Geographic Health Disparities: Satellite Clinics for Cancer Care in Rural Communities

Background: Cancer treatment is time-consuming and challenging for most patients, but particularly for those who live in geographically isolated areas. Satellite chemotherapy infusion centers offer a possible solution to geographic disparities in health care.

Objectives: This article analyzes a satellite chemotherapy infusion center on the island of Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts.

Methods: Interviews were conducted with staff of the infusion department of Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, which has partnered with the cancer center at Massachusetts General Hospital to offer a satellite chemotherapy infusion center for island residents.

Findings: High-quality community hospitals are increasingly able to offer specialized oncology treatment and nursing care at greater convenience for patients through the use of satellite clinics.