Montreal, August 21, 2009— The McGill University Health Centre has the highest number of top-ranked specialized cancer teams in the province, according to results released this week by the Direction de la lutte contre le cancer, the agency created by the Quebec Ministry of Health and Social Services to oversee cancer care across Quebec.The MUHC has the most level-four designations in the province—the highest ranking possible-- as well as the greatest number of supra-regional status designations.

“I am proud of the dedication of the MUHC’s professionals to all facets of cancer care because I know that those who must face this disease’s devastating challenges are better able to do so as a result of our efforts,” stated the Hon. Arthur T. Porter, Director General and CEO of the McGill University Health Centre. “Receiving the highest number of level-four designations and supra-regional statuses in Quebec means that we not only provide exceptional patient care, but we are also innovators and a research powerhouse. This is all part of The Best Care for Life.”

In total, 16 of the MUHC’s tumour-site teams received supra-regional designations, of which 13 achieved the highest possible rating: level four. These teams set the regional standards for cancer care, and were subject to a rigorous assessment process by the Direction de la lutte contre le cancer.

“I’m thrilled to have confirmation of the MUHC’s status as a leading cancer care centre in Quebec,” said Dr. Armen Aprikian, Chief of the Cancer Care Mission. “The MUHC’s multidisciplinary pediatric and adult cancer-care teams are active in all major cancers as well as rare ones,” he continued. “The accreditation process evaluates every aspect of care, from early screening and diagnosis to ultra-specialized treatments and innovative support. This is a testament to the quality care and academic approach to oncology at the MUHC.”

When the MUHC’s redevelopment project at the Glen, Mountain and Lachine campuses is complete, cancer care will be offered at an integrated Comprehensive Cancer Centre on the Glen Campus.

"The MUHC Redevelopment Project will allow us to translate at a faster pace our research into new approaches to prevention, diagnostics and treatments," concluded the Hon. Arthur T. Porter. "In this way, we can improve the health and well-being of the children and adults we serve. Our Comprehensive Cancer Centre on the Glen Campus, and all our modern facilities, will be the effective, healing environments that Quebecers deserve.”

The McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) is a comprehensive academic health institution with an international reputation for excellence in clinical programs, research and teaching. Its partner hospitals are the Montreal Children's Hospital, the Montreal General Hospital, the Royal Victoria Hospital, the Montreal Neurological Hospital, the Montreal Chest Institute and the Lachine Hospital. The goal of the MUHC is to provide patient care based on the most advanced knowledge in the health care field and to contribute to the development of new knowledge. www.muhc.ca [1]

For more information, please contact:
Rebecca Burns
Communications Coordinator
MUHC Public Relations and Communications
514-843-1560