MD Anderson named top-ranked cancer hospital in annual survey

MD Anderson News Release August 01, 2016

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center again has ranked No. 1 for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report’s annual “Best Hospitals” rankings. Since the rankings began in 1990, MD Anderson has been named one of the top two cancer hospitals in the nation and has received the top position nine times in the last 10 years.

“It’s an honor to once again be recognized as the nation’s top hospital for cancer care, which we have earned through our unrelenting passion to serve patients and fulfill our mission to end cancer,” said Ronald A. DePinho, M.D., president. “We thank our patients and their loved ones who entrust us with their care and salute the 21,000 cancer fighters and 1,000 volunteers who make up our distinctive culture of exceptional care and compassionate caring.”

Two subspecialties also were ranked in the survey’s top 10. In Ear, Nose and Throat, MD Anderson’s Head and Neck Surgery service ranked No. 9. The Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine service ranked No. 9 in Gynecology. These subspecialties are especially notable since they include all major general hospitals in the nation, not just cancer centers. Both groups consistently have been high ranked since the early 1990s. Additionally, MD Anderson’s Urology service tied for No. 36 in the national survey.

“This ranking reflects the extraordinary care delivered by our teams of highly subspecialized physicians, outstanding oncology nurses and dedicated supportive care professionals, all working together for the benefit of each patient who comes through our doors,” said Thomas Buchholz, M.D., executive vice president and physician-in-chief. “These professionals, many recognized internationally as leaders in their fields, have a great dedication, passion and expertise for their work and the patients they serve.”

The institution’s commitment to patients, innovation, mission and outreach are among the hallmarks that guided its rich 75-year history and that will direct its future. MD Anderson’s diamond anniversary, to be celebrated in November, commemorates the year the Texas Legislature passed a bill to appropriate funding for a state cancer hospital. That same year, the MD Anderson Foundation agreed to match funds if the hospital would be built in Houston. Since that time, more than 1 million patients have sought care at MD Anderson.

Today, a defining initiative for MD Anderson is its Moon Shots Program, a bold effort that is illuminating more effective ways cancer is prevented, detected and treated and how such lifesaving knowledge can be disseminated through research, policy, education and digital technology. Launched in 2012 and funded through philanthropy and grants, the program brings to bear the resources and expertise of the nation’s leading cancer center and the world’s largest clinical trials engine in a collaborative effort focusing on 12 disease targets and the single goal to end cancer.

The Moon Shots Program extends to MD Anderson’s international, domestic and local network. By collaborating with like-minded community hospitals and health systems, MD Anderson enables millions more patients to have access to its care, expertise and research-based approaches while staying closer to home.

MD Anderson has clinically integrated partners in New Jersey, Arizona and Florida as well as Spain, Turkey and Brazil. Fifteen certified member hospitals and health systems in 13 states as well as an affiliation in New Mexico further extend access to the institution’s care guidelines, second opinions and safety practices. Additionally, its Global Academic Programs oversees a network of more than 30 sister institutions working together on education and research initiatives.

In the greater Houston area, MD Anderson has five clinical locations and two diagnostic imaging centers. In addition, MD Anderson and Memorial Hermann have an integrated breast screening and imaging program at 15 locations. MD Anderson also cares for cancer patients at Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital, a part of Harris Health System.

“Our ranking as the No. 1 cancer center in our 75th anniversary year is an opportune time to reflect on our global impact. It’s also a time to assure patients and families we are committed to ending this dreaded disease,” said DePinho. “Together, with our patients, survivors, their families and friends, we are Making Cancer History.”