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Patient Flow and Expansion were High Priorities for Hematology Oncology Associates P.C.
 When Architect Mark McKechnie, AIA, began the Design/Build process with five physicians from Hematology Oncology Associates P.C., he understood that the project should provide efficient workspace for staff and include opportunities for expansion. With concerns for patients a high priority, Mark worked to incorporate simplicity and functionality in spaces where patients could be welcomed, evaluated, undergo procedures, and handle administrative aspects of their care —without going back and forth across the facility. "The original design was dictated by the site and the needs of the patients," Mark says.
Today, the newly constructed facility on the corner of Barnett and Murphy roads allows physicians and their patients to enjoy the benefits of an alternative state-of-the-art medical center in Southern Oregon. But on top of meeting original challenges, the Batzer Team incorporated features to the design that were aesthetically pleasing, took advantage of the property's location, and fit the facility's technologically advanced environment.
"It is an impressive building, both inside and out," says Batzer Project Manager Carl Tullis. "There were complexities with this project, but it went well because there was cooperation among the doctors, administrators and department heads of the facility, the Batzer Team and many subcontractors, including the staff of Grape Street Interior Design. It was a special pleasure working with Greg Gilbert and Dr. Dibs."
Owned by Hematology Oncology Associates (HOA) Properties, LLC, the new 23,000 square foot medical center is triple the size of HOA's former facility. The two-story brick structure with metal framed windows houses several separate waiting areas, examination rooms, and public spaces. The second floor, which is reserved for office and administrative staff, is on a 15-degree offset with windows that provide expansive views of Mt. Ashland.
For patients who require longer visits, the Batzer Team constructed a landscaped courtyard that provides a peaceful space with a quiet atmosphere. The garden includes lush plantings, a water feature, and sitting areas.
Along the way, the doctors wanted to accommodate additional concepts they felt were important. These modifications could have caused major delays, but instead, the Batzer Team were able to make the changes while maintaining the original completion date.
For example, a coffee and sandwich service center was added within the main vestibule area. Also, in one room, a restructured floor and lead lining to the walls became necessary to accommodate a PET CT scan – an entirely different machine from the one described in the original scope.
"This project is a great example of how well the Design/Build process works to ensure that the values of owners are consistently maintained," explains Russ Batzer, president of the 50-year-old Design/Build construction firm. "Part of our job is to help our clients realize their dreams. Mark and the entire Batzer Team worked closely with the owners to create spaces in which patients feel relaxed and at the same time, feel secure in the care they are receiving. I believe we have accomplished everything the owners identified as important to their vision."
Batzer broke ground on the Hematology Oncology Associates building in fall 2005, with the finish work being completed in early 2006.
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