HMC Renews Accreditation as National Breast-cancer Center

HOLYOKE — The Holyoke Medical Center Oncology Department has announced that it has once again been granted a three-year/full accreditation designation by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a program administered by the American College of Surgeons.

“It is an honor and privilege to be accredited by the NAPBC,” said Jolene Lambert, oncology nurse and certified patient navigator. “Having these credentials reflects the comprehensiveness of the care we provide. We work well with all the different providers and have the necessary support to help breast-cancer patients from the time they’re diagnosed through survivorship.”

Oncology and Women’s Center staff underwent the rigorous evaluation process this spring. HMC demonstrated proficiency and excellence in the areas of leadership, clinical management, research, community outreach, professional education, and quality improvement, said Medical Director Dr. Zubeena Mateen, who directs HMC’s Breast Cancer Program.

“We have a state-of-the-art facility, with board-certified physicians and oncologists. We offer everything — high-resolution digital mammography, MRI-guided biopsies, stereotactic core needle biopsies, surgeries, individualized treatment plans, and extensive follow-up,” Mateen noted.

 Accreditation by the NAPBC is given only to those centers that have voluntarily committed to provide the highest level of quality breast care and that undergo a rigorous evaluation process and review of their performance. The standards include proficiency in the areas of center leadership, clinical management, research, community outreach, professional education, and quality improvement. A breast center that achieves NAPBC accreditation has demonstrated a firm commitment to offer its patients every significant advantage in their battle against breast disease.