Formerly a hospital for Shriner’s, Skanska successfully converted the existing facility into a cutting-edge center for blood cancer treatment and research. Photo Credit: University of Cincinnati Cancer Center

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Dynamic Cincinnati Blood Cancer Center Celebrates Grand Opening

HCO News Staff 1878 Views , ,

By HCO Staff

CINCINNATI, Ohio—Skanska, a leading construction and development firm, has announced the completion of the renovation of the new Blood Cancer Healing Center, a new space for patients served by the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center. This facility marks a historic milestone in cancer care, addressing the critical needs of the 1.6 million individuals affected by blood cancers in the U.S. annually.

The newly opened center marks a significant advancement in healthcare infrastructure and medical research. It stands as the nation’s most comprehensive blood cancer facility, uniquely offering every aspect of care—from inpatient and outpatient services to survivorship, integrative medicine, spiritual support, and cutting-edge research—all under one roof.

The center represents a significant step forward in the fight against blood cancer, offering patients access to the latest treatments and supporting researchers in their search for solutions. What makes this project even more unique is that here, patients receive access to world-class care and also receive a personalized care plan inclusive of whole-body wellness through the Osher Center for Integrative Health – one of only 11 in the world.

“Skanska is grateful to have been part of this transformative project,” said Chris Hopper, executive vice president and general manager for Skanska USA Building. “Our team has worked hard to make sure the new center offers a modern setting for both treatment and research. This collaboration shows our dedication to improving healthcare facilities and providing high-quality spaces that support medical discoveries and patient care.”

Champlin Architecture served as the lead architect on the project.

“Champlin had the privilege and honor of working on the UC Blood Cancer Healing Center which will provide a comprehensive approach to blood cancer treatment,” said Priya Dhuru, Principal with Champlin Architecture. “The Center will focus on multiple levels of cancer care and each portion of the building is an integral part in providing the community with a one-stop location for comprehensive care of all types of blood cancers.”

The 218,000-square-foot renovation project includes significant building upgrades and enhancements to meet UC Health and the University of Cincinnati’s standards. Formerly a hospital for Shriner’s, Skanska successfully converted the existing facility into a cutting-edge center for blood cancer treatment and research. Additionally, the project involved renovating the adjacent 197,000-square-foot parking garage, providing improved access and convenience for patients, staff, and visitors.

The fourth and fifth floors of the facility will further expand to include a retail pharmacy, blood cancer research labs, integrative medicine and survivorship wellness programs to complement patient care.

Key Features of the project include:

• Inpatient and outpatient care settings, including 30 inpatient beds
• Outpatient and infusion clinics.
• Survivorship and supportive services.
• Access to novel therapies and cutting-edge medical options, including cellular and stem cell therapies, through an Advanced Therapies unit.
• Integrative health therapies, including group wellness spaces, to support patients at every stage, mitigate side effects during treatment, and enhance overall quality of life.
• Extended care area will offer round-the-clock outpatient symptom support for all cancer patients.
• Transformation of the Former Shriners Hospital: The building has been converted into a specialized center for blood cancer treatment and research. This includes upgrading MEPFP systems, elevators, IT infrastructure, security, signage, hardware, and parking controls.
• Renovation of the Adjacent Parking Garage: The existing 197,000-square-foot parking garage has been renovated to enhance functionality and accessibility.
• Occupancy Details: The University of Cincinnati will occupy the fourth and fifth floors for research purposes, while UC Health will utilize the remaining three floors for treatment and patient care.
• The fourth and fifth floors of the facility will further expand to include a retail pharmacy, blood cancer research labs, integrative medicine and survivorship wellness programs to complement patient care. (Renderings of the fourth and fifth floors are included in packaging).
• Exterior Enhancements: The existing masonry facade has been sealed and restored, preserving the building’s historical integrity while ensuring modern functionality.

The Blood Cancer Healing Center’s world-class, women-led research team and care teams are at the forefront of cancer research, as blood cancer research has led to breakthrough discoveries for other forms of cancer.

The vision of John C. Byrd, MD, a leading figure in blood cancer care and research globally, the Blood Cancer Healing Center offers care in an accessible setting that feels like home for patients. “The Blood Cancer Healing Center embodies a new chapter in cancer care. With personalized, holistic care and pioneering research coming together under one roof, we are not just treating patients; we are giving them hope for a brighter future,” Dr. Byrd, a University of Cincinnati Cancer Center physician researcher, stated.