Cancer is treated at hundreds of US hospitals but there are only a handful of oncology centers that are widely considered "the best of the best."
Where is the best place for a cancer patient to get treatment or a second opinion? There are 2 important "certifications" to look for .
Designations by the ("NCI") and the Nat'l Comprehensive Cancer Network ("NCCN")
Designations
Comprehensive Cancer Center
NCCN Member
Awarded by
NCI
NCCN
# in the USA
39
21
Significance
Have programs that treat virtually
all cancer types; research and
community outreach are chief
priorities.
An exclusive alliance of the "best
of the best" cancer centers (all are
also CCC-designated).
It is very helpful to know -- by
specific cancer type -- which NCCN Hospitals are conducting the
most clinical trials, and hence are more knowledgeable about that cancer.
1,500
The number of clinical trials are ongoing annually at the NCCN Hospitals.