Asante plans one-stop outpatient cancer center
The first of its kind in Southern Oregon
Asante is planning a $64 million outpatient cancer center east of the Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center campus to meet the growing demand for cancer services in Southern Oregon and Northern California.
The approximately 80,000-square-foot building will house all outpatient cancer services in one location, making treatment more convenient for patients. Currently, cancer patients in Southern Oregon must go to several different places to get lab tests, imaging, radiation, chemotherapy, doctor consultations and other services.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for patients to get the services they need, all under one roof,” says Kristi Blackhurst, vice president of operations at Asante Rogue Regional.
Over 2,000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed each year in Jackson and Josephine counties. That number is expected to grow by nearly 20% over the next 10 years.
The new building will include:
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An infusion center with semi-private spaces and expansive views
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Expanded nurse navigator and social work programs to help guide patients through treatment
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Support services, including diagnostic imaging, retail pharmacy, laboratory and nutrition services
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Complementary care, including facilitated support groups, oncological massage and a donation resource center
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Office space for specialists to consult with patients and their families
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Telemedicine, bone marrow clinic and gynecological oncology
The new center also will have the latest radiation oncology technology and treatment modalities and will include offices for medical oncologists from Hematology Oncology Associates in a partnership with Asante. This partnership also includes radiation oncology and other services for Josephine County patients at Spears Cancer Center at Asante Three Rivers Medical Center.
The project is still in the preliminary stage, and Asante representatives have been meeting with patients and medical providers to gather input on what services and features they’d like included.
“One of their most urgent requests is for more space in the infusion room,” says Maggie Schultz, director of cancer services at Asante Rogue Regional. “In the new center, they’ll have places for privacy, rest and relaxation.”
The Asante Foundation is launching a $10 million campaign to support the new cancer center. “This is one of the most attractive philanthropic opportunities in our community’s history,” said Andrea Reeder, campaign director at Asante Foundation. “We are launching AsanteForward, a bold campaign raising $50 million to redefine cancer care for patients in our region along with other impactful projects and programs.”
The Asante Board of Directors approved the project at its Sept. 10 meeting. The Medford Planning Commission on Aug. 22 voted unanimously to grant Asante’s request to rezone the property to C-S/P (commercial-service/professional). Construction is set to begin early next year.
