The National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), a quality program administered by the American College of Surgeons, has granted accredited status to the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center (JACBCC) in Youngstown.

Patients receiving care at an NAPBC-accredited center also have access to information on clinical trials and new treatment options, genetic counseling and patient-centered services including psychosocial support, rehabilitation services, and survivorship care.

"Mercy Health – Youngstown and the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center are committed to providing our patients with high-quality, compassionate cancer care close to home. This accreditation underscores that dedication," said Dr. Nancy Gantt, breast surgeon and breast program lead at the Joanie Abdu Comprehensive Breast Care Center in Youngstown. "From ultrasounds, MRIs, 3D mammograms and breast molecular imaging to bone density scans, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, everything our patients need is available in one place and their care is led by an interdisciplinary team composed of radiologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, surgeons and genetic counselors."

As part of their accreditation process, NAPBC surveyors review each center's commitment to leadership, clinical services, research, community outreach, professional education and quality improvement.

Breast centers seeking NAPBC accreditation undergo a site visit every three years.

The NAPBC provides the structure and resources to develop and operate a high-quality breast center and accredited program.