Chemotherapy & Infusion

Like most people who receive cancer treatment, you’ll work with your care team to develop a plan that probably includes some form of chemotherapy delivered in several sessions over a defined period of time. “Chemo” uses a mixture of medicines given by mouth in pill form or administered through an infusion that involves a vein in your arm or a special port created just for this purpose.

Individualized Cancer Care in a Positive Environment

Ask your doctor for a referral to OU Health so you can take advantage of the experts at Stephenson Cancer Center, home to Oklahoma’s largest chemotherapy and infusion center. You benefit from working with Stephenson’s certified chemotherapy professionals who provide compassionate, therapeutic care in a pleasant, comfortable and welcoming environment.

Depending on your particular treatment plan, you may receive chemotherapy in one of our 45 spaces, set up in five pods as private or semi-private and open areas, with medication administered safely and effectively by specially trained oncology nurses. At Stephenson Cancer Center, you’re part of an attentive care team that monitors your progress and provides advanced levels of care to support your particular needs.

Amenities for Your Comfort

Because chemotherapy treatments can take several hours, including 30 - 60 minutes after you arrive to mix the precise medications for your specific treatment, you'll appreciate the Stephenson Center amenities designed for your comfort, including:

• Kitchenette with microwave for you to fix your own snacks and beverages
• Complimentary beverages and light refreshments
• Complimentary lunch served by volunteers between 11 a.m. and noon
• Complimentary Wi-Fi for you to connect to laptops, tablets or online services
• Warm and cozy blankets

Safety Precautions for Caregivers & Children

Patients may bring one caregiver to each infusion appointments.

All caregivers must be over the age of 16. Our helpful staff will provide each caregiver with a nametag to wear while supporting loved ones in the infusion center.

Explore Chemotherapy at Stephenson Cancer Center

Although our twice-weekly in-person Chemo 101 classes at Stephenson Cancer Center have been canceled for now, due to the coronavirus pandemic, you and your loved ones can still get the Chemo 101 information you need. Simply download and review our Preparing for Chemotherapy booklet [pdf]. You’ll find a pre-appointment checklist, information about how to prepare and what to expect during your first chemotherapy appointment, as well as answers to frequently asked questions about chemotherapy and infusion, such as:

• What to wear
• What you can eat
• Whether to take your regular medications
• How long treatments may take
• Missed appointments and holidays
• Transportation and weather-related issues
• Who to contact with medical questions and concerns
• Activities to keep you occupied during treatment time
• Loved ones and childcare during treatment
• Information for caregivers
• Financial counseling and assistance for your treatment
• Supportive care or social work services to connect you with helpful resources

Or attend an online version of the class by watching the Chemo 101 video [17:59], below, at your convenience. You and your caregivers can learn more about what to expect during chemotherapy, along with guidelines to help you maintain good nutrition and healthy behaviors, and tips for managing side effects.

Your Chemotherapy & Infusion Care Team

Your experienced chemotherapy and infusion team at Stephenson Cancer Center involves dozens of highly trained professionals, including oncologists, physicians, advanced practice providers, oncology pharmacists, chemotherapy and infusion nurses, and financial navigators, as well as dietitians, nutritionists and supportive care specialists who focus on your individual needs throughout your cancer journey.