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DESIGNED BY FAMILIES, FOR FAMILIES UPSTATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY'S new Cancer Center features patient-centered care, ensur- ing the facility meets patient expectations for convenience, resourcefulness and aesthetics. Patient-family advisory groups consisting of current and past patients and their loved ones provided input throughout the project. "We gathered adult and pediatric patients and asked them what they wanted from the new Cancer Center," says Richard Kilburg, MBA, Associate Administrator of Upstate Cancer Center. "The adults picked a theme of 'healing from nature,' while the young people selected a park theme for the pediatric area. Our advisory groups also helped us design the space so patients would have maximum convenience in getting to and from their appointments." Beauty for Healing Located in front of the Regional Oncology Center at Upstate, the Cancer Center is a newly constructed, LEED- silver-certified building. At 90,000 square feet, it features a gracious, open design with many large windows that allow plenty of access to natural light and wide views of the new Healing Garden. Input f rom c u r rent a nd for mer patients was integral to the design of the Cancer Center. Keeping the patients involved through the entire process greatly assisted the design team with the development of the patient-centered, healing environment. "The Healing Garden is on the roof between the main hospital and the Cancer Center," Kilburg explains. "It has a public section, as well as a private area where patients can enjoy the natural elements. Our adult infusion area overlooks the Healing Garden. We have individual and group infusion areas so patients can choose whether they want to be sociable — as many do — or spend time alone, looking out at the scenery." The children's infusion area, which is in the form of a large playroom, also has large windows overlooking the garden. Additionally, the Cancer Center will feature art by more than 30 local art- ists — more than 100 works of art in total. University Hospital requested pieces consistent with the building's overall theme: "Healing through Nature." When patients come through the doors, they may hear music rising through the three sto- ries that surround the atrium. A baby grand piano, the gift of a generous donor, graces the lobby, and a grant provides for the Center's music coordinator. "Certified music pr a c t it ioner s a n d students will play for individual patients or small groups upon request," Dr. Kohman says. "Our director of spiritual care plays the guitar and will share music with oncology patients and their families. The Upstate Choir will provide music for special occa- sions, and qualified volunteer musicians will provide ambient music during certain hours. "The excellent cancer treatment that Upstate Medical University has always provided the people of Central New York will now be available in a beautiful envi- ronment with enhanced support services and coordination," she adds. "We deliver incredible care to every patient, every day." Upstate Medical University and the generous gifts of donors have taken the long-standing vision and dream of cancer professionals at Upstate and turned them into reality. The new Cancer Center opens in July. T o l e a r n m o r e , p l e a s e v i s i t w w w.u p s t a t e.e d u /c a n c e r. ■ Richard Kilburg, MBA, Associate Administrator The four-season Healing Garden at the Cancer Center is planned to provide a peaceful view from all the infusion areas. COV ER FE AT UR E Vero Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy System (SBRT) 8 | Central New York MD NEWS ■ M D N E W S . CO M