Colon & Rectal Cancer Program

Our Approach

Our cancer experts collaborate with you to develop a tailored treatment plan to meet your medical and emotional needs. We focus on you as a whole person, providing a patient-centered experience.

At OSF HealthCare Cancer Institute, our cancer care teams take a comprehensive and collaborative approach to treating colorectal cancer. We follow the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines and provide the most up to date treatments based on clinical research.

After a diagnosis is made, a nurse navigator will begin coordinating your care. We understand you want to begin treatment right away.  We have designed processes to get a treatment plan in place quickly, including stacked testing in Peoria which allows you to have all imaging completed in one day. Our team of specialists, including gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, radiation and medical oncologists, radiologists and pathologists will discuss your case provide tailored recommendations for your treatment plan.

From education and screenings to minimally invasive treatments, your care team will treat more than your colorectal cancer – they’ll treat you. You’ll benefit from a wide array of supportive services seamlessly integrated into your care, like help with nutrition, finances and counseling.


Overall, the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 23 for men and 1 in 25 for women.

What is colorectal cancer?

Colon and rectal cancer - colorectal cancer - begins in the colon or rectum. They are often grouped together because of their similarities. The colon absorbs water from digested food, while the rectum stores waste before it exits the body. Changes in the cells lining these areas can form polyps, which may turn into cancer.
Learn More About Colorectal Cancer

Types of Colon & Rectal Cancers We Treat

At OSF HealthCare, we provide comprehensive care for a wide range of colorectal cancers. The OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria is proud to be a Nationally Accredited Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC), making it the first program to be accredited in Illinois.

Colorectal cancers we treat include:


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Your Care Team

Quality cancer treatment relies on you and your care team working together. At OSF HealthCare, we take a team-based approach, bringing together multiple colorectal cancer specialists to ensure you get the best possible care. Some of these specialists may include radiologists and pathologists, gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists.

They collaborate with your primary care provider, and are supported by an extended care team, including counselors, financial navigators, oncology dietitians and nurse navigators.

Other specialized providers and therapists, including pelvic floor therapists and ostomy nurses, work with you after your treatment.


Meet Our Providers
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Specialty Clinics

The OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria also offers specialized clinics, including:

  • High-Risk Genetic Clinic: Addresses hereditary cancer risks.
  • Intimacy Clinic: Helps manage intimacy concerns post-treatment.
  • Palliative Care Clinic: Supports symptom management.

Treatments We Offer

OSF Cancer Institute and our cancer centers offer a full range of services and treatment options. The types of treatment used will depend on the type of cancer and where it is located.

Services and treatments include:


Make an Appointment

Our cancer care team is waiting to connect you to care. Ask your provider for a referral or contact us by completing this appointment request form or calling 1-844-OSF 4-HOPE, 1-844-673-4467. We'll get started on the referral process right away.