Backus Cancer Center first in Connecticut to win national award
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Backus Hospital’s Cancer Center has received the Commission on Cancer’s Outstanding Achievement Award, placing it among an elite group of cancer centers nationwide.
Backus is the only hospital in Connecticut to win the annual award since it was established in 2004.
The center is one of only 67 in the U.S. to receive the award, representing 15% of the programs surveyed in 2007, according to the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer.
In order to qualify, a hospital undergoes an on site review and must achieve a perfect score in a number of standards that represent the full scope of the cancer program, including:
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Clinical services
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Research
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Quality improvement
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Community outreach
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Cancer committee leadership
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Cancer data management
The award is a “remarkable achievement … recognizing cancer programs that strive for excellence in providing quality care to cancer patients,” according to the College of Surgeons’ Manager for Approvals and Standards.
“This was a true team effort by everyone involved in Cancer Services, and the many other departments that contribute to our success in areas such as technology, protocols, clinical trials, documentation and community outreach,” said Dinesh Kapur, MD, Medical Director of Cancer Services. “The ultimate beneficiaries are our patients.”
Thomas P. Pipicelli, President and Chief Executive Officer, said receiving the award further bolsters the hospital’s status as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Program, which means it delivers the best in cancer care, close to home for patients.
“I want to thank our physicians and staff for all that they do to make us the premiere cancer program in the region,” Mr. Pipicelli said. “The Commission on Cancer’s survey of our program provides an independent view of how we not only meet national standards, but exceed them.”
Donna Goss, the hospital’s certified tumor registrar who played a major role in preparing for the Commission on Cancer survey, said in addition to the award, the hospital received another 3-year accreditation as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Program with Commendation, and met all 37 national standards.
Karen Long, RN, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, said the accreditation and award are the result of a dedicated group of clinicians and support staff that put patients’ needs first.
“Patients can rest assured that when they come to Backus, they will be taken care of by a highly skilled, compassionate staff,” she said.
John Panicek, Administrative Director of Cancer Services, said his department will continue its mission to be the best cancer center in the region as it adds a new Breast Health Patient Navigator Program to help women with abnormal mammograms navigate the healthcare system.
In addition, the Diagnostic Imaging Department is adding digital mammography on the main hospital campus and off site locations.