The physicians and staff of UCBC are committed to the best possible outcome for every patient who walks through our doors.

We recognize the fundamental right of each cancer patient to the highest standard of care in treatments, technologies and clinical trials of the newest therapies — all delivered with compassion and respect for individual dignity.

We value the diversity of patient views about physicians. Some people see their relationship with us as a partnership; others simply want to be taken care of. We respond in whatever way makes a patient feel most comfortable.

Our dedication to excellence is why we spend time coordinating care between patients’ doctors. Generations ago, someone with cancer was treated in the hospital with everything in one place so doctors worked closely together. Today, most patients stay at home and receive tests and treatments in several locations. That makes Coordination of Care more important than ever.

Within our group, Coordination of Care means we regularly meet to discuss each patient’s responses to treatments and his or her medical needs. This may include adjusting doses, changing treatments or adding new options to address side effects. Sometimes, we consult with outside specialists such as cardiologists, nephrologists or endocrinologists as well as our colleagues at NCI Comprehensive Centers.

We understand that cancer isn’t just physical. Healing takes place at many levels. UCBC patients have access to many support services that include emotional care, stress management, complementary medicine, nutrition counseling, and palliative care if therapy ceases to work. We give and receive a lot of hugs each day.

We know that to heal is to make whole. And healing is one of the things we do best.

All this reflects the model of excellence that distinguishes the country’s most renowned NCI Comprehensive Cancer Centers. It’s our model, too.