Intermountain Health’s McKay-Dee Cancer Center aimed to transform cancer care in Ogden by consolidating comprehensive services into a single, convenient location. Recognizing that patients should be the priority, the focus was on streamlining their journey to healing. The new Cancer Center offers patients easy access to chemotherapy, clinical trials, genetic counseling, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

Meticulous design considerations were made by TSA Architects to ensure that the building itself contributed to the healing process. From quiet flooring and superb wayfinding to strategically located staff zones, every detail was crafted to create a soothing and supportive atmosphere. The Cancer Center was designed to empower its patients in every way, for example, chemotherapy patients can choose their treatment setting. Whether in a communal or private area, or even outdoors in the Healing Garden, each station offers views of nature, personalized controls, designated spaces for partners in healing, and amenities to inspire patients and caregivers alike.

The Radiation Oncology Therapy Suite within the Cancer Center represents a paradigm shift in cancer treatment — leveraging innovative technology to elevate industry standards and enhance patient care. The suite boasts the best linear accelerator vault in the Intermountain Health system, equipped with advanced tumor tracking and positioning capabilities. This technology enables precise targeting of tumors while minimizing patient discomfort, reducing the need for prolonged immobilization during treatment sessions. Moreover, the suite is designed to accommodate a diverse range of patients — including those with mobility impairments — ensuring equitable access to cutting-edge care in a soothing, healing, and aesthetically pleasing environment while also providing greater functionality for staff.

Integration of advanced technology goes hand in hand with a patient-centric approach, where the focus remains on the individual’s comfort and dignity. Thoughtful design elements such as customizable lighting, acoustics control, and intuitive wayfinding contribute to a calming and relaxing environment for patients. Natural lighting in patient hallways further enhances the healing atmosphere, fostering a sense of connection to the outside world within the hospital setting.

The innovative design techniques employed in the Radiation Therapy Suite not only benefit the client by offering state-of-the-art treatment capabilities but also positively impact the broader healthcare community. By demonstrating how technology can be seamlessly integrated into the built environment to prioritize patient well-being, this project sets a new standard for cancer care facilities. The incorporation of patient-centric design principles and advanced technology has the potential to inspire similar innovations across the industry, ultimately enhancing the quality of care and overall patient experience in healthcare settings.

Design: TSA Architects
Contractor: Big-D Construction
Photography: Alan Blakely