Phase I of the Warren General Hospital Cancer Care Center renovation project was completed in late November.
The work is designed to provide "patient safety, comfort, and efficiency," according to Terry Cook, director of oncology services.
The additions also include a new conference room that will house state of the art technology which will enable doctors to host conference calls and consultations via webinar. Furthermore, the American Cancer Society, physician offices, a staff break room, and expansions to the parking area have been added during this phase of the project.
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Times Observer photo by Brian Collins
Phase II next
While the move-in process is well underway in the newest wing of the WGH Cancer Care Center, outside construction will begin Phase II of the renovations in the spring. The front entrance and lobby area of the existing structure will be redesigned to offer more comfort and hospitality for patients.
Phase II, which is expected to be completed by next spring, will include renovations to the front entrance and lobby area.
"It's unbelievable what that place has done for this community and this organization," said WGH CEO John Papalia. "The quality of the medical staff and the treatment staff, being able to walk people through on a tour and tell them we have all oncology-certified nurses, and watching the care that's provided over there... I can't wait for you to see that building when it's done and the environment it will be for care."
The additions to the Cancer Care Center were possible, according to Papalia, because of the success of the "Here We Grow " campaign in which the goal of $1.75 million was exceeded.
"It was all the community," said Jim Fiscus, director of diagnostic services, "and now we'll be able to expand our care. People won't have to drive to Erie anymore to receive the treatment they need."
The number of patient exam rooms will double in addition to the expansion of the chemotherapy infusion area.
As Phase II of the project gets underway, patients will be required to use the entrance on the south side of the building. They will need to enter the parking lot via Wayne Street.