MIAMI, FL – January 12, 2016 – For the first time the Baptist Health Breast Center of Miami Cancer Institute, has earned full accreditation from the American College of Surgeons’ National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers.“Receiving three-year, full accreditation with all 12 commendations, is only granted to breast centers that receive ratings of 90 percent or more in all standards. To receive such high honors on our first accreditation is an extraordinary accomplishment,” said Leonard Kalman, M.D., deputy director and chief clinical officer of Miami Cancer Institute. “We are extremely proud of the Breast Center’s multi disciplinary team and their dedication to provide high-quality patient-centered care to our patients and their families.”Accreditation by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC) is only given to those centers that have undergone a rigorous evaluation process and review of their performance. To maintain accreditation, centers must monitor compliance with NAPBC standards to assure quality care and undergo an on-site review every three years.

“Our team of professionals strives every day to meet the high goals set forth by NAPBC, and this prestigious recognition truly demonstrates our commitment to offer patients every significant advantage in their battle against breast disease,” said Gladys Giron, M.D., chair of the Breast Program Leadership and Board-certified breast surgeon at Miami Cancer Institute. “The accreditation reassures breast cancer patients will receive excellent care.”

Baptist Health Breast Center patients will have access to:

• Comprehensive care, including a full range of the most advanced services.
• A multidisciplinary team approach to coordinate the best treatment options.
• Information about ongoing clinical trials and new treatment options.
• Quality breast care close to home.

The NAPBC accreditation challenges breast cancer centers to enhance the care they provide by addressing patient-centered needs and measuring the quality of the care they deliver against national standards.

For 28 years, Baptist and South Miami hospitals were individually approved by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer. In 2000, they combined their resources and professional expertise into one network that provides cancer patients integrated and comprehensive services at both facilities.

Miami Cancer Institute is a world-class clinical center and research destination, offering comprehensive cancer services with expanding clinical trials and state-of-the-art technology, including the first proton therapy treatment in South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean. Miami Cancer Institute is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with seven hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), nearly 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence. The not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health has approximately 16,000 employees and 2,300 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.