Northwestern Medicine Opens 80,000 Sq Ft Cancer Center

Cancer patients in McHenry County no longer need to travel far for specialized treatment. Northwestern Medicine's new Huntley Outpatient Center opened this month with expanded cancer services, including radiation oncology coming to the campus for the first time.

The facility doubles the number of cancer infusion rooms from eight to 16 and increases exam rooms from six to 13. Patients can now receive chemotherapy, radiation, and supportive care all in one location connected to Huntley Hospital by an enclosed walkway.

"Patients often require multiple types of treatment as part of their cancer journey," said Dr. Terrence Bugno, a radiation oncologist at Northwestern Medicine. Having these services together helps patients avoid unnecessary travel during treatment while their teams coordinate care more seamlessly.

Beyond cancer care, the center brings several new specialties to the area. Gastroenterology, pulmonary medicine, and palliative care services join expanded cardiology diagnostics and surgery options. Matt Carlen, president of Huntley Hospital, says the investment brings world-class specialty care closer to where patients live and work.

The expansion creates approximately 300 new jobs over the next three years, including physicians, nurses, and support staff. The building adds to the more than 1,330 employees and 300 board-certified physicians already working at Huntley Hospital, which opened just 10 years ago in 2016.

The Ripple Effect

This healthcare expansion means shorter wait times and easier access for entire families across the northwest Chicago suburbs. Parents dealing with a cancer diagnosis can receive treatment close to home instead of adding hours of commute time to already difficult days. The cardiovascular and digestive health services help manage chronic conditions before they become emergencies.

Dr. Patrick Towne, president of Northwestern Medicine Regional Medical Group, says the center improves access at every stage of healthcare journeys. Patients who previously drove to other facilities for specialized diagnostic tests or follow-up appointments now have options within their own community.

The economic impact extends beyond healthcare jobs. As Huntley Hospital continues growing since opening in 2016, it attracts healthcare talent to the region while supporting local businesses that serve employees and patients. In August, the hospital ranked 11th in Illinois for quality care in U.S. News rankings.

A dedicated gynecological oncology service will join the center in 2027, further expanding women's cancer care options in the region.

Bringing specialized medical care to growing communities means families spend less time traveling and more time healing together.