N.C. Cancer Hospital opens with fanfare

For months, Kenneth Harris traveled three hours each direction from Hertford, N.C., to receive cancer care at UNC.

On Tuesday, he helped the University celebrate the opening of the N.C. Cancer Hospital, which public officials hail as a high-tech facility devoted to statewide cancer care and support.

The Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center hosted the dedication ceremony, which included a ribbon cutting and remarks by several UNC and state officials, including UNC-system President Erskine Bowles, Chancellor Holden Thorp and Gov. Bev Perdue.

The hospital — a state-of-the-art facility that patients, doctors and administrators say will revolutionize cancer care — has been under construction for four years.

“Today marks a red-letter day in North Carolina,” Perdue said. “We are reaffirming our brand one more time in our commitment to the health and care of our people.”

Harris, who served as a ribbon cutter in the ceremony, was also featured in the hospital’s photo exhibit, “The New Face of Cancer Care,” in the center’s lobby.

“The staff and their knowledge make a world of difference,” Harris said. “I can’t imagine how much better the treatment will be in a facility like this.”

“Any time someone is sick, there’s nervousness and apprehension, but this facility is nice and relaxing. It looks more like you’re going to a jazz concert than a hospital.”

The dedication also featured a ribbon display, video booth and live streaming of the ceremony online.

The new facility, which cost the state $180 million and a total of $207 million, is one of only 40 National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the country.

A comprehensive center, a facility with all services in one location, reduces traveling from the doctor’s office to the hospital or to other care facilities for patients.

“We are very fortunate to have the whole team here in the building to see the patients when they come, so that patients don’t have to drive from building to building to see different specialists,” Nurse Manager Sue Haney said.

A consolidated center is also convenient for those who commute to receive cancer care.

The facility features a “telemedicine” conference center, which allows cancer specialists to consult patients and each other without traveling. Dr. Shelton Earp, director of the cancer center, said the Internet communication system will help build relationships between patients and specialists, improving overall care.

Another feature of the hospital is the Patient and Family Resource Center, which offers educational resources, wigs, hats and scarves, and comfortable couches where patients can rest.

The Clinical Trials Unit of the hospital allows specialists to test drugs and analyze the results.

Dr. Richard Goldberg, physician-in-chief at the cancer hospital, said he hopes it will become a “magnet for people with cancer.”

“We want to be a resource to people by providing specialized services and collaborating with people where they live,” he said. “The best place for support is at home.”


Contact the University Editor at udesk@unc.edu.