Inova Breast Care Institute at Inova Fairfax Hospital Named an Accredited Breast Care Center

Hospital One of the First in Region to Earn Recognition

Falls Church, VA  – (July 13, 2009) — The Inova Breast Care Institute at Inova Fairfax Hospital is one of the first in the D.C. region to earn a three-year accreditation in breast care from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), part of the American College of Surgeons, which sets the standard for how breast cancer patients receive care.

The Inova Breast Care Institute at Inova Fairfax Hospital earned accreditation by meeting or exceeding seven standards of breast cancer care during an on-site review. The institute was evaluated for its imaging technology, extensive radiation- and oncology-treatment options, reconstructive surgery, survivorship programs, leadership, cutting-edge research and a breast care navigator who helps patients through their diagnosis and treatment.

“Being one of the first breast care centers to receive this accreditation demonstrates that the Inova Breast Care Institute has a commitment to provide quality care for our patients,” said Kirsten Edmiston, MD, Medical Director, Cancer Services, Inova Health System. “This designation by NAPBC assures our patients that they’re receiving first-class, state-of-the-art care from a facility that has achieved a superior level of expertise in breast cancer care. The Inova Breast Care Institute is more than just one hospital and one doctor – it’s an entire healthcare system devoted to providing the very best in breast care.”

Currently, fewer than 70 breast centers nationwide have earned this recognition from NAPBC, which represents organizations dedicated to the improvement of the quality of care for patients with breast care issues.

The Inova Breast Care Institute offers a multidisciplinary team of nearly 100 experts across the System who provide a full range of breast cancer care. With access points at each Inova hospital, Inova provides more breast cancer care than any other healthcare organization in Northern Virginia, treating more than 1,000 women each year.

Inova Health System is a not-for-profit healthcare system based in Northern Virginia that consists of hospitals and other health services, including emergency- and urgent-care centers, home care, nursing homes, mental health and blood donor services, and wellness classes. Governed by a voluntary board of community members, Inova’s mission is to improve the health of the diverse community it serves through excellence in patient care, education and research. Inova provides a healthy environment for its patients, families, visitors, staff and physicians by prohibiting tobacco use on its campuses.