New radiation oncology center opens in Far Rockaway

For over a decade, the Rockaways has been without direct access to radiation oncology services. Now residents can be cared for close by, at Episcopal Health Services’ new cancer center at the Walsh Ambulatory Pavilion.

Opened on Feb. 26, the center, spanning 50,000 square feet across five floors, is the first specialty service in the building. In addition to radiation oncology, the $18 million addition to the EHS network will continue to offer medical oncology services, while its neighbor across the street, St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, will continue providing surgical oncology.

“By investing in advanced technology, new facilities, and expert physicians, we are strengthening our ability to diagnose, treat and support patients through every phase of their cancer journey,” said Donald Morrish, EHS’s president and chief executive officer.

The center, capabile of treating nearly 30 types of cancer, ends a 14-year absence of radiation oncology service in the Rockaways, since the closing in 2012 of Peninsula Hospital Center.

The state Department of Health ranks cancer as New York’s second-leading cause of death, behind heart disease. In 2024, EHS identified 14 types of cancer, including colorectal and pancreatic, that had higher rates locally than those in New York City.

The new center boasts a new TrueBeam linear accelerator, an advanced radiotherapy system that targets tumors while minimizing the effects on healthy tissue. It also features a PET and CT scanner, as well as infusion therapy. 

Dr. Mark Ashamalla, chief of radiation oncology at EHS, said the arrival of TrueBeam will provide an effective method of treatment without disturbing a patient’s daily life.

“This expansion strengthens our ability to provide timely care and improves continuity throughout the treatment process,” he said.

Ashamalla joins Dr. Marc Warshawsky, EHS’s chief of hematology and oncology and Dr. Sheldon Genack, chairman of EHS’s Department of Surgery.

Warshawsky said that receiving a cancer diagnosis influences every part of a patient’s life, and added that the center would help support everyone in the community. 

“Having our medical, radiation and surgical oncology teams under one roof significantly enhances patient care by fostering better communication, collaboration, and efficiency,” he said. “We are able to meet frequently about our patients, share knowledge and coordinate seamless care more effectively.”