Ushering in a new era of cancer care

The new Helmsley Cancer Centre officially opened its doors to patients in November 2022. This momentous occasion marks a new era of cancer care in Jerusalem and one of the most momentous developments in Shaare Zedek’s 120-year history.

The stunning building represents the culmination of years of planning and construction. Designed by Canadian-based architectural firm Farrow Partners and Jerusalem based RubinsteinOfer Architects it has already earned an international architecture award and is sure to become a Jerusalem icon.

The building has been designed to place the patient experience at the centre. Jonathan Halevy, President of Shaare Zedek shared, “The vision of this centre is inspired by our recognition that the emotional needs of cancer patients are often as important as their practical and medical ones.”

Standing at six stories high, the large open spaces are infused with natural light from a massive skylight, allowing light to flood the treatment rooms and open spaces even when underground. The beautiful use of wood and the indoor garden bring natural elements and a softness in to the building which are calming and therapeutic.

As the trees and plants grow they will be seen from each level of the building, giving the feeling of outdoors, indoors.

Professor Ofer Merin, Director General of Shaare Zedek was among the first to welcome the patients into the new centre. “This is a truly emotional moment that can provide the countless people involved in making it happen with a sense of deep satisfaction. The greatest beneficiaries will be the medical community of Jerusalem and the surrounding areas who will be able to count our cancer care centre on par with the world’s leading facilities.”

Spread out over more than 12,000 square meters, the new cancer centre provides a wholly comprehensive approach to oncology care which begins with the Radiotherapy Institute, housed underground to accommodate the extremely heavy and specific engineering requirements for radiation care. The Institute also includes a CT Simulator which is a critical tool for mapping patient care. The upper floors house multiple treatment areas for outpatient care including an all new Oncology Day Hospital and multiple research and teaching facilities with seminar rooms and a dedicated auditorium.

Professor Nir Peled, Director of the Oncology Institute added, “This Centre positions Shaare Zedek to provide leading oncology care defined by advanced technology and compassionate medicine and we have worked to recruit some of the industry’s leading physicians and technicians to staff this new facility. This truly ushers in a new era in care.”