WellSpan Health is expanding access to cancer care through a phased investment that will bring medical oncology, infusion and future radiation oncology services closer to home for patients and families across Union, Snyder, Northumberland, Columbia and surrounding counties. The expansion is part of WellSpan’s broader strategy to build a comprehensive oncology program through the WellSpan Cancer Institute at WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital.

The first phase of the program begins with the arrival of Dr. Joshua Van Allen, a medical oncologist who will begin seeing patients in September. Initial chemotherapy and infusion services will be available within dedicated hospital space while WellSpan advances plans for a larger, comprehensive cancer center that will provide both medical and radiation oncology services.

"For many individuals and families facing cancer, access to care can be just as important as the care itself. This expansion of oncology services reflects our commitment to bringing more cancer care closer to home, reducing travel burdens and ensuring patients can receive high-quality treatment while remaining connected to their support systems,” said Allen Fasnacht, vice president WellSpan Health and president WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital.

The phased expansion will take place over the next year:

• September 2026: Dr. Joshua Van Allen joins WellSpan and medical oncology services begin, including chemotherapy and infusion at the practice: WellSpan Medical Oncology & Hematology, a service of WellSpan Medical Group. The practice will be temporarily located on the first floor of WellSpan Evangelical Community Hospital, just steps from the hospital's main entrance, making it easy for patients to find and access.
• December 2026: Renovations begin on existing space on the health campus as WellSpan prepares for expanded oncology services and installation of advanced technology, including a linear accelerator used for radiation therapy.
• Spring 2027: A newly renovated cancer center is expected to open, offering a comprehensive cancer program that includes medical oncology, radiation oncology and infusion services in a modern, patient-centered environment.

A native of the greater Williamsport region, Dr. Joshua Van Allen brings specialized training in hematology and oncology and will play a key role in establishing WellSpan’s oncology presence in the region. His arrival marks an important milestone in the development of a locally based cancer care program designed to improve continuity of care and reduce the need for patients to seek treatment outside the region.

“By expanding these services and the ultimate connection to the WellSpan Cancer Institute, patients will benefit from the strength of an integrated cancer program that brings together expertise, evidence-based treatment, multidisciplinary collaboration and a coordinated approach to care,” said Dr. Nikhilesh Korgaonkar, vice president, WellSpan Health, and chief medical officer, WellSpan Cancer Institute. “This investment helps create a seamless experience for patients, from screening and diagnosis through treatment and survivorship.”

Through the WellSpan Cancer Institute, patients will have access to a comprehensive cancer program backed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists who collaborate across medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgery, imaging, pathology, genetics, supportive care and survivorship services. This integrated approach helps ensure patients benefit from coordinated treatment planning, access to leading clinical expertise and a consistent standard of care throughout every stage of their cancer journey. As services continue to expand locally, patients will benefit from the depth and resources of the WellSpan Cancer Institute while receiving more of their care closer to home.

For more information about oncology services, visit WellSpan.org/Cancer.