LISTEN: Expansion to double size of White River Health’s cancer center.

White River Health President and CEO Steven Webb

White River Health has launched a major expansion of its Oncology and Infusion Center, a two-year project hospital officials say will significantly increase treatment capacity and improve the patient experience for cancer care in the region.

The project, which broke ground in mid-November, will more than double the clinic’s size from 4,831 to 11,649 square feet.

White River Health President and CEO Steven Webb said the additional space will enable the hospital to ensure timely appointments, improve follow-up care, and provide greater patient support as demand for oncology services grows.

A central component of the expansion is the infusion center, which will increase from 14 to 24 treatment chairs in a brighter, more open space overlooking a healing garden. Plans also include an updated oncology pharmacy, expanded work areas for clinical staff, improved privacy, and a covered entrance designed to protect patients during bad weather.

The construction will be completed in phases to allow the center to remain open, Webb said. Site preparation is scheduled to begin in December, with Cromwell Architects Engineers designing the project and FARCO serving as general contractor.

The White River Health Foundation has raised $5.4 million toward the project through a capital campaign supported by local businesses, foundations, and individual donors.

Webb recently had the opportunity to visit with White River Now’s Chad Whiteaker about the new expansion. Listen to their interview from Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ below:

Images: White River Health