In October 2024, Rush opened its new 55,000 square-foot cancer center in Lisle, marking a significant milestone in providing comprehensive cancer care in its communities. The RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center at Rush Lisle offers infusion and radiation therapy, cancer support services, lab services, a pharmacy and urgent cancer care — all conveniently located in one facility.
As part of the Rush partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center, one of the nation’s leading cancer centers, this center represents the fifth RUSH MD Anderson location, joining Rush University Medical Center, Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora, Rush Oak Park Hospital and Rush Copley Healthcare Center in Yorkville.
Prior to the center’s opening both the infusion services and provider clinics shared space. Laboratory and imaging services were provided by another medical group. This model supported patient care for many years, but became limited to expand services, integrate additional resources and ensure consistent access for all patients. The move aligned with a strategic plan to expand cancer services to the western suburbs and establish a more comprehensive, integrated care environment. The new center was also an essential step to support the Rush partnership with MD Anderson.
Transitioning Care
The transition to a new cancer center is an enormous undertaking. It requires meticulous planning, logistical precision and a deep commitment to patient care. This effort demands resilience and an extraordinary level of collaboration across the entire care team. At the heart of this undertaking is the nursing team. Their unwavering dedication, adaptability and leadership have not only facilitated this transition but have also ensured that patient care remains top priority— even amidst the added challenges of onboarding new staff and accommodating an increased volume of patient visits.
The nursing team played a central role in designing workflows and anticipating patient needs, while ensuring safe, efficient and compassionate care. Their insights into patient flow, medication safety and clinical priorities were instrumental in shaping the operational protocols of the new cancer center. Working in collaboration with facilities, information services and pharmacy teams, the team ensured that the new space would enhance both patient experience and staff effectiveness. They carefully developed detailed transition plans to minimize disruptions to patient care — a testament to their foresight, professionalism and adaptability.
The simultaneous onboarding of new staff members added another layer of complexity to this transition. To build a strong foundation, experienced nurses stepped into mentorship roles, guiding new team members through orientation, clinical protocols and the culture of excellence that defines oncology nursing at Rush. They demonstrated patience, leadership and a commitment to knowledge-sharing, ensuring the new team was well integrated and confident in their roles. This not only supported individual growth but also built a cohesive, highfunctioning team capable of delivering complex oncology care in a new and evolving environment.
In addition, the increase in the patient population was met with determination from the nursing team. Nurses quickly adapted their workflows, prioritized communication and implemented creative scheduling strategies to meet the needs of a growing patient base. They did so while upholding the highest standards of safety, compassion and patient-centered care.
The successful opening of the RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center at Rush Lisle shows the extraordinary efforts of the nursing team. Their leadership during times of uncertainty, unwavering focus on patient care and ability to mentor and support one another through change was inspiring. The cancer center represents more than just a new building; it marks an exciting new chapter in Rush’s shared mission to deliver exceptional cancer care in partnership with MD Anderson. These contributions and dedication will positively impact patients and their families for years to come.