The CUH/UCC Cancer Centre is now one of an international network of 159 cancer centres offering excellence in cancer care, having achieved the highest possible European accreditation.
Now a designated Organisation of European Cancer Institutes (OECI) Cancer Centre, this accreditation recognises excellence in cancer care, research, education and training and the news has been welcomed by HSE South West. It marks a significant milestone in the development of the Cancer Centre – an innovative collaboration between Cork University Hospital and University College Cork – with strong regional support from HSE South West.
The OECI is an international network of 159 cancer centres dedicated to fostering collaboration and improving care. They provide the gold standard for cancer accreditation in Europe, with performance assessments in both hospital and university settings. The CUH/UCC unit is the fourth centre in Ireland to gain the accreditation.
During the extensive audit, OECI auditors praised several strengths of the CUH/UCC Cancer Centre including staff engagement in the process, the quality and dedication of healthcare teams and clinical research and trials.
Clinical Director of the Cancer Centre, Dr Dearbhaile Collins said that the accreditation is a ‘tremendous achievement for the CUH/UCC Cancer Centre and its committed staff’.
“It acknowledges our excellence in both clinical care and research and provides a framework by which we can constantly strive for the highest quality cancer care, on a par with centres across Europe and the world. What this means for our patients is that you know you are receiving the highest expert care for your cancer right here at home in Cork.”
A key feature of OECI is a requirement to link patient care, research and education under one common vision and strategy. Accreditation strengthens the centre’s position nationally and internationally, promoting collaborations and maximising opportunities for international funding.
The CUH/UCC Cancer Centre team will receive their accreditation at a ceremony taking place in Athens, in June.
