St. Mary’s Medical Center and its cancer and breast care centers in Grand Junction have received accreditation for patient care.

The American Society for Radiation Oncology Accreditation Program for Excellence accredited the radiation oncology program at St. Mary’s Medical Center Cancer Centers of Colorado.

Only 200 facilities nationwide have received the accreditation. St. Mary’s first received the accreditation in 2018 and was reaccredited.

The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers of the American College of Surgeons accredited the St. Mary’s Breast Care Center at Pavilion Imaging.

In addition, St. Mary’s cancer center offers a Commission on Cancer-accredited program, meaning it meets standards for quality and comprehensive care.

“These accreditations show our commitment to providing comprehensive, high-quality services to deliver care when needed to area residents close to where they live,” said Kevin Dryanski, director of the oncology service line and laboratory services at St. Mary’s. “We truly live our mission of providing comprehensive care close to home.”

The American Society for Radiation Oncology Accreditation Program for Excellence evaluates practices using consensus-based standards. Cancer centers must demonstrate safety and quality processes as well as offered patient-centered care.

To receive accreditation, the St. Mary’s Breast Care Center had to show compliance with program standards on clinical services, community outreach, leadership, quality improvement and professional education. Participating centers undergo site visits every three years.

Patients at accredited breast care centers have access to information on clinical trials and new treatment options as well as genetic counseling. Psychosocial support, rehabilitation and survivorship care services also are offered.