The year was 1981. Using radiation beams to target cancer was still an evolving science, and many in the Twin Cities medical community remained cautious.
Motivated by the unmet need of cancer patients to have access to innovative treatments, Dr. Robert Haselow, a respected radiation oncologist with a proven track record, and his colleague, Dr. Doug Olson, founded Minneapolis Radiation Oncology, MRO.
In November 1981, Minneapolis Radiation Oncology was incorporated, but Dr. Haselow kept his day job at the University of Minnesota. In January; 1982, Dr. Haselow launched into private practice at Methodist Hospital, marking the first long-term relationship for MRO. Within the year, the number of patients referred for treatment doubled and he was joined by Dr. Olson.
It did not take long for word of their excellent care and positive outcomes to spread. Soon, Dr. Haselow was receiving invitations from other Twin Cities hospitals to partner and build treatment centers on their campuses.
In December 1985, MRO began operating the West Bank Treatment Center near the University of Minnesota. In July 1985, MRO entered into a long-term partnership with Fairview to build and staff a radiation therapy center on the Southdale campus in Edina. Shortly thereafter the North Memorial Therapy Center opened in Robbinsdale.
In September 1991, Unity Hospital invited MRO to go into partnership on a new therapy center, which was followed by a string of new location openings, including Ridgeview, Brainerd, Ridges, St. Francis, Mercy, Regions, and New Richmond in Western Wisconsin.
Over the years MRO has aggressively recruited leaders in our field, finding top doctors and specialized care team members to staff our 11 convenient locations.
Our journey has had its challenges with financial risks and resistance to change. But we have always advocated for patient access to quality treatment close to home. As a result, our patients truly appreciate being able to see a radiation oncology specialist just a short drive from where they live or work.
Our vision, to turn fear into confidence for every patient, is why Minneapolis Radiation Oncology continues to be the Twin Cities’ leading provider of advanced radiation treatment for cancer patients.