New Comprehensive Cancer Hospital

In April 2025, the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Board of Trustees approved a resolution to begin planning a new, state-of-the-art cancer hospital on campus. This facility will provide comprehensive inpatient and outpatient cancer care, along with essential support services.

The new hospital will significantly expand access to advanced cancer treatments, strengthen our ability to recruit and retain top-tier clinicians, and accelerate the translation of laboratory research into real-world patient outcomes. It will also support our pursuit of the prestigious National Cancer Institute (NCI) Comprehensive Cancer Center designation, the highest recognition in cancer research.

This development represents a major milestone for MUSC Hollings Cancer Center and a transformative step forward for patients across South Carolina who depend on world-class cancer care.

To learn more about how you can help change what’s possible, please contact our Development team.

Make a gift in support of the new comprehensive cancer hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of building a new comprehensive cancer hospital?

The new, “one-stop shop” cancer hospital will be a state-of-the-art facility designed to deliver the highest level of care to patients. As part of MUSC Hollings Cancer Center—the only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center in South Carolina—it will bring together inpatient and outpatient cancer services currently spread across the MUSC campus. This will enhance accessibility and improve the patient experience, while also increasing comfort and promoting healing. The hospital will also expand MUSC’s capacity, attract top clinicians and researchers, and accelerate the development of innovative cancer treatments and cures.

What services will be provided?

The new comprehensive cancer hospital will offer a full range of inpatient and outpatient services, all under one roof. These include:

• Operating rooms for cancer-related surgeries
• Inpatient rooms
• Chemotherapy infusion spaces
• Radiation oncology services
• Clinical trial clinics
• Stem cell transplants
• A specialized physical therapy center
• Ancillary services such as survivorship programs to support patients throughout their treatment process

Why now?

The decision to build a new comprehensive cancer hospital is driven by an urgent need to expand and modernize MUSC’s cancer care infrastructure. South Carolina’s population is growing and aging, which will significantly increase the demand for cancer research, prevention, and treatment services in the next decade and beyond.

When is the expected completion date?

The comprehensive cancer hospital is expected to be completed in 2030. A detailed timeline will be shared when the building plans are completed.

When will the plans for the building be shared?

Detailed plans for the building will be shared once the initial planning and design phases are completed. This is expected to happen by early 2026.

How will this be paid for?

Construction will be funded through a combination of government grants, institutional funds and private donations.

Where will the comprehensive cancer hospital be located?

The hospital will be in downtown Charleston on the corner of Ashley Avenue and Calhoun Street, adjacent to Rutledge Tower. It will be close to Hollings Cancer Center on Jonathan Lucas Street to facilitate continued collaboration between researchers, clinicians and staff.

What will happen to the current Hollings Cancer Center building?

The existing Hollings Cancer Center currently includes outpatient clinics, radiation oncology services, a pharmacy, administrative offices, and research laboratories. Once the new comprehensive cancer hospital is completed, the clinical services, radiation oncology department, and pharmacy will relocate to the new facility. This move will free up space in the current building, allowing for the expansion of cancer research laboratories.

What are the plans for Rutledge Tower?

A new medical office building and outpatient surgery center will be constructed at 334 Calhoun Street to house the services currently provided in Rutledge Tower (located at 135 Rutledge Avenue). Planning and development are underway, with the new facility expected to open by 2028. The existing Rutledge Tower will be redeveloped into a mixed-use building.

Why is this new facility being built on the Charleston peninsula?

As an academic medical center, MUSC depends on close collaboration among specialists to deliver cutting-edge research, education, and patient care. Locating the new comprehensive cancer hospital on the Charleston peninsula ensures proximity to MUSC’s research labs, clinical trial teams, and expert physicians, allowing for seamless integration of the latest scientific advancements into patient treatment.

MUSC Health and the Hollings Cancer Network are continuing to grow throughout the state to ensure all South Carolinians have access to the best cancer research and care, and this new hospital will support those efforts.

How will construction of the hospital impact traffic and parking on campus?

Construction of the new comprehensive cancer hospital will temporarily affect traffic flow and parking availability on campus. MUSC is committed to minimizing disruptions by providing alternative parking options and clear signage to help guide patients and visitors during the construction period.

How will flood mitigation and parking be handled?

We recognize the challenges of parking and flooding in downtown Charleston. These concerns will be thoroughly evaluated and incorporated into the planning and design of the new facility, in collaboration with the City of Charleston and other key stakeholders.

How can I provide support for this new facility?

To learn about giving opportunities, please contact Debbie Bordeau at bordeau@musc.edu.

How can I get more information or stay updated on the progress?

As plans progress, new information will be posted on the website and our social media channels.