PRINCETON, W.Va. (WVDN) – WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital (PCH) today hosted a ceremony to mark the start of construction on a two-story, 45,500-square-foot comprehensive cancer center that will bring advanced cancer care closer to home for patients across Southern West Virginia and Southwest Virginia.
The over-$35 million project represents the largest investment in cancer services ever made in the region and underscores WVU Medicine’s commitment to improving access to world-class care in communities in every part of the state.
“Through WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital, West Virginia University is investing in the health of people in communities across southern West Virginia, ensuring that those who need cancer treatment can access care close to home from world-class providers,” said Michael T. Benson, president of West Virginia University. “We’re training today’s students to be tomorrow’s health care professionals while opening access to services that can save lives.”
Albert L. Wright, Jr., president and CEO of the WVU Health System, said “Today’s celebration marks another important milestone in our commitment to expand world-class cancer care to every corner of West Virginia. From one end of our state to the other, we are extending our expertise in cancer care by bringing advanced treatments, clinical trials, and hope closer to home for our patients and their families.”
Following exhaustive planning and review, the new cancer center design that was unveiled at the ceremony emphasizes the patient experience:
Welcoming entry lobbies and waiting areas are oriented to capture daylight and soothing views.
Simplified wayfinding and corridors ending in windows help patients and families navigate with ease while filling interior spaces with natural light.
Convenient patient drop-off and accessible parking create a low-stress arrival, while expanded staff parking supports the growing care team.
A dedicated ambulance drop-off for emergent cases ensures rapid access when needed.
The center will integrate services in one location for patient convenience and continuity of care:
A direct connection to the existing oncology clinic for seamless coordination of care.
A light-filled infusion center with glass walls offering natural views and social interaction opportunities during treatment.
Decentralized nurse stations throughout the facility to strengthen staff-patient connection.
A full-service pharmacy to support comprehensive treatment plans
When completed in late 2027, the cancer center will house the latest, most-advanced technologies including a Varian Halcyon linear accelerator for radiation therapy and treatments, and a CT scanner that enhances diagnostic precision to aid in treatment planning.
Through a connection with the WVU Cancer Institute, patients in the region will have access to new treatments and specialists, and greater ability to participate in clinical trials.
Most importantly, the cancer center will serve as the centerpiece of PCH’s vision to transform cancer outcomes in a region that has the highest cancer rates and mortality in the nation.
“This facility is more than bricks and mortar,” said Karen Bowling, PCH president and CEO. “It’s about hope, access, and a promise to our patients and families that they no longer have to leave our community to receive the very best cancer care available.”
About WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital
WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital is leading healthcare in the two Virginias. With 420 physicians and mid-level providers, PCH operates a fully accredited 203-bed acute care medical facility, a 64-bed psychiatric hospital, and an emergency room and outpatient services facility in Bluefield. PCH operates six primary care clinics, 10 specialty clinics, and three rural imaging clinics offering a wide range of care to a 10-county region.
