As the nation’s primary cancer research agency, the National Cancer Institute's (NCI) mission is to reduce the burden of cancer for all. Extensive research shows the greatest risk in the future for mortality from cancer may be access to optimal care. NCI estimates that 85 percent of cancer patients are diagnosed and receive at least their first round of treatment at community hospitals. Many people choose community hospitals because they are closer to home, work and family, finding larger cancer centers out of reach for economic or personal reasons.
In 2007, NCI launched the National Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP) to examine how to best provide patients access to the latest scientific advances in cancer care through community hospitals.
In recognition of Northside Hospital Cancer Institute's reputation and accomplishments the NCI has chosen Northside to join this exclusive group of 30 community cancer centers in the nation. NCCCP hospitals provide care spanning the cancer continuum – from prevention, screening, diagnoses, treatment and survivorship.
Enhancing Patient Care – There are three primary benefits for patients and the community.
Care close to home – For many cancer patients the best cancer care and access to clinical trials is simply out of reach because it requires too much travel and time away from family and jobs. The NCCCP was founded on the principle that patients should not have to travel to receive the highest level of cancer care.
Nurse Navigator - Nurse navigators are specialty-trained to help guide patients after diagnoses and through treatment, educating and supporting them to make informed decisions. They work with radiologists, pathologists, surgeons, oncologist and other specialists to coordinate your treatment plan.
Clinical Trials – Patients at NCCCP hospitals have greater opportunities to participate in clinical trials and access to enhanced screening, palliative care and other services.
Palliative Care Team – Palliative care is a partnership among patients, medical specialists and family members to ensure the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of a patient are met. Northside’s Palliative Care Team is interdisciplinary, combining the expertise and knowledge of physicians, nurse practitioners, medical social workers and chaplains who have specialized training in helping patients to treat the discomfort, symptoms and stress of a serious illness.
For more information call (404) 300-2800
Click here for a list of participating NCCCP Physicians
Visit the NCI website to learn more about NCCCP
Northside Areas of Specialty:
Blood & Marrow Transplant Program
Women’s Cancer Program
Prostate Cancer Program
