FirstHealth Cancer Center in Pinehurst brings all cancer services under one roof

FirsHealth leaders in Moore County plan to open their new cancer center on Monday, March 27.

Until now, their cancer programs have been spread out in different locations. Now those services will all come under one roof.

It’s a state of the art facility with patient wellness at the center. The finishing touches are now coming together as the new FirstHealth Cancer Center awaits its grand opening.

The need has only grown since plans for the new center began 11 years, says Daniel Barnes, president of FirstHealth Physician Group.

He said, "We are seeing a steady increase in the incidence of cancer, but also seeing in our current service area a growth in the population."

Barnes says the new design is a team effort. FirstHealth leaders visited several hospitals across the state.

"We involved 40 staff members, about 20 providers, but then also included more than 50 patients that were undergo treatment," said Barnes.

The new space almost doubles the size of current services, according to Barnes. Large windows allow nature to shine indoors.

In the fourth floor wellness center, there’s a fitness room with both free weights and a variety of exercise machines. There’s also a dedicated yoga space and a meditation room. Massage therapy is also available for patients and caregivers.

"So we are really trying to treat mind, body and soul through this process," said Barnes.

The fourth floor also provides palliative care and close access to a team of health navigators. It’s also where clinical trials take place.

"I think that makes the center a little bit unique with the focus on wellness," said Barnes.

He believes the natural environment contributes to the wellness of their patients.

"Being able to see a healing garden from anywhere within this infusion space, as opposed to looking at a nursing station in our current center, really focusing on creating the best patient experience possible," said Barnes.

Barnes says philanthropy from those in the community played a major role in making the four-story FirstHealth Cancer Center become a reality.