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Published on March 18, 2021

MidMichigan Announces Plans to Build Comprehensive Cancer Center

Photo rendering of the new Cancer Center, slated to begin Spring 2022.

Rendering courtesy of Hord Coplan Macht

The MidMichigan Health Board of Directors has approved a $61.5 million construction project to build a Comprehensive Cancer Center on the campus of MidMichigan Medical Center – Midland. The Michigan Department of Community Health must approve MidMichigan’s certificate of need (CON) before the 115,000-square-foot project can begin. Once approval is received, the two-year construction project is slated to begin in spring 2022.

“We all know someone who has been touched by cancer. Our vision for a Comprehensive Cancer Center here at MidMichigan brings cancer care into one location, creating an exceptional patient experience with all the necessary care our patients need under one roof,” said Diane Postler-Slattery, Ph.D., FACHE, president and CEO, MidMichigan Health. “The new Center will give us the space for multiple specialists to see the patient on the same day, collaborate and provide the patient a plan of care without multiple appointments at multiple locations.”

The Center, to be positioned adjacent to the Medical Center, will be located at the site of the existing Towsley Building. The structure and footprint of the Towsley Building will remain; however, the interior will be rebuilt to meet the needs of the new center.

“The number truly is staggering. A newly diagnosed cancer patient has more than 100 medical visits within the first year following their diagnosis,” said Joan Herbert, Pharm.D., oncology service line director for MidMichigan Health. “In fact, it is not uncommon for a patient to have a laboratory draw, diagnostic imaging test, an office visit with their medical oncologist, as well as chemotherapy and radiation treatment all within a single day’s visit. This can be stressful and overwhelming for both the patient and their family member or caregiver. The new Center allows us to consolidate our services and provide care in a one-stop location that is designed with comfortable amenities and surrounded by warm, finishing touches.”

MidMichigan Health offers comprehensive cancer care focused on breast, lung, esophageal, colon, genitourinary and gynecologic cancers. The health system’s program includes access to a team of 23 providers specializing in cancer care, certified oncology nurses, radiation therapists, the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology, clinical trials and a full range of support services.

MidMichigan’s cancer program also includes assistance for patients and their families through social workers, care navigators, genetic counselors, nutritionists, physical therapists, mental health professionals, financial counseling and connections to support groups or other individuals facing similar circumstances.

The cancer program at MidMichigan is accredited with commendation by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, is a recipient of the Accreditation for Program Excellence (APEx) from the American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology, and its Breast Health Program at MidMichigan’s Center for Women's Health is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a program administered by the American College of Surgeons and certified by the Quality Breast Center of Excellence by the National Quality Measures for Breast Centers.

“At MidMichigan, we offer a full continuum of cancer care and this new facility will allow us to provide an environment where that care is seamless, coordinated and convenient for our patients and their families,” said Herbert. “When a person hears the word cancer, we want to be their go-to-place for care by offering the latest technology and the brightest medical and surgical talent at our Comprehensive Cancer Center – close to home.”

The MidMichigan Health Foundation will be raising funds to support the building project. Donations will be accepted online at www.midmichigan.org/cancercenter or by calling (989) 839-1932. Those interested in more information on MidMichigan’s comprehensive cancer program may visit www.midmichigan.org/cancer.