Since opening its doors in 2020, the Yung Family Cancer Center has remained steadfast in its purpose: to deliver compassionate, innovative cancer care to patients across the region and beyond. As the center celebrates its five-year anniversary, we reflect on some of the defining milestones that have shaped its journey and elevated its impact.
2020: A New Chapter in Cancer Care
The launch of the cancer center marked a transformative moment for cancer care in the region. Designed to serve patients locally and nationally, it introduced a multidisciplinary approach that integrated genetic screening, precision medicine and holistic support. Patients no longer had to travel far for the latest care — it was all here in Northern Kentucky. That same year, these contributions to public health were recognized with the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Community Award. This affirmed that our vision was already changing lives in the community.
2021: Design Centered Around Healing
Healing has always been about more than treatments. The center’s six-story, 250,000 sq. ft. facility was designed with calming spaces, a meditation room and a 5,500 sq. ft. garden courtyard — earning an IIDA Healthcare Design Award in 2021. Just as important, the experience is seamless. Diagnostics, infusion, surgery and support services are all in one location, reducing stress for patients and families.
2022: Expanding Access and Early Detection
By 2022, St. Elizabeth had completed 20,000 lung cancer screenings, helping detect cancers at earlier stages when treatment works best. Increased participation led to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes. To reach underserved communities, the center deployed 12 outreach specialists, who were instrumental in completing 38% of all lung screenings and 15% of breast cancer screenings that year. This model is now nationally recognized for sustainable outreach to underserved populations.
2023: National Recognition and Accreditation
The center has earned some of the nation’s highest honors in cancer care and design. In 2023 alone, it received the following:
- ACCC Innovator Award for its sustainable outreach model.
- HGA Healthcare Design Honor (Silver Level) for infusion center and facility design.
- Commission on Cancer Accreditation from the American College of Surgeons.
- Pancreatic Cancer Center of Excellence designation from the National Pancreas Foundation.
These honors reflect the center’s leadership in delivering high-quality, multidisciplinary care.
2024–2025: Philanthropy and Performance
In 2024, the Yung Family Foundation made a historic $10 million gift—the largest in St. Elizabeth history—leading to the renaming of the facility, but it’s real impact shows up in patients’ lives.
The center has now performed 50,000+ lung screenings and marked its 500th early-stage cancer detection. National outlets, including U.S. News & World Report, Newsweek and the Women’s Choice Award®, have all recognized its excellence in cancer care. Whether you live in Northern Kentucky, Cincinnati or Southeastern Indiana, you have access to these services.
Looking Ahead
These milestones represent more than achievements. They reflect a place of hope, healing and progress. As the Yung Family Cancer Center looks to the future, its commitment to advancing cancer care and supporting every patient’s journey remains stronger than ever.
Learn more about the Yung Family Cancer Center and Cancer Care at St. Elizabeth. To request an appointment, you can visit our website or call (859) 301-4000.
