RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, US, have announced investments to advance cancer research and care in the state.

The collaboration aims to enhance cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment through advanced facilities and translational research, along with the latest technologies and renowned faculty.

Key initiatives include the creation of New Jersey's first free-standing cancer hospital, the Jack and Sheryl Morris Cancer Center in New Brunswick, with an investment of $750m.

Other initiatives include a $225m outpatient centre in Livingston and a $200m outpatient centre in Tinton Falls.

The partnership also focuses on recruiting clinical and academic leaders, expanding clinical research programmes, and increasing access to advanced treatment options, such as precision medicine and immunotherapy.

In addition, it will improve patient and family experiences through holistic wellness resources and oncology nurse navigation programmes.

These efforts are said to be supported by contributions from families, foundations, and community partners for a patient-centred approach to cancer care.

RWJBarnabas Health oncology services senior vice-president Steven K Libutti said: “We are at an inflection point in cancer.

“Our joint investment of resources, expertise and compassion means we’ll continue to provide our patients and their families with the care and support they won’t find anywhere else.

“Through the research and clinical power of the state’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centre, including our NCI Consortium Cancer Centre partner, Princeton University, and the healthcare delivery power of the state’s largest academic health system, we will reimagine what a cancer diagnosis means and chart a new path for patients on their journeys to survivorship.”