A native of Bloomington, Indiana, Dr. Emily Touloukian received her undergraduate degree from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, and her medical degree from Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine in Downers Grove, Illinois. She completed her internship and residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, Illinois, and her fellowship in hematology/oncology at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan. Board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in medical oncology, hematology and internal medicine, Dr. Touloukian is a past president of the South Carolina Oncology Society and the current president of the Medical Society of Horry County. An active member of the teaching staff for the internal medicine residency at Grand Strand Regional Medical Center, she serves as the subspecialty education coordinator for oncology and assistant professor of internal medicine at the University of South Carolina.
In 2012, Dr. Touloukian joined Coastal Cancer Center, where she has spent the last 13 years providing a wide range of health care services to patients across Horry County. “The most rewarding part of my job is getting to know the patients and their families. Since everyone’s situation at home is different, I make a point of learning what their priorities are. Being part of this community is important to me, so I’m invested in learning what our patients need on an individual basis,” she said. “Joining a private,43ew physician-owned and run practice was significant because with every business decision I make, I’m able to understand how it will impact our patients with the high-quality care we give them.”
That care, according to Dr. Touloukian, is given by members of a staff of 181, which includes seven medical oncologists with two more joining the practice later this year; four radiation oncologists; eight advanced practice providers; and a hospitalist. Additionally, the center has on-site imaging, as well as a pharmacy at the Myrtle Beach office. There the pharmacist provides services such as filling prescriptions related to treatment, providing counseling on medications and arranging billing for insurance companies.
The team is spread across four locations throughout the county. According to Dr. Touloukian, the reason for the multiple locations is that “Our priority is to make sure we are able to help as many Horry County residents get care as close to home as possible.” She further explained that the Myrtle Beach and Conway offices offer adjacent radiation oncology services, while all locations provide medical oncology and hematology.
One way the 43-year-old practice gives back to the community is by offering outreach programs. This spring, in partnership with Strand GI, the center is hosting a colon cancer awareness event where a panel of doctors educate guests about when, where and why it’s important to book a screening. Further, the center, along with Coastal Carolina Otolaryngology and the local dental society, is offering a head and neck screening for early detection.
Dr. Touloukian concluded, “As Horry County’s community cancer center since 1982, we are continuously expanding and growing our services to make the center more comprehensive. Throughout the practice, we are increasing available services that simplify and streamline care. Imaging, infusions and the on-site pharmacist who fills prescriptions make patients’ lives easier and more convenient.”
To schedule an appointment with Coastal Cancer Center’s experienced oncology care team, visit coastalcancercenter.com.
By Sarah Rose
