Event Showcases Building Modernization, New Technology

Center has served Tangipahoa since 1988

  Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Hammond, a nationally accredited leader in radiation therapy, was the site of the Chamber After Hours event and ribbon cutting Thursday, Sept. 19. Co-sponsored by the Cancer Center and Tobacco-Free Living’s (TFL) Healthier Air for All campaign, the event showcased the newly renovated treatment facility and the efforts and progress of TFL. Nearly 100 people turned out to tour the building and learn about the changes and additions, including the new state-of-the-art Discovery PET/CT 610 Series imaging technology that delivers fast and detailed scans at a low dose. “Last November, the sophisticated Elekta Infinity radiation treatment system, one of the most advanced treatment technologies available, was installed at the Hammond Center,” said Todd Stevens, president and CEO, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “Early this summer, more changes were made to accommodate the Discovery PET/CT imaging system and modernize the entire building to enhance the total patient experience.” Chamber members, local dignitaries and community physicians enjoyed food and beverages in the newly-designed waiting area. Guided tours included stops at the Elekta Infinity, treatment planning area, and the new PET/CT technology. Other modifications include the remodel of two exam rooms and the addition of a consultation room, two PET patient prep rooms, a Hot Lab, a video conferencing room, increased building security/access control, and new exterior landscaping. The Early Bird, Mary Bird Perkins’ mobile medical clinic, was onsite for those wanting to learn more about the free cancer screenings provided for underserved populations throughout its 18 parish service area. Since 2002, Mary Bird Perkins and its partners across southeast Louisiana have screened more than 50,000 people for cancer. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Hammond has been serving patients in Tangipahoa Parish since 1988.     Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is a regional cancer care organization that has been fighting cancer for over 40 years. With five centers in Baton Rouge, Covington, Hammond, Houma and Gonzales, its service area encompasses 18 parishes across southeast Louisiana.  For more information, please visit,