City: Albuquerque, NM

Category: Relocation

Telephone: (505) 272-4946

Address: 1201 Camino de Salud NE

Description: Since 2005, this facility has been a National Cancer Institute–designated cancer center, one of only 65 designated centers in the country and the only center in New Mexico. One criterion for NCI-designated centers is scientific excellence, and the UNM Cancer Center is the state’s leading facility for advanced research and clinical trials, paired with innovative treatment. In August 2009 the center opened the first phase of its spectacular new $90 million cancer center, having outgrown its existing facilities. In 2008 the center served 7,600 patients in 90,000-plus patient visits—a figure that UNM says represents half the adults diagnosed with cancer in New Mexico and almost all the children. The new 206,000-square-foot construction could serve 200,000 patients a year and will be the core of a statewide network of cancer care. In addition to state-of-the-art diagnosis and imaging facilities, a Siemens-PETNET cyclotron and radioisotope production facility, a diagnostic clinical laboratory, four vaults for radiation oncology and radiosurgery programs, the new center reflects a holistic approach to patient care, with healing gardens, a meditation chapel, and natural colors, materials, and designs informed by Native American philosophies and incorporating plenty of natural sunlight, mountain views, and rooftop garden. The full facility is expected to open in 2010.