New Hanover Medical Center
Zimmer Cancer Center Renovation
The existing Zimmer Cancer Center was created in the early 1990s and occupies approximately 25,000 SF. To improve care to patients, a local oncology practice merged their services with the hospital-based comprehensive cancer center. The expansion and renovation accommodates the increased demand and provides efficiency for staff and comfort for patients and families.
This 51,100 SF project expands the existing chemo treatment area to include four private treatment rooms and 46 open treatment areas. Radiation Oncology has undergone a finishes upgrade in the same location. Additional renovations include adding a six exam- room pod to medical oncology, expanding the pharmacy and phlebotomy space, and providing associated support spaces. An addition to the building provides a new entrance and identity for the cancer center. The new lobby, registration function and patient inspiration area provide comfort and resources which were not provided in the existing center.
LOCATION: Wilmington, NC
SIZE: 51,100 SF
COMPLETED: 2016
A Healing Journey
In an effort to understand the unique issues and priorities of the client, the design team engaged with healthcare providers, patients, and their families, facilitating several different focus groups for stakeholder input. Through this process, the nursing staff and a patient advisory committee generously shared their knowledge and personal stories to help the architects design the best possible spaces for healing.
NHRMC has an in-house team focused on continuous improvement of operational efficiencies. This team led a Lean Design effort focused on 3-P planning which included the physicians, nursing and clinical staff, oncology support services, administrative managers, hospital facilities personnel, and the contractor. 3-P refers to “Production, Preparation, Process,” and the resulting patient-focused operational model which emerged from this series of intensive charrettes was reviewed and refined by the entire team in order to develop the best possible space and workflow for the clinical staff.
Client-Driven Design
In planning for the infusion bays in the heart of the space, the patient advisory group shared firsthand knowledge of the chemotherapy experience and offered invaluable insight into space planning and design for this important program area. During user group meetings, the patients recommended a range of choices for the infusion bays along the full spectrum from private to open. Rather than cookie-cutter spaces with a clinical feel, the bays offer views to nature and abundant natural light and include private spaces, semi-private bays with transparent enclosures, double bays for mutual support, and “fast track” areas in a more open environment. Engaging family caregivers in the treatment process is important for comfort and healing, and the infusion bays provide space to support these caregivers. The simple act of choosing the optimal space for treatment can be a comfort to patients in a situation which can feel beyond their control.
