UK King’s Daughters will acquire Tri-State Regional Cancer Center (TSRCC), expanding its oncology services to include radiation therapy.

The acquisition was approved by the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees Healthcare Committee on Thursday and approved by the UK Board of Trustees today, Friday, April 25. It will include the 8,224 sq. ft. facility, located at 706 23rd St., Ashland, and equipment including two lead-lined vaults for radiation therapy and two linear accelerators (medical devices that deliver high-energy radiation to treat cancer). Tri-State Regional Cancer Center radiation oncologists Jeffrey Lopez, M.D., and Terry Justice, M.D., will be employed by King’s Daughters Integrated Practices following the transition.
“We are delighted to welcome Tri-State Regional Cancer Center to King’s Daughters,” King’s Daughters President and Chief Executive Officer Sara Marks said. “While we have always worked closely with TSRCC, this brings long-term surety for the practice, their patients and our community. This will be a significant addition to our oncology program, serving patients who require this important treatment.”

Tri-State Regional Cancer Center has been serving patients since 1985. Dr. Lopez and his wife, Kelly, joined King’s Daughters in 1989 and purchased the practice in 1991. TSRCC has developed exceptional cancer care through collaboration with King’s Daughters and UK HealthCare’s Markey Cancer Center. Radiation oncology services are accredited by the American College of Radiology.
“Over the past 36 years it has been our great privilege to work alongside such an outstanding team at Tri-State Regional Cancer Center,” Lopez said. “We are proud to have made a lasting impact in the lives of so many.
“As we join UK King’s Daughters, we are confident that the legacy of exceptional care and compassion that defines this center will only grow stronger. We look forward to this exciting next step and continuing to serve our community.”
The acquisition is expected to close July 1, 2025. The TSRCC staff and patients should experience a seamless transition and patients will have no changes or interruptions in their care.