OU Health to Open New Cancer Center in McAlester

New Center Aims to Improve Rural Access to Lifesaving Care

A major expansion of cancer care is coming to southeastern Oklahoma. OU Health’s Stephenson Cancer Center will open a brand-new treatment facility in McAlester on December 15, in partnership with McAlester Regional Health.

The goal, OU Health says, is to reduce the distance rural patients must travel for chemotherapy, radiation, and specialty oncology services — care often available only in Oklahoma City or Tulsa.

Rural Cancer Mortality Rates Significantly Higher

State health data shows Oklahoma’s overall cancer mortality rate is 14% higher than the national average. Rural counties experience even greater disparities, with 20% to 30% higher death rates for cancers including lung, colorectal, kidney and cervical cancer.

Health officials say long travel distances often cause rural patients to delay treatment or skip appointments entirely, worsening outcomes.

Facility Will Serve Patients Across Southeastern Oklahoma

The new McAlester location will provide improved access to diagnostics, oncologists, infusion services, and support programs. OU Health says opening the facility is part of a long-term strategy to bring specialized cancer care to underserved parts of the state.

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