Hospital breaks ground on eight-story cancer tower

SARASOTA — Sarasota Memorial Hospital held a groundbreaking for the hospital’s new oncology tower April 16. 

The building will serve as the heart of the organization's Cancer Institute, according to a statement. It is expected to be completed in 2021. The eight-story tower will be constructed on Sarasota Memorial Hospital's main campus, 1700 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, the release adds. 

The institute aims to bring together the best doctors, latest research, most advanced treatments and support and follow-up care for cancer patients, say hospital officials. 

In January, Sarasota Memorial Hospital broke ground on the first phase of the Cancer Institute, starting construction on a new radiation oncology center at its University Parkway campus. The outpatient center is expected to open in 2020.

The oncology and surgical tower at the main campus represents the second phase of the effort. It will have nine new operating rooms, including robotic surgery suites; two upper floors with 56 private suites for hospitalized cancer patients; and navigation, counseling and support services.

According to the statement, Sarasota Memorial Hospital is investing $220 million in the first two phases of the Cancer Institute and is in preliminary planning for a third phase. The third phase will include a cancer pavilion to house outpatient services and care. 

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System is a regional referral center that has more than 900,000 patient visits each year.