State-of-the-art infusion center opens at UAMS

LITTLE ROCK — A new center for patients undergoing chemotherapy was unveiled today at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute.

Located on the institute’s sixth floor, Infusion Center B will primarily serve patients with blood cancers, such as multiple myeloma, leukemia and lymphoma, as well as those participating in clinical trials.

“This new state-of-the-art infusion center will greatly expand our ability to provide essential cancer therapies for our patients, as well as provide them with the warm, comfortable environment they deserve,” said UAMS Chancellor Cam Patterson, M.D., MBA.

The center can accommodate a total of 50 patients, with 20 in private rooms, 10 in infection control rooms and 20 in open pods. Patient areas have access to natural light.

Arkansas’ first Phase 1 Clinical Trial Unit will be embedded within the center, allowing patients access to new and innovative therapies unavailable elsewhere in the state.

“Phase 1 clinical trials involve new drugs that are being tested in a small number of patients to evaluate their safety, determine the correct dosage and identify side effects. I expect patients to come to the Cancer Institute from across the country to gain access to these therapies. This is the cutting edge, and it’s what our patients need,” Michael Birrer, M.D., PH.D., vice chancellor and Cancer Institute director.

Two additional areas also are set to open at the Cancer Institute in 2021, including a new, greatly expanded Breast Center on the third floor and additional clinic space on the seventh floor.

“These three floors were left unfinished after the Cancer Institute’s new tower opened in 2010. Now, we are proud to say that we will soon have the fully functional building promised to Arkansans,” Birrer said.