St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor today announced plans for a $24-million, 66,00-square-foot cancer center designed to deliver comprehensive cancer care for patients. Groundbreaking is set for September with completion slated for Nov. 2018.
“This new state-of-the-art facility will help cancer patients and their families by combining the very best in prevention, screening, research, treatment, and support all in one location,” says Dave Brooks, president of St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor and Livingston hospitals. “This significant care delivery redesign will improve patient experience across all of our west market region of Canton Township, Brighton, Chelsea, and Ann Arbor.”
Since the Robert H. and Judy Dow Alexander Cancer Center become the area’s first comprehensive cancer center in 1993, the number of new patients diagnosed and treated for cancer at the center has tripled to more than 3,400 patients in 2016. The transformation will allow St. Joseph’s to deliver cancer care, including updated medical technologies, research-driven treatments, and revolutionized clinical and support services.
The renovation will begin with a redesigned entrance featuring a two-story glass atrium, where patient ambassadors will assist patients to a central registration area where information regarding their day’s visit will be available. Patient ambassadors will also be available throughout the cancer center to ensure patients are connected to the various services needed throughout their treatment.
The cancer center’s main floor will feature an expanded infusion suite with 22 private bays and a view of a serenity garden to promote patient’s comfort. Additionally, nurse navigators, genetic counselors, dieticians, chaplains, social workers, and on-site pharmacy for chemotherapy services will be located on the main floor. Patients will be seen on the second floor where St. Joseph’s oncologists, surgeons, and clinical staff will work together for patient care.
The new lower level will also become a dedicated space for St. Joseph’s National Cancer Institute Oncology Research Program, where clinical research staff and the Cancer Care Delivery program provide patients with the latest research trials. Conference rooms and videoconferencing capabilities will also be created.
In addition to $24 million in Trinity Health capital funds, St. Joseph’s Ann Arbor Development team, joined by community members and physicians, is conducting a $10 million campaign to support capital, operations and endowment needs for the Cancer Center.
