OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center Opens McAlester Location, Realizing McAlester Regional’s Vision for Local Cancer Care

Southeast Oklahomans facing a cancer diagnosis will soon have access to advanced treatment without traveling hours to Oklahoma City or Tulsa. On Dec. 15, 2025, OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center — McAlester opens its doors in a completely remodeled space at 901 N. Strong Blvd. The new facility marks a major investment in rural cancer care and the realization of McAlester Regional Health Center’s vision: ensuring residents receive the highest level of cancer services close to home.

OU Health began a staged transition in spring 2024 to ensure continuity of care, initially seeing patients on the third floor of McAlester Regional while renovations were underway. Today, that vision is complete with a dedicated cancer center designed for comfort and healing. Bright, open spaces with natural light, soothing color palettes and inviting new furniture create an environment that reflects dignity and hope for patients and families.

Why This Matters

Historically, rural patients have faced delays or missed treatment because of long travel times. Oklahoma’s cancer mortality rate is 14% higher than the national average, and rural counties see 20% to 30% higher death rates for lung, colorectal, kidney and cervical cancers. This collaboration between OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center and McAlester Regional ensures that location and geography no longer determine survival.

“This partnership keeps families together and care local,” said Julie Powell, interim CEO of McAlester Regional Health Center. “Our vision has always been to ensure that no patient in southeastern Oklahoma has to choose between treatment and staying close to home. This center makes that vision real.”

Powell added: “We’re proud to offer a space that reflects the dignity and strength of our patients. It is bright and welcoming, and it is equipped with the most advanced technology available. This center is more than a building; it is a promise kept to our community.”

OU Health is also working with local transportation companies so patients can get to treatment, removing one more barrier to care.

“Cancer does not wait for a tank of gas or a day off work,” said Robert Mannel, M.D., director of OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center. “This center means a McAlester mom can start chemo the same week she’s diagnosed instead of a month later. That’s the difference between beating cancer and losing ground.”

What Patients Can Expect

• Healing Environment: Bright, open spaces with natural light, calming color palettes and comfortable new infusion recliners.
• Local Experts: Care delivered by a medical oncologist and an advanced practice provider with oncology-certified nurses, radiation therapists, medical physicists and medical dosimetrists supported by OU Health’s statewide network.
• Infusion Therapy: Chemotherapy, immunotherapy and supportive care with on-site drug compounding.
• Radiation Therapy: Daily treatments using a Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator, planned by network-connected radiation oncologists and supported by medical physicists and a medical dosimetrist.
• Diagnostic Services: Lab draws and advanced imaging for radiation planning.
• Network-Connected Care: Digital integration with Stephenson Cancer Center in Oklahoma City and Tulsa for coordination.
• Clinical Trials: Stephenson Cancer Center will bring clinical trials to McAlester based on regional needs, expanding access to research-driven care close to home.

OU Health’s statewide cancer care network now includes McAlester, Norman, Tulsa and mobile units, ensuring rural communities have access to advanced screening, treatment and research.

Stephenson Cancer Center is Oklahoma’s only National Cancer Institute-Designated Cancer Center, a distinction earned by fewer than 75 centers nationwide. This designation recognizes institutions that lead in scientific research, clinical innovation and community outreach — unlocking access to early-phase clinical trials and specialized expertise not available at non-designated facilities. McAlester’s integration into Stephenson’s network means patients benefit from the same research-driven approach and multidisciplinary care model found at the nation’s top cancer centers.