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Cancer Services

How We Compare

We know that University enjoys a high level of preference among hospitals in our region, and we also want to be ranked in the top 10 percent of U.S. hospitals. We intend to honor that trust and reputation by seeking to deliver as flawless a level of care that can be achieved.

See how we compare in the following measures:

Leading the Region in Cancer Care

For nearly 70 years, University has led the region's fight against cancer.

Our medical staff of more than 600 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 recovering from breast cancer. Our inpatient cancer unit offers a multidisciplinary patient- and family-focused approach to care.

Program Receives OutstAnding Achievement Award

In 2009 University's Cancer Program received a three-year approval with commendation and the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. University is the only hospital in Georgia and one of only 95 in the country to receive this honor. The Commission on Cancer established the outstanding Achievement Award in 2004 to recognize cancer programs that strive for excellence in providing quality care to cancer patients. A facility receives the award following the on-site evaluation by a physician surveyor during which the facility must demonstrate a commendation level of compliance with seven standards that represent the full scope of the cancer program. In addition, the facility must receive a compliance rating for the remaining 29 cancer program standards (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 500 additional specialists and primary care physicians
  • Multi-disciplinary, treatment planning conference:
    • Breast - weekly conference
    • Lung - bimonthly conference
    • Tumor Board - monthly conference
  • A cancer program that has earned continuous accreditation by the Commission on Cancer since 1986, and is the only hospital in Georgia to receive the Outstanding Achievement Award. 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. 
  • All-digital mammography
  • State-of-the-art diagnostics, including the area's first stationary PET scanner, breast MRI and endobronchial ultrasound.
  • Mammosite catheter placement for radiation
  • Access to clinical trials
  • Clinical laboratory/pathology services
  • Breast Health Center and Renewal at Second to Nature Boutique
  • The area's only Mobile Mammography Unit with advanced digital technology
  • Case 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
  • Lymphedema program
  • Wound, ostomy and continence nursing services
  • Home health services
  • Access to wireless internet
  • Educational outreach, support groups and pastoral services

Request a FREE Cancer Information Kit

If you'd like to learn more about cancer and steps you can take to reduce your risk, call University's Cancer Answer line at 706/828-2522 or toll free 866/869-2522 and request a free Cancer Information Kit.

For more information on University’s Cancer Services, call the Cancer Answer Line at 706/828-2522 or toll free 866/869-2522.

Reviewed: 8-25-10
Updated: 8-25-10

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