Why Choose Us

At The University of Kansas Cancer Center, we understand the fear and uncertainty that accompany a cancer diagnosis. Our cancer specialists provide highly personalized and compassionate care to people from across the U.S. and around the globe. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should turn to us for expert cancer care close to home.

We are a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, the only one in Kansas and 1 of fewer than 60 in the United States. Patients treated at NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers have a 25% greater chance of survival compared to other cancer centers. NCI-designated cancer centers are pioneers in cancer research, recognized for their scientific leadership, resources and depth of research in basic, clinical and population sciences. To maintain our NCI designation, we go through a rigorous, highly competitive process to demonstrate our contributions to reducing the cancer burden in our region and throughout Kansas and western Missouri.

U.S. News & World Report

For the 12th year, our cancer program was listed among the nation’s top 50 by U.S. News & World Report. We are the only cancer program in the region to receive this recognition

Groundbreaking scientific research

Our pivotal research and innovative clinical care yield new therapies years before they are widely available. We feel a deep personal obligation to cure all cancers, and we work toward this goal by conducting basic, clinical and population sciences research. Our basic scientists and clinicians work closely together, bridging the gap between the laboratory and application to patient care in the clinic. By increasing our understanding of cancer risk factors, developing new and improved screening methods for cancer prevention and early detection, as well as applying basic laboratory discoveries to create new and improved cancer therapies, we can make a difference.

Advancing treatment with clinical trials

We are constantly developing studies to help find better ways of preventing, diagnosing and treating various types of cancer. Our physicians and scientists lead clinical studies and serve as principal investigators for nationwide, multicenter clinical trials. As a clinical trial participant, you may benefit by having access to potential advancements in cancer care that may lead to innovations in cancer prevention and treatment.

Nurse navigators by your side

You are not alone on your cancer journey because we have more than 30 cancer-specific nurse navigators to guide you through initial testing and appointments. These cancer specialists answer your questions and provide emotional support every step of the way. Your navigator then remains an additional resource for you throughout your cancer journey.

Interdisciplinary approach to care

We apply an interdisciplinary approach to cancer care, with close collaboration among cancer specialists. These experts are united in making sure you receive the safest and most effective treatment designed specifically for you.

Treating more than cancer

We treat the whole person, not just the disease. Our commitment to excellence and dedication to eliminating cancer is fundamental to the care we provide.

Our highest priority is to provide you and your loved ones with exceptional medical and supportive care. We take the time to develop a highly personalized treatment plan for you.

As part of our comprehensive cancer care, we also provide prescriptive and extensive support services that are integral to your overall health and well-being. These include:

• Cancer rehabilitation
• Cardio-oncology
• Fertility preservation
• Financial counseling
• Genetic counseling
• Onco-nutrition services
• Onco-psychology
• Pain and symptom management
• Palliative care
• Personal appearance services
• Social workers services
• Spiritual support
• Support groups and wellness programs
• Survivorship programs
• Travel concierge services
• Turning Point