Livingston, N.j. June 24: RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute, the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, unveiled the Melchiorre Cancer Center at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center. The opening represents the latest milestone in RWJBarnabas Health’s $1.5 billion investment to transform and expand oncology care across New Jersey, bringing advanced treatments, leading specialists, innovative clinical trials, and comprehensive support services together so patients don’t have to cross state lines for world-class care.
Located on the campus of Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center (CBMC) in Livingston, the five-story, 137,000-square-foot, $225 million, state-of-the-art outpatient facility will serve as the northern destination for oncology services for the health system.
“The Melchiorre Cancer Center is the latest manifestation of where we will help realize RWJBarnabas Health’s promise as New Jersey’s largest academic health system,” said Mark E. Manigan, President and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health. “One of the most important things that we, as a health system, can do is to meet our patients where they are at the time they need us most. For those across North Jersey who are taking on one of the toughest fights of their life – the fight against cancer – the trip for the best available, National Cancer Institute-designated care no longer requires a drive across a bridge, or through a tunnel. It will be right here, around the corner.”
The opening celebration comes just one day before the one-year anniversary of the opening of the Jack & Sheryl Morris Cancer Center—the state’s first and only freestanding cancer hospital and one of only 13 freestanding cancer hospitals in the nation. These facilities reflect RWJBarnabas Health’s long-term vision to establish New Jersey as a destination for outstanding comprehensive cancer care.
Patients at the Melchiorre will have increased access to groundbreaking therapies, clinic trials, and the most advanced treatment options in connection with the Rutgers Cancer Institute.
“The Melchiorre Cancer Center will serve as a beacon of hope for countless patients that will walk through its doors” said Steven K. Libutti, MD, FACS, William N. Hait Director of Rutgers Cancer Institute and Senior Vice President of Oncology Services for RWJBarnabas Health. “As the northern destination for our integrated oncology network, providing NCI-designated comprehensive cancer care, the Melchiorre Cancer Center is an integral part of our multidisciplinary care paradigm.”
Named in recognition of the Melchiorre family’s commitment to advancing cancer care in New Jersey, the center stands as a testament to their generosity and wish to improve the lives of patients and families facing cancer.
“Healthcare is such an important part of people’s lives, and we are incredibly proud to be part of a project that will make such a meaningful difference,” said Andrea and Anthony Melchiorre. “This center will have a lasting impact on patients, families, and everyone whose life has been touched by cancer, providing hope, healing, and access to exceptional care when it matters most.”
“Cancer affects individuals, families, and communities across New Jersey, and expanding access to comprehensive, high-quality care remains a central public health priority for our state,” said Dr. Raynard E. Washington, New Jersey Health Commissioner. “Every addition to the state’s cancer care capacity supports the broader work of reducing disparities, encouraging earlier detection and treatment, and helping more residents receive timely care throughout their cancer journey. The opening of the Melchiorre Cancer Center adds to the growing set of resources contributing to that effort.”
The Melchiorre Cancer Center expands access to multidisciplinary cancer care by bringing together physician specialists, researchers, nurses, support teams, and cutting-edge technology under one roof.
We are “reimagining cancer care,” with a critical focus on patient-centered care that supports patients, families, and caregivers through every step in their cancer journey, from screening and diagnosis, through treatment and survivorship, delivered equitably in a compassionate and individualized environment. The five-story building will encompass approximately 137,000 square feet and include the following components:
- 52 Exam Rooms
- 40 Private Infusion Rooms
- 7 Short Stay Treatment Spaces
- 6 Extended Stay Treatment Spaces
- Radiation Oncology Treatment and Specialty Machines
- Radiology Suite with PET CT, MRI, X-Ray, (2) Ultrasound and Fluoroscopy
- Lab and Pre-Surgical Testing
- Clinical Pharmacy and Retail Pharmacy
- Clinical Multidisciplinary Touchdown Spaces
- Dedicated Areas for Psychosocial Programs:
- Patient Wellness Center Featuring Exercise, Yoga, and Music Programs
- Teaching Kitchen Focused on Nutrition
- Wig and Prosthetic Fitting Studio
- Holistic Medicine, Including Art Therapy and Reiki
- Dedication Conference Space
- Beautiful, Calming Rooftop Terrace
“The Melchiorre Cancer Center represents a transformational investment in the health of our community,” said Rick Davis, CEO of CBMC. “Patients and families dealing with cancer deserve access to comprehensive care in a setting designed specifically to support healing, comfort, and hope.”