Maria Parham Health celebrated the reopening of its Radiation Oncology Department on October 10, marking the culmination of several months of renovations and significant technology upgrades aimed at elevating cancer care in the region. The event welcomed community members, hospital staff, and local leaders to tour the updated facility, which now houses a state-of-the-art linear accelerator (LINAC) and offers expanded treatment options including Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT).

The upgraded LINAC represents the latest advancement in external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), delivering high-energy X-rays or electrons with exceptional precision to target cancerous tumors while preserving healthy surrounding tissue. The new technology’s ability to rotate around the patient and integrate advanced imaging sets a new standard for patient care and comfort in radiation oncology.

“Bringing this level of technology to Maria Parham Health is a major step forward for our patients and our community,” said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. “We are proud to now offer cutting-edge treatments like SBRT, which not only improves outcomes but also reduces treatment time and enhances quality of life for our patients. This reopening represents our continued commitment to innovation, excellence, and compassionate care.”

As a Duke LifePoint hospital, Maria Parham Health benefits from its affiliation with Duke Health, ensuring that patients have access to the same high-quality, evidence-based cancer care found at larger academic centers—delivered conveniently close to home by trusted local providers.

SBRT is a highly specialized form of radiation therapy that allows for the delivery of larger doses of radiation over fewer sessions—typically between one and five—compared to traditional therapy that may require daily treatments for several weeks. The precision of SBRT is made possible through advanced imaging and targeting technologies, helping to spare healthy tissue and reduce side effects.

Guests at the reopening also had the opportunity to meet Dr. Ryan Fecteau, MD, PhD, Maria Parham Health’s new Radiation Oncologist. Dr. Fecteau brings a wealth of clinical expertise and a compassionate, patient-centered approach to the team, further enhancing the cancer care services available to patients in the region.