UTHealth Northeast – The Cancer Treatment and Prevention Center

WHR Architects focused on creating a healing environment at The Cancer Treatment and Prevention Center to address one’s body, mind, and spirit, incorporating major design elements to support the patient experience. The project also provided an opportunity for a new “modern” face to be presented to visitors.

The Center is a 89,911 sf facility developed on the existing UTHealth Northeast (formerly named UTHealth Science Center at Tyler) campus. The new building provides for classrooms, amphitheater, and medical library on Level 3; breast center, surgical suite, GI clinic, and specialty clinic space on Level 2; and a 27,970 sf oncology clinic on Level 1. Levels 2 and 3 are currently being finished out. Medical oncology includes 12 infusion bays (eight semi-private and four private) with the flexibility to grow to 18 bays in the future. The infusion bays provide patients with control over privacy, socialization, views, lighting, and positive distractions.

The entry to the Cancer Center is easily identifiable as a destination point and easy to navigate from the parking lot. This separate, dedicated drop-off canopy and front door to the oncology center provides convenience for patients and family. The reception area is warm and inviting, with a two-story glass wall that allows for natural light to illuminate the space as well as views to the outside, providing an uplifting sense of well being. Personal comfort and personal choices reduce stress for the patient and family, and the waiting area incorporates amenities such as comfortable seating, a soothing aquarium, and a coffee bar area, all in support of the human touch.