Ware, MA (October 3, 2011) - Chandravathi Loke, MD, faculty member of  the Baystate Medical Practices Division of Hematology and Oncology has joined the medical staff providing care at the Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in Ware.

“Hematology/Oncology is an exciting, challenging field to be involved in as rapidly evolving research findings translate into patient care and we have more options to offer patients than ever before” said Dr. Loke.  “I also feel privileged to be able to help patients and their families during one of the most trying times of their lives.   Thanks to the excellent staff at the Baystate Regional Cancer Program – from medical and surgical specialists to diagnostic services and nursing support – we are able to deliver comprehensive cancer care to our patients," added Dr. Loke, “which is very satisfying to me as a physician.” 

Dr. Loke earned her medical degree at the University of Health Sciences, Gandhi Medical College, Hyderabad, India and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at St. Peter's University Hospital, in New Brunswick, New Jersey.  She completed her fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at Baystate Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine. 

Dr. Loke joins Dr. Donald Higby providing access to the most current cancer care, including evaluations, diagnostic treatment and national research protocols locally in Ware.  They are joined by a dedicated team of Certified Oncology Nurses and Social Workers who provide chemotherapy services, blood product transfusions, palliative care, counseling and support for patients, their families and caregivers. 

Baystate Mary Lane Hospital is a 25 bed community-based hospital, ranked in the top 10 percent nationally for patient satisfaction in overall quality for emergency services and medical/surgical care.  On September 14, 2011, Baystate Mary Lane Hospital was one of six hospitals in the state and amongst the top 14 % nationally named as a top performer by the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) for Quality Key Measures.  The hospital offers 24-hour emergency care, intensive care, inpatient and outpatient surgical care, orthopedics and cancer services through the Baystate Regional Cancer Program.

For more information call the Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital at 413-967-2241.