UC San Diego Health has officially opened the McGrath Outpatient Pavilion at its Hillcrest location, marking a significant milestone in the redevelopment of its 62-acre medical campus. The new facility, which spans 250,000 square feet, aims to enhance access to diagnostic, treatment, surgical, and cancer care services in the region.
During the opening ceremony on October 9, 2023, UCSD Chancellor Pradeep K. Khosla expressed enthusiasm for the new space, stating, “We are excited to open this new space, which reflects our dedication to advancing academic medicine.” He emphasized the pavilion’s role in educating future medical leaders and delivering world-class care to the community. The project received substantial financial support, including a $25 million donation from Laurie McGrath and the McGrath Family Foundation, which enabled the naming of the facility.
The pavilion features specialized areas such as ambulatory surgery suites, operating rooms, and advanced imaging technologies. It houses a multi-specialty cancer clinic, a dedicated breast center, an infusion clinic, and advanced radiation therapy capabilities. This consolidation allows for a more integrated approach to patient care, as highlighted by Patty Maysent, CEO of UCSD Health. She noted, “McGrath is a new model of excellence, bringing together integrated, multidisciplinary care, leading-edge clinical trials, and exceptional cancer treatment — all under one roof.”
Additional contributions to the project include a $10 million donation from Price Philanthropies to establish the Barbara Parker, MD, Breast Center, which underscores the commitment to comprehensive cancer care. Other supporters included Carol and Jeff Chang, as well as Irwin and the late Joan Jacobs, who contributed to the naming of the Steven R. Garfin, MD, Orthopaedic Surgery Clinic.
McGrath expressed her motivation to support UC San Diego Health, stating, “I was profoundly moved by the doctors and caregivers and the overall experience of care.” She highlighted the importance of ensuring that the community has access to high-quality health services, particularly in the growing area of Hillcrest.
The McGrath Outpatient Pavilion is the first phase of a broader Hillcrest Medical Campus Redevelopment Project. Plans for future development include a new 1,850-space parking structure with underground access to the pavilion, workforce housing, retail services, and landscaped green spaces.
To enhance the patient experience, the pavilion also features artwork commissioned from local artists and a cashier-less shop. UC San Diego Health officials have designed “intentional respite areas” for doctors and staff, promoting well-being among healthcare providers.
As the first significant investment in expanding access to cancer services, the McGrath Outpatient Pavilion represents a pivotal step in UC San Diego Health’s commitment to providing exceptional care to the community. The facility is expected to serve thousands of patients, reinforcing the health system’s role as a leader in academic medicine and patient care innovation.
