UPMC Whitfield Cancer Centre Setting the Example for Standards of Cancer Care

By: Valerie Harrison

UPMC Whitfield Cancer Centre Setting the Example for Standards of Cancer CareThe UPMC Whitfield Cancer Centre, an advanced radiation therapy center serving patients in southeast Ireland, is leveraging its successful track record of delivering high-quality cancer care to assist partner clinicians in Rome.

Having successfully completed three of its own Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation surveys, the gold standard in terms of global health care, the cancer center welcomed colleagues from UPMC San Pietro FBF on March 20 to share knowledge and information related to quality and safety standards.

“While we are incredibly proud that we have been JCI-accredited since 2008, we are even more proud of how that translates into exceptional patient care and are very excited to be able to share this experience with our colleagues from Rome,” said Catriona McDonald, director of operations at UPMC Whitfield Cancer Centre.

The JCI accreditation process focuses on determining whether the right systems and processes are in place to support high-quality and safe patient care, and whether there is the culture and capacity to continuously improve care.

“Ensuring our patients receive the best possible care is our No. 1 priority, and demonstrating compliance with JCI standards serves as validation of this commitment,” said Elena Cino, director of operations at UPMC San Pietro FBF Advanced Radiotherapy Center, which is pursuing JCI accreditation. “We are fortunate to be part of UPMC’s global network where we can take advantage of the experience and expertise of our colleagues in Italy and worldwide and at a place like UPMC Whitfield.”

UPMC Whitfield Cancer Centre offers the most advanced radiation therapy to residents of the southeast region of Ireland. As part of UPMC CancerCenter, the facility leverages UPMC’s innovation and expertise from around the globe to deliver solutions and care to patients close to their homes.