Cancer center with clinical trial options celebrates Medical District grand opening

Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada celebrated the grand opening of its flagship treatment center in the Medical District on Tuesday, with the goal of improving cancer care in Nevada.

The new 15,000-square-foot center is located on the first floor of the Molasky Corporate Center at 100 N. City Parkway. A ribbon cutting was held to inaugurate its opening, with Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley present alongside other city and county officials, although it has been seeing patients since April 29.

“For many years, it’s been a goal of Comprehensive Cancer Centers to be a part of downtown Las Vegas,” said Dr. Stephani Christensen, medical oncologist at Comprehensive. “The UNLV medical school is just up the street, and it allows for easier collaboration.”

This is the eighth treatment center from Comprehensive and its first in downtown Las Vegas.

The center will employ around 60 people, including three oncologists and one advanced practice provider. It includes 16 exam rooms, 42 infusion chairs and a healing garden, and offers diagnostic PET/CT imaging and genetic counseling.

“For many years the reputation of healthcare in Nevada is that you should fly somewhere else,” said Christensen. “We’re trying to change that narrative.”

During the event, Comprehensive also announced a collaboration with Sarah Cannon Research Institute. The collaboration will be known as “SCRI at Comprehensive Cancer Centers” and will allow patients to expand their therapies and treatment options by enrolling in clinical trials.

SCRI at Comprehensive Cancer Centers will bring phase I, II, and III research to patients.

“This flagship location represents our continued commitment to ensuring that patients have access to innovative, high-quality cancer care close to home,” said Dr. Rupesh J. Parikh, practice president and medical oncologist at Comprehensive. “Our roots in the Las Vegas Medical District show our genuine commitment to growing this hub for clinical excellence, education and research.”