services - reflects a holistic approach to cancer management.

Local oncologists and patient advocacy groups have lauded the project, recognizing the significant positive impact it will have on the community. The Bloom Cancer Center isn't just about building a facility; it's about building hope and empowering patients to fight cancer with the best possible resources at their disposal. It represents a future where access to cutting-edge cancer care isn't dictated by geography, but by a commitment to patient well-being.