Oasis of Hope

In 1963, the late Dr. Ernesto Contreras, Sr. opened Oasis of Hope Hospital and began a healing tradition known as the Total Care Approach. Dr. Ernesto Contreras, Sr. has been recognized in multiple publications as a pioneer in body, mind and spirit medicine. At the foundation of his philosophy were two principles inspired by Hippocrates, the father of medicine, and Jesus Christ: (1) First, do no harm; and (2) Love your patient as you love yourself.

Dr. Ernesto Contreras, Sr. taught his medical staff to never prescribe cancer treatments that would destroy the patient’s quality of life. He also insisted that Oasis of Hope physicians offer therapies that they would be willing to take themselves. The integration of natural and conventional therapies with emotional and spiritual counseling, along with his emphasis on the doctor-patient relationship are the principle reasons why more than 100,000 patients from 55 nations have come to Oasis of Hope for cancer treatment in the last 45 years.

Dr. Ernesto Contreras, Sr. believed that to be effective as a physician, one had to blend art and science. When treating cancer patients, Dr. Ernesto Contreras looked beyond the obvious. He would find the root needs of his patients and develop personalized therapies to address the unique circumstances of each. His commitment to treat patients with professionalism, ethics and compassion made him a beloved doctor. As a researcher, Dr. Ernesto Contreras, Sr. explored hundreds of types of cancer treatment in his constant quest to help his patients. His untiring determination inspired his staff and patients alike.

At age 88, after 62 years of medical practice, Dr. Ernesto Contreras went on to be with the Lord. Two of his significant contributions to humanity were his model for integrative medicine and the development of a tremendous platform for the advancement of cancer research, treatment and control. The Oasis of Hope is home to the healing legacy of Dr. Ernesto Contreras, Sr. and the staff continues to use the Total Care Approach and develop effective protocols for comprehensive cancer treatment management.

Total Care Approach

Oasis of Hope practitioners are not satisfied with the traditional goal of oncology, which is tumor destruction. When reviewing cancer survival rates, it becomes apparent that focusing solely on tumor destruction is not enough. Our physicians take an aggressive and individualized approach to cancer treatment, combining the latest conventional and alternative cancer treatments. This approach, along with emotional and spiritual support plus diet and exercise, gives people who are fighting cancer new options and hope.

Respect and Dignity for All

The Oasis of Hope Hospital is committed to responding to each patient’s total needs: physical, emotional and spiritual. Patient care management, counseling, pastoral care, specialized support groups, education and social services are all considered integral components to the care that is provided.