Memorial Hermann Northwest Cancer Program Recognized by The American College of Surgeons

HOUSTON (January 15, 2010)

The American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer has granted a three-year approval with Commendation to the community cancer program at Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital.

"Accreditation by the Commission on Cancer is a testament to the strength of our cancer program and illustrates the scope and caliber of services we provide to patients close to their homes," said Gary Kerr, CEO of Memorial Hermann Northwest.

The Commission on Cancer was established by the American College of Surgeons in 1922 and is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients. Currently, just one in four hospitals in the United States and Puerto Rico has earned CoC accreditation. Accreditation is granted only to those facilities that commit to providing the highest level of quality cancer care and are willing to undergo a rigorous evaluation process and review of their performance.

In order to earn accreditation, the Cancer Program at Memorial Hermann Northwest must provide:

  • Comprehensive care, including a range of state-of-the-art services and equipment
  • Multi-specialty team approach to coordinate the best treatment options
  • Information about ongoing clinical trials and new treatment options
  • Access to cancer-related information, education and support
  • A cancer registry that collects data on type and stage of cancers and treatment results and offers lifelong patient follow-up
  • Ongoing monitoring and improvement of care
  • Quality care close to home
  • To maintain accreditation, facilities must undergo an on-site review every three years.

The physicians associated with the Cancer Program at Memorial Hermann Northwest treat all types of cancers and specialize in breast, colorectal, gynecological, lung, brain and prostate cancers. The Center offers state-of-the-art treatment options for patients, including radiation oncology, clinical trials and more. For additional information on the Cancer Program and Cancer Center at Memorial Hermann Northwest, call 713.867.3350.