The Cancer Treatment Center at Union General Hospital emphasizes both therapy and patient/physician education in Blairsville, Georgia, a mountain town on the Georgia-North Carolina border. The Center is a unique collaboration of dedicated radiation and medical oncologists, and two small, rural northeast Georgia hospitals. 

Prior to the opening of this facility, patients were required to travel more than 55 miles over steep mountain roads, to receive treatment. The availability of comprehensive cancer treatment encourages more patients to remain in their hometown for services, thus increasing the utilization of the existing hospital.

Based on the nature of cancer detection, and the typical physician referral process, the architecture of the building was intended to be civic and noticeable. When a referring physician directs his patient to the “cancer center behind the hospital”, the patient should find more than “the behind of the hospital”.

The soaring clock tower slab and lightning rod provide a landmark of distinction. Referring physicians now cite the clock tower as the locating feature. The exterior walls are made of brick and cast stone with large areas of glass. The traditional materials are composed in a somewhat more modern style of clean, sharp lines. 

The extensive use of glass storefront with high performance glazing filters light into all parts of the building radiating light throughout, illuminating the open plan. 

The curb-less entry and automatic doors of the Center remove any accessible barrier, as many visitors use walkers, wheel chairs, and are typically elderly. The plan is organized around a simple central core, between radiation oncology on the right, medical oncology on the left with the lounge and doctor’s offices in the rear. 

The Center has a full range of waiting and sub-waiting areas, exam rooms, physician offices, chemotherapy laboratory and infusion area, CT-simulator, radiation treatment vault, physics laboratory and shielding room. 

The Center with its simple lines, warm colors, and traditional materials creates a peaceful environment helping patients and their families understand the course of their treatment. Although the design is clean, it is not sterile. The result is a one-of-kind patient-centered design that provides care, comfort, and hope under the pressures of a managed-care environment.

Manufacturers/Suppliers
DIV 07: Built-Up: Carlisle Syntec; Metal: Petersen Aluminum Snap-On Standing Seam.
DIV 08: Entrances & Storefronts: United States Aluminum; Hollow Metal Doors & Frames: Steelcraft; Wood Doors: Oshkosh; Hardware: Hager, Schlage, LCN, National Guard.
DIV 10: Toilet Partitions: Knickerbocker; Accessories: Bobrick; Clock: Electric Time.