The Medical University of South Carolina’s hospital system is requesting $350 million from state legislators to fund its planned new cancer hospital in downtown Charleston.
MUSC’s governing board approved the project in April, envisioning a top-tier cancer center adjacent to Rutledge Tower on the university’s campus. At the time, the cost was not disclosed. MUSC is now turning to the General Assembly, seeking taxpayer funding to avoid taking on significant debt.
The investment request comes as MUSC pursues a Comprehensive Cancer Center designation from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). If approved, it would be South Carolina’s first such center, allowing patients to access top-level cancer care without traveling to North Carolina, Georgia, or Tennessee.
Currently recognized as a Clinical Cancer Center, MUSC could see an increase in NCI research funding—from the current $11 million five-year grant to as much as $14 million—with the upgraded designation.
According to MUSC’s budget submission:
“This investment is crucial for South Carolina, as it facilitates the development of lifesaving treatments, attracts top-tier scientists and jobs, and advances innovations to reduce the state’s cancer burden and mortality rates.”
The university expects a strong return on investment, though details have not yet been shared.
While South Carolina’s cancer incidence rate is below the national average, its mortality rate remains higher, underscoring the need for expanded research, clinical care, and community outreach.
There are currently 57 Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the U.S. MUSC plans to apply for the designation in 2028, with the center slated to open in 2030. The upgrade will require deeper research capabilities and expanded statewide engagement.
The Legislature has already supported MUSC’s ambitions, providing:
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$5 million in annual funding beginning this fiscal year
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$10 million in recurring budget support since 2022
MUSC’s existing cancer center includes 230+ researchers, 200+ clinical trials, and a $50 million research portfolio. The new hospital is expected to feature 50–100 inpatient beds, outpatient services, surgical suites, stem cell transplantation, imaging facilities, chemotherapy and radiation services, a laboratory and pharmacy, and pain management and rehabilitation programs.
Beyond Charleston, MUSC is expanding cancer care statewide with new clinics in Summerville, Florence, and potentially Orangeburg.
This request comes amid MUSC’s broader expansion, including the acquisition of community hospitals, major new facility construction, and ongoing negotiations to take a controlling interest in Tidelands Health’s Grand Strand hospitals. The system is also positioned to purchase Roper St. Francis’ downtown hospital property when it relocates in 2029.