Atlanta
V.A. Medical Center Cancer Program Earns National Approval
The Atlanta
Veteran Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) recently received accreditation
from the American College of Surgeons (ACoS) as an approved cancer program.
All approved programs must meet the standards set by the ACoS Committee
on Approvals to ensure that they provide patients with a full range
of diagnostic, treatment and supportive services either on-site or by
referral.
"We are extremely proud that
we are able to offer our veterans this high assurance of quality care,"
said Maria Ribeiro, MD, director of oncology at the VAMC and assistant
professor at Emory University's Winship Cancer Institute.
The ACoS Commission on Cancer
Approvals program is recognized by national health care organizations,
including the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations,
as a method for establishing performance measures for high-quality cancer
care.
In addition, the Commission
requires all staff members within the approved program to participate
in ongoing cancer education to remain abreast of current knowledge and
changes to cancer prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment
and follow-up care.
"Ongoing cancer education
and medical training are a top priority for us," said Dr. Ribiero.
Accreditation of its cancer
program also qualifies the VAMC to partner with the ACoS Commission
on Cancer in the American Cancer Society's national cancer information
and referral project. The VAMC will share information on resources and
experience for the American Cancer Society's National Call Center and
Web site, which provides patients with information on approved cancer
programs that provide services in their local area.
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