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Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center Recognized with Prestigious Accreditation

The Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center (MECCC) has once again solidified its reputation as a leader in cancer care by receiving a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Cancer (CoC) of the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This re-accreditation reflects MECCC's unwavering commitment to providing top-tier cancer treatment, research, and patient care.

A Commitment to Excellence

Established in 1922, the CoC aims to improve quality care for cancer patients through an organization of professional bodies. Facilities that achieve CoC accreditation must meet or exceed 38 rigorous standards, and they undergo evaluations every three years to ensure they maintain the highest levels of patient care and safety. MECCC's latest accreditation is built on their comprehensive status received from the National Cancer Institute in 2023, marking them among the elite cancer care institutions in the nation.

Exceptional Ratings and Innovative Research

MECCC consistently ranks in the top 1% of U.S. hospitals for cancer care, according to U.S. News & World Report. Currently, 235 team members are engaged in cutting-edge, transdisciplinary research. They host over 320 active clinical trials, allowing more than 1,000 patients to participate in groundbreaking studies. Notably, about 80% of these clinical trial participants represent historically underrepresented groups, a stark contrast to the national average of just 8%.

Innovations such as the Lung Cancer Screening Program and the Follow-up Assessment of Lung Nodules Clinic (also referred to as the FAST-Clinic) utilize artificial intelligence to pinpoint and monitor patients who are at an elevated risk for lung cancer. This focused effort has led to a nearly 12% reduction in late-stage lung cancer cases in the Bronx area, an impressive accolade for MECCC’s initiatives.

Focus on Educational Initiatives

Almost all of MECCC's 200 oncology nurses participate in ongoing education programs designed to enhance patient care skills—from managing oncological emergencies to understanding patient psychosocial needs. These educational sessions are tailored specifically by nurses for nurses, highlighting their commitment to delivering comprehensive care.

Maureen Scanlan, Senior Vice President and Chief Nurse Executive at MECCC, shared, "Having these initiatives acknowledged by the CoC is incredibly gratifying, as they help in standardizing care across various oncology specialties."

Community and Patient-Centric Approach

The comprehensive nature of MECCC’s care process emphasizes patient-friendly screening methods and sophisticated surgical techniques. Brendon M. Stiles, M.D., and chief of surgical oncology, emphasizes early detection’s importance, stating that many cancers are found in their most treatable stages due to their thorough screening processes.

Edward Chu, M.D., the director of MECCC, attributes the continued CoC accreditation to the exceptional dedication of their specialists, who work tirelessly to provide the best cancer care possible.

A Mission to Reduce Cancer Impact

Founded in 1971, the Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center merges the scientific excellence found at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine with clinical expertise from the Montefiore Health System. MECCC aims to redefine standards in cancer clinical care, education, and outreach, advocating for communities that have been historically marginalized.

Their mission is clear: to reduce the burden of cancer through innovative research, exemplary patient care, and extensive community outreach. This latest recognition affirms the value of their dedicated work in the ongoing battle against cancer.