Sarah Bush Lincoln Announces Major Expansion of Regional Cancer Center

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MATTOON, Ill. (WCIA) — Sarah Bush Lincoln has revealed plans to expand its Regional Cancer Center by an additional 15,000 square feet. Leaders at SBL emphasize that this development is aimed at accommodating the increasing demand for cancer treatment services throughout Central Illinois.

“Back in 2020, we recorded approximately 25,000 annual visits to the Cancer Center,” explained Jessi Bergfeld, Administrative Director of Practice Management. “This year, we are projected to reach nearly 47,000 visits.”

Initially established almost a decade ago, the facility was equipped with 17 infusion bays, which were sufficient for its patient load at the time. However, the number of patients has since doubled, necessitating more space and advanced equipment.

The planned expansion will introduce additional chemotherapy and specialized infusion bays, along with eight new exam rooms. It will also feature an enlarged waiting area and increased parking capacity. Furthermore, the project includes the creation of a dedicated space for non-oncology medical infusions.

Construction is scheduled to begin in the fall. The project is partially funded through the Expanding Hope campaign, launched by the Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Foundation.

In 2015, the campaign “Building Hope” raised funds for the construction of the existing Regional Cancer Center. The campaign raised almost $4 million for the $15.8 million facility. Now, the goal of the Expanding Hope campaign is to raise at least $2 million.

You can learn more about how to support the Expanding Hope campaign by contacting Amy Card at 217-258-2511 or acard@sblhs.org.