Thoughtfully designed cancer care

The Penn State Health Cancer Center at Hampden Medical Center resolved a critical challenge for the health system: oncology services had outgrown existing space and operated across multiple locations, creating inefficiencies for care teams and unnecessary complexity for patients. The completed 44,000-square-foot center brings comprehensive cancer care together in one location, expanding capacity while simplifying the patient experience.

The new center consolidates medical oncology, radiation oncology, and a breast care clinic within a single, purpose-built environment. Medical oncology includes 24 exam rooms, 36 infusion stations, and a dedicated injection room. Infusion areas offer a mix of open and private settings, giving patients the option to choose connection with others, or space for solitude and quiet reflection. Provider workspaces are incorporated within the department to support efficient workflows and close clinical collaboration.

Radiation oncology supports treatment of outpatients and inpatients with four exam rooms, two holding bays, one linear accelerator vault, and a CT simulator, with shell space for a future Linac. The space supports the delivery of advanced treatments on the same day as provider visits and medical oncology care.

The breast surgery clinic features four exam rooms, two PT and OT rooms, and a procedure room organized into care pods that support team-based delivery. The clinic integrates seamlessly with the existing Hampden Medical Center Women's Health department to support early detection and multidisciplinary cancer care when needed.

Patient comfort and clarity guided the planning approach. A dedicated entry and public lobby for the cancer center, separate from the breast surgery clinic, creates a thoughtful and welcoming arrival experience. Integrated satellite pharmacy and laboratory blood draw reduce movement across the facility and support coordinated care. Exam and treatment rooms use layered lighting, acoustic privacy, and calming finishes to create a setting that feels supportive rather than clinical.

Throughout the center, abundant natural light, views to the surrounding landscape, and carefully scaled spaces reflect a focus on dignity, choice, and ease at every stage of treatment.