Cancer program surveys are a comprehensive evaluation of the entire scope, organization, and performance of a cancer program. A survey is performed every three years by a physician surveyor who is specially trained to evaluate compliance with the 47 mandatory standards that are required for approval.
Mandatory standards are underscored for easy reference.
Each program being surveyed completes a two-part application form. Part I provides background on the structure of the program and activity since the last survey. Part II includes the evaluation standards and allows the program and surveyor to rate compliance with each standard. An independent review of a program's application and supporting documentation is performed by technical specialists in the Cancer Department at the American College of Surgeons. Program-related activity and standard ratings may also be reviewed by the multidisciplinary Program Review Subcommittee before an accreditation award is assigned.