On Friday, April, 11th the board of trustees at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) approved the construction of a new cancer hospital in Charleston. The board also authorized the development of an outpatient surgery center, along with space for clinics and medical offices.
The cancer center is expected to take about five years to complete, officials noted, with the ambulatory surgery building slated to open in 2028.
While no cost estimates for the projects are available, a university spokesperson confirmed that MUSC leadership is eager to expand cancer services in the state, ensuring that patients no longer need to leave South Carolina for treatment.
Dr. Raymond N. DuBois, Director of the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center, stated, “This new hospital will represent a transformative leap forward for patients across South Carolina who rely on world-class cancer care.”
“Our new facility will greatly expand access to advanced cancer services, enhance our ability to recruit and retain top-tier clinicians, accelerate the translation of lab research into meaningful outcomes, and move us closer to achieving National Cancer Institute (NCI) Comprehensive Cancer Center designation—the highest level of excellence in cancer research,” DuBois added.
The new cancer hospital will offer both inpatient and outpatient services, including surgeries for patients requiring hospital stays and those needing outpatient procedures. It will also provide chemotherapy and infusion services, cancer imaging, rehabilitation, and palliative care.
Charles W. Schulze, Chairman of MUSC’s board, emphasized the importance of expanding cancer care within the state. “This is a monumental event for the entire state,” Schulze said. “Our goal is to build a facility that rivals the top cancer centers nationwide, ensuring no one has to leave South Carolina for cancer treatment.”
South Carolina lawmakers have allocated $15 million to help MUSC secure its NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center designation.
The new hospital will also strengthen MUSC’s research capabilities. The Hollings Cancer Center currently boasts over 150 cancer scientists and sponsors more than 200 clinical trials across the state.
DuBois expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am profoundly grateful to MUSC leadership and our board of trustees for their bold vision and unwavering dedication.”