The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) has announced plans to construct a new cancer hospital and medical office building in Charleston, which will be the state’s only dedicated cancer hospital. The new facility will replace the aging Rutledge Tower and aims to improve cancer care, research, and prevention across South Carolina.
New Cancer Hospital to Be Built at Rutledge Tower’s Parking Lot
The planned cancer hospital will be located on the parking lot next to Rutledge Tower in Charleston. This new hospital will provide advanced cancer care services, including surgeries, stem cell transplants, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and clinical trials. With an emphasis on integrating both inpatient and outpatient services, the hospital aims to provide comprehensive care in one place.
The Growing Need for Cancer Care in South Carolina
The decision to build a new cancer hospital comes as the number of cancer cases in South Carolina continues to rise. According to MUSC Health CEO, Dr. Patrick Cawley, this increase is partly due to more people moving to South Carolina, and partly due to the state’s high cancer burden. The new cancer hospital is seen as a necessary step to meet the increasing demand for cancer treatment and to offer cutting-edge research and prevention options.
Replacing the Old Rutledge Tower
Rutledge Tower, which has been in operation for many years, will be demolished to make space for the new cancer hospital. Dr. Cawley mentioned that the current building is outdated and not suitable for modern healthcare needs. The new cancer hospital will feature state-of-the-art facilities, and all services currently offered at Rutledge Tower will be relocated to the new building.
New Medical Office Building and Surgery Center
In addition to the cancer hospital, MUSC will also build a medical office building with clinics and an outpatient surgery center at 334 Calhoun St. This facility will replace services that are currently provided at Rutledge Tower.
Construction on the ambulatory clinical facilities is expected to begin in about a year, with plans to open by 2028. The cancer hospital is expected to be completed in five years, with construction likely starting within the next 18 to 24 months.
The new cancer hospital in Charleston will be a major milestone in the fight against cancer in South Carolina. With its comprehensive services and focus on modern healthcare, the hospital aims to transform cancer treatment and research in the state. By replacing the aging Rutledge Tower and offering advanced outpatient and inpatient care, MUSC hopes to improve the quality of life for cancer patients in South Carolina and beyond.
