Twice as many major cancers - lung, breast, colorectal and prostate - are diagnosed and more cancer patients are cared for at University than at any other area hospital. For nearly 70 years, University has led the region's fight against this disease.

Our medical staff of nearly 500 independent physicians is on the front lines of this battle. We operate the area's first stationary Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanner, which can detect cancer earlier than other diagnostic equipment and helps define the most effective treatment. And our Breast Health Center offers a one-of-a-kind approach to detecting, treating and coping with breast cancer.

Commission on Cancer Issues
Approval with Commendation

University's Cancer Program has received a three-year approval with commendation from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. Our program received the approval following an on-site evaluation by a physician surveyor. During the survey, a facility must demonstrate a commendation level of compliance with one or more standards that represent the full scope of the cancer program (cancer committee leadership, cancer data management, clinical services, research, community outreach and quality improvement).

Established in 1922 by the American College of Surgeons, the Commission on Cancer is a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education and the monitoring of comprehensive, quality care. Its membership includes Fellows of the American College of Surgeons and 40 national organizations that reflect the full spectrum of cancer care.

Receiving care at a Commission on Cancer-approved cancer program ensures that a patient will have access to the following:

Comprehensive care, including a range of state-of-the-art services and equipment
A 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 treatments results and offers lifelong patient follow-up
Ongoing monitoring and improvement of care
Quality care close to home

What Does University's Cancer services Offer You?

The area's most experienced physician team of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, pathologists, interventional radiologists and radiation oncologists, as well as the expertise of more than 400 additional specialists and primary care physicians
Weekly multi-disciplinary breast conference, bi-monthly lung conference and case planning
University's cancer program has earned continuous accreditation by the Commission on Cancer since 1986. This accreditation is given only to facilities that have voluntarily committed to provide the best in diagnosis and treatment of cancer and to undergo a rigorous evaluation process and performance review.

State-of-the-art diagnostics, including the area's first stationary PET scanner and breast MRI.
Mammosite catheter placement for radiation
Access to clinical trials
Cancer Resource Rooms with computer access, books, journals, reference materials, educational models and brochures on cancer
Clinical laboratory/pathology services
A Breast Health Center and Mobile Mammography Unit
Care management services
Comprehensive computerized cancer registry
An inpatient oncology unit staffed with certified oncology and chemotherapy nurses
Family educational library on inpatient units
Medical nutrition and rehabilitative therapy services
A lymphedema program
Wound, ostomy and continence nursing services
Home health services
Access to wireless internet
Educational outreach, support groups and pastoral services
Renewal at Second to Nature Women's Boutique

The Harry W. Jernigan Jr. Cancer Unit at University

This unit on the 10th floor of the hospital is an important reminder of University's legacy and commitment to cancer care. To honor Mr. Jernigan's longstanding commitment to University Hospital, where he died from cancer, the 24-bed cancer inpatient unit was named in his honor.

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