UPMC consolidates cancer services in new Mechanicsburg facility

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UPMC opened the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center on the campus of UPMC West Shore in Mechanicsburg Wednesday, consolidating services and expanding access to clinical trials. 

The new facility at 2020 Technology Parkway will deliver comprehensive and personalized cancer care with a soothing and modern atmosphere designed to enhance the patient experience, UPMC said. 

“As part of the largest integrated community cancer network in the United States, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center focuses on bringing cancer expertise to the communities it serves,” said Dr. Charles Reninger, medical director of Hematology and Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa. “Through our comprehensive team care approach, patients in the Mechanicsburg region can get everything they need here, including access to the latest treatment and clinical trials, close to home.” 

The new facility includes the Rocco and Nancy Ortenzio Cancer Wing in honor of the significant contribution made by the local family to the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation to support cancer care in the region. 

With 38,000 square feet of newly renovated space, the once office space now houses an expanded cancer treatment facility that will address various cancer diseases. 

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center medical oncology care, infusion and lab services currently located at 2025 Tech Parkway and the gynecologic oncology services, located in Camp Hill, will move to the new facility, UPMC said. 

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center will offer laboratory services, genetic and nutritional counseling, palliative care, integrative oncology care, spiritual services and social work, the health network said. 

The facility includes exam rooms, procedure rooms, private infusion rooms, infusion pods, a women’s infusion space, offices, multipurpose rooms for activities, and a consultation room for patients, family and caregivers. 

UPMC said the new facility will allow for improved access to clinical trials. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is one of just 56 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the country, which provides treatment and access to hundreds of clinical trials.  

The clinical research team will be able to screen, qualify and enroll patients in the Mechanicsburg region for appropriate clinical trials at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, a process that would have previously required a trip to Pittsburgh. 

“This center is another example of UPMC’s commitment to delivering highly specialized services to give an exceptional experience to our patients and their families,” said David Gibbons, senior vice president, Health Services Division and regional president, UPMC in Central Pa. “We are grateful to Rocco and Nancy Ortenzio for their continued contributions to advance health care in this region.” 

The facility also houses integrative oncology which uses safe, evidence-based holistic and wellness practices as part of cancer treatment plans. UPMC said it provides physical, mental, and spiritual support throughout treatment and beyond.  

Along with standard cancer care, integrative oncology care addresses and improves symptoms and quality of life through movement, touch, diet and mindfulness, UPMC said. Patients can access various evidence-based holistic and wellness practices including acupuncture, massage therapy, Reiki and yoga. 

The new Cancer Statistics, 2024 report from the American Cancer Society shows while cancer deaths are declining overall, there are some alarming trends, including an increase in cancer rates among younger people.  

The report also showed progress against cancer is hampered by wide static cancer disparities. UPMC said the center is dedicated to building awareness around these disparities and providing patients with the specialized care, knowledge, and inspiration they need to boldly confront cancer.