America’s Best

The Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center at UC Irvine Medical Center provides fully integrated research, prevention, diagnostics, treatment and rehabilitation programs for patients and families coping with cancer. The cancer center, ranked among the nation’s best hospitals for oncology treatment by U.S. News & World Report, is Orange County’s only Comprehensive Cancer Center—the highest honor bestowed by the National Cancer Institute.

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NCI-Designated Center

We are one of only 41 National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States. This recognition reflects our expertise in translating leading-edge scientific findings into clinical practice, our commitment to cancer prevention research and our extensive community outreach and education programs.

As part of Orange County’s only university hospital, we draw on extensive resources to detect and treat cancer on all levels. Our staff includes researchers, surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, nurses, rehabilitation therapists, pharmacists, social workers and dietitians. Our multidisciplinary approach to research, prevention and treatment promotes higher standards of care.

Patient-Centered Care

We emphasize a coordinated, patient-centered approach, with most services offered within the cancer center. This makes it easier for our specialists to work together and it streamlines the experience for patients and families.

Individualized Treatment Plans

For cancer treatment to be effective, we believe the treatment must be unique to each patient.

At the cancer center, our process starts with a comprehensive clinical evaluation using a wide range of diagnostic technologies. These may include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans, endoscopy, X-rays and biopsies.

Our cancer specialists assess the extent of the problem and identify appropriate therapies as quickly as possible. Working closely with patients and families, the team presents treatment options and encourages questions. One of our goals is to help people confront their fears and adopt a proactive attitude that encourages healing.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials often compare the most accepted cancer treatment (standard treatment) with new treatments that our physicians and researchers hope will be more effective. At the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, cancer patients now have access to new therapies years ahead of the general public.

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