-What services does CureRays offer?

CureRays specializes in advanced radiation therapies, offering Image-Guided Superficial Radiation Therapy (IG-SRT) for skin cancer as a non-invasive, scar-free treatment option that targets cancerous cells with precision. We also provides targeted radiation for arthritis to reduce inflammation and pain, as well as for Dupuytren's contracture to prevent progression and improve hand function. Complementing these therapies, CureRays emphasizes survivorship programs to support long-term patient well-being, comprehensive skin cancer screening for early detection, and detailed skin mapping to monitor and identify potential issues. 

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-How do I schedule an appointment with CureRays?

To schedule an appointment with CureRays for specialized radiation therapies such as IG-SRT for skin cancer, radiation for arthritis, or Dupuytren's contracture, patients can easily contact the office via email at office@curerays.com or by phone using the toll-free number (844) CURERAYS (287-3729) or the local line at (530) 802-6400. The team will assist in arranging a convenient time for your initial consultation, survivorship support, skin cancer screening, or detailed skin mapping, ensuring personalized care from start to finish

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-Do you accept insurance?

Yes, CureRays accepts all major insurers, as well as Medicare and certain California Medi-Cal plans, including Partnership.

 

-What should I bring to my appointment?

Prior to arriving  at CureRays Radiation Medicine, bring your personal identification and your medical insurance card. When you arrive, a number of questionnaries and forms may be requesed of you to fill out, including a Review of Systems, a Past Medical History form, and questions about prior radiation, autoimmune conditions, and cancer history details, if any.

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How many radiation treatments for skin cancer?

Skin cancer can be treated definitely with or without surgery. Non-surgical options include superficial radiation therapy delivered with a superficial low-energy unit or with a linear accelerator. The number of treatments delivered can typically range from 3 to 6 weeks and from 2 to 5 treatments delivered per week. The schedule is tailored to individual patients, based on risk of harm, the eloquence of surrounding organs at risk (OARs), the propensity for healing, the distance required for treatment, and the importance of avoiding late toxicities.

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- What is cancer?

Cancer is when a human cell goes rogue, disobeys typical instructions, duplicates uncontrollably, and invades its neighbors. Cancer is a disease of uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. It can occur in any part of the body and has many different types, including lung, breast, prostate, and colon cancer. Cancer can cause symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and weight loss, and can be treated with various methods including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

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- What is radiation therapy?

Radiation therapy is a cancer treatment that uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It is delivered using a machine called a linear accelerator and is carefully aimed at the cancerous area to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

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- What is cancer staging?

Cancer staging communicates how far cancer has already spread at the time it is discovered. Staging is the process of determining the extent or spread of cancer in the body., typically using physical exam and radiographic images. The stage is determined by looking at the size of the tumor if it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other body parts, and other factors. Staging guides treatment decisions, predicts prognosis, and determines the best course of action for a person with cancer. Common cancer staging systems include the TNM system (Tumor, Nodes, Metastases) and the Roman numerals I-IV system.

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- What is a cancer grading?

Cancer grading indicates how fast a colony of cancer cells grows and spreads. Grade is a marker of the aggressiveness of a cancer based on the appearance of the cancer cells under a microscope. A lower grade generally indicates that the cancer cells are less abnormal and growing more slowly, while a higher grade indicates that the cancer cells are more abnormal and growing more quickly. Grading is often used to guide treatment decisions and predict prognosis.

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- What is a cancer metastasis?

Metastasis is the spread of cancer from one part of the body to another. This occurs when cancer cells break away from the original (primary) tumor and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to other parts of the body, where they can form new tumors. Metastasis is a serious complication of cancer because it can make the disease more difficult to treat and can lead to serious health problems. The presence of metastases is often a factor in determining the stage and prognosis of a person's cancer.

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- How does cancer take a life?

Cancer can take life by spreading to vital organs and interfering with their normal functioning, leading to infection or organ failure. Additionally, cancer can cause symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and decreased quality of life, which can reduce a person's overall well-being. Cancer treatment can also have serious side effects that affect a person's health and ability to carry out daily activities. In advanced stages, cancer can be fatal.

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- Can cancer be cured?

Cancer can be cured in many cases, particularly if it is detected and treated early. The chance of a cure depends on many factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the person's age and overall health, and the aggressiveness of the cancer cells. Treatment options for cancer can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used. Even if a cure is not possible, cancer can often be controlled with treatment and managed as a chronic condition.

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- If a cancer cannot be cured, is there hope?

Yes, there is hope for individuals with cancer, even if a cure is not possible. Even if a cure is not achievable, cancer can often be controlled and managed as a chronic condition - sometimes for years - allowing people to live fulfilling lives. Targeting and hunting cancer as it tries to spread, exploring new advances in systemic cancer treatments, and managing metastases cancers aggressively can greatly improve the quality of life and extend life expectancy for many people with cancer. In addition, supportive care measures such as pain management, palliative care, and psychological support can improve a person's overall well-being and quality of life.​

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