Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

History of Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

The Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center (MEDVAMC) started in 1944 as a naval hospital in Houston, Texas. It was used for active military medical care. By 1949, it became the United States Veterans Administration Hospital. In addition to being a hospital for veterans, it was also a teaching hospital. Through an affiliation with Baylor College of Medicine, it offers residency training and specialized care for veterans.

In 1991, the hospital finished renovations and reopened a modernized campus. The sprawling 119-acre campus now features 350 acute care beds. It was renamed in 2003 to honor Dr. Michael E. DeBakey, a surgeon at this center. He devoted decades of service to veterans and made significant contributions to medicine.

Today, MEDVAMC is one of the top hospitals in the Veterans Affairs (VA) system. It provides comprehensive care and training while continuing its long legacy of excellence.

Mesothelioma Care at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

MEDVAMC offers specialized mesothelioma care as part of its cancer program. This program is accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC) and takes a multidisciplinary approach. Medical professionals work together to develop custom treatment plans. A mesothelioma care team may include specialists like oncologists, surgeons, pathologists and support staff.

MEDVAMC’s cancer program offers everything from diagnostics to treatment and recovery. Depending on the patient, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation. Patient comfort and symptoms can also be managed with palliative care.

This center's cancer program works closely with Baylor College of Medicine. This can offer access to Baylor’s Mesothelioma Treatment Center, helping patients find clinical trials and receive research-driven care. Patients may access doctors, like thoracic and surgical oncologists, who specialize in mesothelioma. They can also benefit from advanced technology, multidisciplinary expertise and research collaborations.

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center Specializations

• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy
• Multimodal (combined) therapies
• Palliative care
• Radiation

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center Accreditations

• American Nurses Credentialing Center
• American Psychological Association
• CoC Accreditation
• College of American Pathologists
• Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing
• Rehabilitation Accreditation Commission
• The Joint Commission

Patient and Family Services at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

Outside of treatment, MEDVAMC offers a wide range of support services. These are designed to assist patients through cancer care and beyond. These programs help navigate treatment and daily life with medical, emotional and practical support. Patient services available at MEDVAMC include:

• Spiritual Support
• Community Care
• Community Resources
• Lodging Services
• Health Promotion & Disease Prevention
• Support Groups and Classes
• Traveling Veteran Services

Patient and Family Services in the Houston Area

In the broader Houston area, patients and families affected by mesothelioma have access to many other support services. These valuable resources include community-based support groups, oncology counseling, compassionate hospice care and help with lodging.