When you’re staring down a cancer diagnosis, the last thing you want is a long commute to a cold, sterile city hospital. Trust me, I get it. People in Central Jersey used to think they had to trek into Manhattan or Philadelphia for "the good stuff"—the clinical trials, the heavy-hitter specialists, the cutting-edge tech.
But honestly? That hasn't been the case for a while.
The Steeplechase Cancer Center in Somerville NJ has basically changed the game for local care. Located right on the campus of Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Somerset, it’s this 63,000-square-foot facility that feels weirdly... peaceful? It’s three stories of high-end medicine tucked away in a spot that doesn't feel like a factory.
It opened back in 2007. Since then, it’s become a bit of a powerhouse, partly because of its connection to the Rutgers Cancer Institute. That’s a big deal. Rutgers is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the state. Being an affiliate means Steeplechase isn't just a "neighborhood clinic." It’s a bridge to some of the most advanced research in the world, right there in Somerset County.
What's actually inside the Steeplechase Cancer Center in Somerville NJ?
Walk into the lobby, and you’ll notice it doesn't smell like bleach and anxiety. They’ve gone out of their way to make it "patient-focused," which is a buzzword, sure, but here it actually means something.
Everything is under one roof.
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That sounds simple, but if you’ve ever had to drive to one building for blood work, another for a PET scan, and a third for a specialist appointment, you know it’s a nightmare. At Steeplechase, you’ve got:
- Medical Oncology and Infusion: They recently doubled their infusion capacity. They also added scalp cooling therapy, which is huge for people trying to keep their hair during chemo.
- Radiation Oncology: Using stuff like stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). It’s basically "sniper" radiation—super precise.
- The Sanofi US Breast Care Program: This is a big one. It’s one of the few in Jersey to get full accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).
- Imaging: PET/CT scanners and digital mammography that are top-tier.
The doctors you’ll see
It’s not just about the machines. You want to know who's actually making the calls. Dr. Eshan Patel is the Medical Director there, and he’s known for gastrointestinal and thoracic oncology. Then there’s Dr. Kathleen Toomey, who’s been a staple in the NJ oncology scene for over 30 years.
They use a multidisciplinary approach. Basically, a bunch of experts—surgeons, radiologists, oncologists—all sit in a room and argue (politely) about your specific case to find the best plan. It’s better than one person just guessing.
The stuff nobody talks about: Support and extras
Cancer is expensive. It’s exhausting. And it’s lonely.
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One of the coolest things about the Steeplechase Cancer Center in Somerville NJ is the Sanofi US Wellness Boutique. It’s not just a gift shop. They help with things like wigs, prostheses, and specialized clothing. It’s about dignity, really.
And then there’s the money. The center actually provides financial assistance for basic needs—we’re talking groceries, medications, even house cleaning. That money often comes from the community. Ever heard of the Far Hills Race Meeting? That famous horse race is a massive donor. They recently committed $1.25 million to the center. That’s why it’s named "Steeplechase."
Wellness and "Vibes"
They have a Resource Library with over 200 books and DVDs. There’s a healing garden. They offer yoga, reiki, and meditation.
Does yoga cure cancer? No. Does it make you feel like a human being instead of a patient for 60 minutes? Absolutely.
Clinical trials: The "Secret" Perk
Most people think clinical trials are a "last resort." That’s a myth. Often, a trial is a way to get tomorrow's medicine today. Because of the Rutgers partnership, patients in Somerville can get into trials for breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers without driving to New Brunswick or NYC.
In 2023, their data showed they were hitting quality benchmarks—like starting colon cancer chemo within the recommended window—way more consistently than many other centers in the state.
Why the location matters
Somerset County isn't exactly a transit hub. Having this level of care at 30 Rehill Avenue is a massive relief for residents in Bridgewater, Hillsboro, and Raritan. Parking is easier. The staff usually lives in the area. It feels like a community effort because, well, it is.
Actionable Steps for New Patients
If you or a family member just got a diagnosis and you're looking at the Steeplechase Cancer Center in Somerville NJ, here is how to actually move forward:
- Get your records together: Don't wait for them to be transferred. Grab physical or digital copies of your pathology reports and any recent scans.
- Call the Patient Navigator: This is a free service. They are basically your "inside person" who helps coordinate appointments and explains what the heck is going on. Call 908-685-2200 to start.
- Check the Clinical Trial list: Even if you just started treatment, ask Dr. Patel or Dr. Toomey if there’s a study that fits your profile. You can also look them up on the Rutgers Cancer Institute website.
- Visit the Wellness Boutique early: Don’t wait until you’re feeling drained. Go in, see what they have, and get fitted for any accessories you might need later.
- Look into the Tobacco Quit Center: If you smoke, this is one of the best resources in the county to help you stop, which significantly improves treatment outcomes.
The reality is that cancer sucks. But having a place like Steeplechase nearby means you don't have to fight the traffic on I-287 just to fight the disease. You can get world-class treatment and still be home in time for dinner.