The American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) was established in 1922 as “a consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education, and the monitoring of comprehensive quality care." Members include surgeons and more than 56 organizations including government agencies, patient advocacy groups, and more. The CoC establishes quality standards and accredits cancer programs based on those standards. Those standards and accredited programs are reviewed periodically to ensure the highest quality of care.
The CoC recently released its 2020 CoC accreditation standards, Optimal Resources for Cancer Care. The new standards are set for implementation beginning January 1, 2020 and continuing through 2021 for Phase-In standards.
Among the new additions are standards specific to breast, colorectal, skin, and lung cancer care.
Additionally, Standard 4.8 calls for the establishment of a Survivorship Program, combining elements from the old Survivorship Care Plan standard and recommendations from CoC and other member organizations. This new standard requires accredited organizations to establish a Survivorship Program under the guidance of the cancer committee. The appointed program coordinator and team will offer a slate of services such as treatment summaries, survivorship care plans, screening for recurrence and new cancers, rehabilitation services, support groups, psychological services, formalized referrals, or financial support services. This standard is intended to encompass all the survivorship care needs during and after treatment for the growing population of survivors.
To learn more, visit the CoC website to download the standards, check out in-person trainings and online webinar opportunities.
