A year after opening its doors, the LMH Health Cancer Center continues to transform cancer care in Lawrence – expanding access, improving the experience and bringing patients more services closer to home. 

The Cancer Center unveiled its expanded and renovated clinical space in June 2025, answering the increasing need for high-quality, collaborative cancer care in the community. Before the expansion, LMH Health oncologists and hematologists managed more than 19,000 patient visits each year in a space originally designed to serve just 2,400 patients when it opened in 2001.

“Our previous clinic was great, but the needs of our patients simply outgrew our space,” said hematologist Dr. Jodi Palmer. “We wanted to provide a pleasant, low-stress environment conducive to healing throughout the entire cancer journey.”

Thoughtfully designed with input from patients, families, physicians and staff, the updated space is modern and bright, built to support emerging technologies and services, and promoting a sense of well-being and hope.

The transformation was made possible in part by strong community support, with the LMH Health Foundation receiving more than $7.6 million in philanthropic support from community members and foundations.

“As a donor and former oncology care recipient I am so excited about the new Cancer Center. It is the spacious and convenient facility our providers and community deserve,” said Gail Vick, past president of the LMH Health Foundation. 

A space designed with patients in mind

The transformation is stunning. Improvements include:

  • Additional treatment and exam rooms
  • A larger waiting area
  • Expanded laboratory space
  • Dedicated patient education and consultation rooms
  • A family lounge
  • An emphasis on natural light for patient and family comfort
  • New space to support clinical trials
  • Modern pharmacy space supporting complex infusion medications

Patients receiving infusions experience these improvements firsthand. Treatment bays face large windows to provide natural light and a connection to the outdoors, helping reduce a sense of isolation.

“Cancer patients have always been able to find outstanding oncology and hematology care at our hospital,” said oncologist Dr. Jodie Barr. “Now, the facility better reflects that level of excellence.”

Patients have noticed the difference.

“Nearly every day, patients have commented on how the new Cancer Center feels warmer and more welcoming,” said oncologist Dr. Andrew Meyer. “The net result of this improvement has been a noticeable increase in patient satisfaction and general clinic positivity.”

Dr. Palmer agreed, noting the team has improved patient care and access with the increased space.

“The new Cancer Center has, simply put, exceeded our expectations,” she said.

Creating a unified cancer care experience

In August, LMH Health welcomed Precision Cancer Care and its radiation oncology team to the Cancer Center, bringing medical and radiation oncology services together under one roof. The integration streamlines scheduling and coordinated care, and supports more opportunities for clinical trials, an important part of LMH’s membership in the Masonic Cancer Alliance.

“Every cancer patient deserves access to facilities like this,” Dr. Meyer said.

In addition to clinical trials, the Cancer Center continues to offer a full spectrum of services, including high-risk and genetic screening, nurse navigators, and a survivorship program.

“My partners and I are all thrilled with the expanded Cancer Center space and how well received the upgrade has been with patients,” Dr. Meyer said. “We are proud to provide high level, compassionate care, right here – close to home. It’s making a real difference for our patients.”