How to Choose a Cancer Center

Choosing a cancer center doesn't have to add to the stress you're already under, whether newly diagnosed or helping a friend or family member. A top cancer center can provide the latest treatments, expert second opinions and referrals.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Visit the website of the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The NCI maintains a list (see Additional Resources) of NCI Designated Cancer Centers. These centers are located all over the United States. At these centers you'll find the top doctors and researchers on the leading edge of the fight against cancer. Make a note of the NCI centers nearest you.

2. 

   Go to U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best Hospitals" website. The magazine pays an independent research firm to rank hospitals and medical centers, using a careful methodology.
   Click on cancer as a specialty, and make a short list of the top hospitals nearest you.
   Check to see if there is another specialty--one that covers the organ or system that is affected by cancer. For example, if you are looking for a hospital that should be great at treating prostate cancer, look for the top urology hospitals as well.
   See if you have any hospitals on your list that are matches for both the part of the body affected as well as cancer in general.

3. Look over your lists. Hopefully, you will have identified some medical centers of excellence. Make a short list and show it to your current doctor(s). Contact your insurance company and see if those hospitals are covered.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't panic.
• Don't rely on anecdotes.
• Be proactive.
• Read widely about your cancer.
• If you are totally bewildered and don't know where to start, pick up the phone and call the American Cancer Society 24/7 at 1 (800) ACS-2345 .

Resources

• US News & World Report
• NCI Designated Cancer Centers

[egadlage]

on 11/5/2009 Thanks for your post...also check out www.theteamdoctors.com
VIP Access to the top physician networks in the country