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Rep. Thompson and Rep. Jenkins Introduce Resolution Recognizing Importance of Cancer Program Accreditation

September 8, 2017

Washington, DC – This week, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-05) and Rep. Lynn Jenkins (KS-02) introduced H.Res. 503, a resolution recognizing the importance of cancer program accreditation in ensuring access to high quality cancer.

"The last thing any cancer patient should have to worry about is the quality of the care they will receive," said Rep. Mike Thompson. "Accredited cancer programs give patients the full range of quality services and supports they need, giving them peace of mind as they focus on their treatment and I'm proud to introduce this resolution recognizing the importance of guaranteeing patients they'll be receiving the best care possible."

"Those suffering from cancer need all of the support and help they can get to defeat this terrible disease," said Congresswoman Jenkins. "Having an accredited program ensures folks know they are attending a high-quality cancer program as well as giving cancer programs a goal to aim for. We are fortunate to have multiple accredited programs in Kansas, and I am proud to recognize their services and what they have accomplished."

Cancer Programs led by the American College of Surgeons, including the Commission on Cancer and the National Accreditation Program of Breast Centers, are consortiums of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, and other mechanisms.

The American College of Surgeons Cancer Programs are committed to delivering comprehensive, high-quality, evidence-based, patient-centered care. This is accomplished, in part, through cancer accreditation programs," said David B. Hoyt, MD, FACS, Executive Director of the American College of Surgeons. "We're excited to see that Rep. Jenkins and Rep. Thompson recognize the College's role in accreditation and in establishing a framework for providing the best care to all cancer patients."

Voluntary accreditation of cancer centers demonstrate a program's commitment to providing high quality, comprehensive care to patients and their families. Patients treated by accredited centers have access to the full continuum of patient-centered care including patient navigation and care plans that detail treatments received and provide detailed information on future care needs.

According to a study in the Journal of Surgical Oncology, accreditation is an important factor in improving oncologic outcomes through compliance with standards that include continuous quality improvement.

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Issues:Health Care