Perhaps you’ve just been diagnosed, or are looking for a place to get a second opinion on how to proceed with treating your cancer. I recommend searching for Commission on Cancer (CoC) approved cancer programs.
I have worked in places that are a CoC-accredited cancer program, and others that did not have the accreditation. I’m not naming names, but the facilities that were a CoC-accredited cancer center I found to be much better at providing a range of services to help cancer patients and their family members throughout the entire process, and not just during cancer treatment.
Let’s take a look at what CoC accreditation means – what the CoC standards are that facilities must demonstrate they have in order to earn this designation, what it means for patient quality of life and patient outcomes, and how you can find CoC-accredited programs near you.
What is the Commission on Cancer?
The Commission on Cancer was developed in 1922 as part of the American College of Surgeons. This is a “consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education, and the monitoring of comprehensive quality care.”
There are over 56 member organizations which include patient advocacy groups, government agencies, and healthcare organizations representing various professions on the multidisciplinary team.
The CoC establishes quality standards of care for programs to meet in order to receive their accreditation, or stamp of approval.
This recognition shows the hospital is of high quality and reassures patients and their families that they’ll receive high-quality cancer care.
Best of all, they provide services across the full continuum of cancer – from diagnosis and cancer staging, to providing treatment, to offering clinical trials, to survivorship and even end-of-life care services.
How Does A Hospital Become CoC Approved?
CoC accreditation is a voluntary commitment from the program – it’s a lot of work on their part to get all the processes and programs in place and commit to continual improvement of these programs.
To become approved, cancer care programs must complete a long list of tasks that demonstrate they meet all standard requirements, including having the necessary programs and services available to people with cancer, facilities with state of the art equipment, healthcare providers that are up to date on the latest research and new treatments, among others.
A reviewer visits the hospital to see if the facility truly does meet the requirements. If approved, it’s a three-year accreditation.
Why Should I Look for a CoC-Approved Cancer Program?
Yeah, it’s nice that a hospital has another award they can promote, but what does it mean for you and your treatment? Let’s look at just some of the standards CoC facilities must meet.
Multidisciplinary Approach
The overall program is run by a multidisciplinary cancer committee, which makes sure there is delivery of “comprehensive patient-centered care”.
This means patients are put at the center of decisions. It’s not just doctors making decisions, but others that work with patients, including nurses, social workers, physical therapists, diagnostic radiologists, chaplains, radiation oncologists, surgeons and more.
Input is taken from each professional as decisions are made on how to best support patients.
Screening Can Lead to Early Diagnosis
Centers must provide community outreach, and education, which often is in the form of cancer screening events. These screenings for those who don’t have access to healthcare or can’t afford care can educate them cancer prevention and conduct cancer screenings.
These screenings can mean finding cancer early and we know that early diagnosis and treatments means a much better chance of successfully treating the cancer.
Patient Navigation
A cancer diagnosis is scary and overwhelming. You’re thrown into the deep end of a pool without warning and that’s why it’s so important to have someone help you through it.
The patient navigation process provides newly diagnosed patients a staff member to guide you through the health care system and overcome barriers that could prevent you from getting the care you need.
Nurse navigators take the time to help you understand your diagnosis and connect you to resources to help you decide on a treatment plan. They serve as a go-between between you and the rest of the healthcare team, answering questions and notifying doctors about side effects or other concerns you have.
Best Treatment Options
The staff is made up of cancer specialists who are experienced in treating many types of cancer and know all about the latest research to provide you the best treatment. The facility has state-of-the-art equipment to provide you the best cancer treatment experience.
Psycho-social Support
I’m a bit biased, since this is my background, but I think psychological and social support services can make all the difference in improving quality of life for people with cancer and their caregivers.
From support groups to palliative care programs and spiritual counseling, social workers, art therapists and others help provide mental and emotional support to help people with cancer and their families cope with their diagnosis and treatment.
How Do I Find a CoC Facility?
The American College of Surgeons has a CoC hospital locator to find accredited hospitals. You can search by zip code, city or state or even up to a 100 mile radius of a zip code.
So if you’re looking for a treatment center that provides patient-centered services across various cancer-related programs, search for a CoC approved cancer program near you.
