Female scientist looking at male colleague conducting cancer research. Confident doctors are working at biosafety cabinet. They are in laboratory.
There is an exciting new frontier in the fight against cancer: Immunotherapy is transforming cancer treatment by harnessing the power of the body’s own immune system to identify and attack cancer cells. Inova Schar Cancer is expanding access to these treatments through advanced cellular therapies.
Inova is now accredited by the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT) for stem cell transplant and immune effector cell therapy. This distinction recognizes Inova’s adherence to rigorous international standards for quality, safety and excellence in cellular therapy.
At Inova Schar Cancer, innovative therapies such as stem cell transplant, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (known as TIL), chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy and bispecific antibodies are opening new possibilities for cancers that were once considered difficult to treat. For many patients, these therapies offer the promise of long-term remission and, in some cases, a cure.
Launched in late 2024, the Inova Stem Cell Transplant and Immunotherapy Program combines advanced clinical care with an integrated, state-of-the-art cell processing laboratory that supports stem cell transplant, CAR-T therapy and other innovative immunotherapy approaches for patients with blood cancers and complex marrow disorders. The team cared for 33 patients in 2025 and is on track to treat even more in 2026.
Before this program’s launch, patients across Northern Virginia needed to travel to centers hours away for these leading-edge therapies. Because treatment can require an inpatient stay of four to six weeks or longer, receiving care at a distant center can be very difficult for individuals and their families.
“Our vision for this program is that it will meet a significant need for cell therapy resources in our region,” said Inova hematologist-oncologist Stephen Medlin, DO. “FACT accreditation is important for any program that wants to perform cellular therapy, because it is only awarded to programs that demonstrate the highest standards for safety, quality and outcomes.”
The program offers stem cell transplant, cellular therapy and advanced immunotherapy treatments designed to help the immune system better recognize and attack cancer cells. These treatments can be used for a range of blood cancers and other disorders including multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndrome, myelofibrosis and acute leukemia, as well as aplastic anemia and sickle cell disease.
CAR-T therapy is a specialized immunotherapy approach in which a patient’s T-cells are collected and genetically modified to target cancer cells more precisely. Once infused back into the patient’s body, these engineered cells help identify and destroy cancer cells. CAR-T is used for lymphoma as well as multiple myeloma.
The Inova Stem Cell Transplant and Immunotherapy Program is designed to streamline care by integrating the hospital, cancer program and cell processing laboratory within one coordinated system. This structure supports continuity across evaluation, treatment and recovery while helping simplify care for patients and referring physicians.
“We’ve designed our team to work well with referring providers, ensuring a smooth transition both to our center and then back to the referring provider, so the continuity of care feels seamless from the patient’s perspective,” Dr. Medlin said.
Patients are supported by a multidisciplinary team that includes transplant physicians, hematologists, nurses, immunotherapy specialists and supportive care professionals working together throughout treatment.
Recently, Inova’s cellular therapy team won Inova’s first DAISY Team Award, a national nursing excellence award honoring teams that go above and beyond to provide excellent, compassionate care.
“Our DAISY Team Award is an indicator of how dedicated we are to taking a team approach to delivering patient care, both within Inova and with our referring providers as well,” Dr. Medlin said.
Inova’s FACT accreditation reflects the health system’s commitment to delivering advanced, evidence-based cellular therapy care for patients across the region.
“FACT accreditation distinguishes Inova Schar Cancer as a leader in cellular therapy and recognizes the expertise, collaboration and rigorous standards upheld by our team,” said Dr. Medlin. “It reinforces our dedication to delivering safe, high-quality, innovative care for our patients.”
Patients and caregivers also have access to integrated support services through Inova Peterson Life with Cancer®, including counseling, wellness programs, education and emotional support throughout treatment and recovery. The program’s coordinated model allows many patients to receive advanced treatment while remaining connected to their family and support systems during care.
Learn more about the Inova Stem Cell Transplant and Immunotherapy Program.
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