Questions you should ask as you choose a cancer center or hospital

1.  How many cancer patients does this center treat?

2.  Does this center specialize in my type of cancer?

3.  Does this center have teams of specialists in specific types of cancer who meet regularly to discuss cases (called tumor boards or conferences)?

4.  If so, how specialized are these teams? What types of specialists are involved in these meetings?

5.  Does the center or hospital conduct research and does it offer clinical trials for my cancer?

6.  What support services does this center provide?

7.  How will this center support my quality of life during and after treatment?

8.  Is the center designated by the National Cancer Institute?

9.  Is the center approved by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer?

10.  Is the center accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations?

11.  Is this center part of a Magnet hospital recognized for quality nursing care?

12.  What new or innovative technologies or procedures does this center offer?

13.  Is this center covered by my health plan?

14.  Is the center a part of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network?

15.  How does the facility check on and work to improve its quality of care?

16.  Does the facility explain patients’ rights and responsibilities? Are copies of this information available to patients?