Anticipating increases in the number of cancer patients in the U.S., Mayo Clinic Health System is investing $9 million in the expansion of its cancer center in New Prague, Minnesota, with construction scheduled to begin in early 2024.

The project is phase II of a two-part overhaul of the campus. Phase I included a $5 million expansion of its operating room and the introduction of several new surgical specialties.

For Phase II, Mayo will create an integrated, full-service oncology department in New Prague capable of providing clinical care, chemotherapy, immuno and targeted therapies, genetic counseling, nutrition guidance, social work assistance, and pharmacy support. It also will install eight infusion therapy bays, two private rooms with 10 beds for cancer and noncancer infusions, and five exam rooms for oncology and hematology patients.

"Our plans include creating additional capacity for patients, modernizing the facility, and improving efficiency by bringing the cancer and infusion therapy practices together into a combined location," Dr. James Hebl, regional vice president of Mayo Clinic Health System in Southwest Minnesota, told HCB News.

Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit healthcare organization that cares for over 1.3 million patients annually. The New Prague location became part of the organization in 2011 when it acquired Queen of Peace Hospital, which became part of its system of community-based medical facilities, Mayo Clinic Health System.

According to Hebl, patients in need of cancer care are expected to grow nearly 9% over the next five years. The renovations will improve patient flow and wayfinding, and improve patient experiences by enhancing privacy and facilitating infection control.

They will also include a dedicated provider office, nurse station, and break room.

While more details will not be available until the project is finalized, renovations are expected to begin in late spring.

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