Nebraska Medicine Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center - Kearney

The Nebraska Medicine Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center in Kearney represents a significant advancement in comprehensive cancer care for central Nebraska. This 55,000-square-foot facility stands as a state-of-the-art, two-story outpatient building dedicated to providing integrated oncology services to patients and families throughout the region.

The cancer center was constructed on a greenfield site in University Village, Kearney, with the primary objective of bringing advanced cancer treatment closer to patients in central and western Nebraska. The facility encompasses comprehensive cancer care services including medical oncology, hematology, radiation oncology and infusion therapy. Key features include a fully-equipped linear accelerator room with provisions for a future second unit, multiple examination rooms, infusion bays, an on-site laboratory and pharmacy, community rooms and a healing garden designed to support holistic care and recovery.

The project was designed to enhance both patient comfort and clinical efficiency, providing expanded clinic areas that allow practitioners, patients and multiple family members to interact in a supportive environment for diagnosis and treatment discussions. The facility’s design prioritizes creating a healing environment that addresses the unique needs of cancer patients and their families.

McCarthy faced several distinctive challenges during this project that required innovative solutions and careful coordination. The greenfield location presented infrastructure challenges, particularly in establishing main roads due to the construction site’s proximity to the highway. The team addressed this through proactive planning and coordination with local authorities to ensure proper access and safety protocols.

The specialized nature of cancer center construction presented unique technical requirements. Linear accelerator rooms demand precise construction standards and specialized shielding, while the facility’s mechanical systems required meticulous attention to detail to ensure proper environmental controls for compromised patients. McCarthy’s healthcare expertise proved invaluable in managing these critical construction elements while maintaining the highest quality standards.

McCarthy implemented strategic solutions including standardization and prefabrication of components off-site to reduce on-site installation time and minimize stress on the available workforce. This approach ensured quality control while maintaining project schedules.

The project team’s deep understanding of the local market and established relationships with regional subcontractors enabled reliable budgeting and consistent project execution. McCarthy’s experience with similar cancer center projects provided valuable insights for delivering this specialized facility type.

The cancer center now serves as a vital healthcare resource for the region, bringing world-class cancer care closer to the communities that need it most.