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01. History

History of the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center of UAB Hospital

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital is home to the O’Neal Comprehensive Care Center. This center is highly regarded for its work in cancer care. Depending on the treatment they need, patients may see specialists at the O’Neal Cancer Center or the Kirklin Clinic.

The O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center was established in 1971, becoming the only National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Alabama. It was one of the original eight cancer centers to receive this recognition.

The O’Neal Cancer Center treats roughly 5,000 new cancer patients each year and provides ongoing care to more than 20,000 patients. About 400 doctors, researchers and scientists are part of the UAB health network. This allows patients to choose from an array of doctors with varied expertise.

UAB is also heavily involved in cancer research, with about 200 active clinical trials at any given time. Many exciting advances in oncology have come out of the O’Neal Cancer Center in recent years. This includes chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy, immunotherapy and diets for mesothelioma patients.

02. Mesothelioma Care

Mesothelioma Care at the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center of UAB Hospital

At the O’Neal Cancer Center, mesothelioma patients can find specialized treatment for their cancer. Its related facility, the Kirklin Clinic, is one of the busiest outpatient centers in the country. They use the latest methods in clinical cancer care and offer the highest quality health services. This includes the most current and advanced cancer treatments and interventional therapies.

The center offers expert personalized care for patients’ specific cancer types, including mesothelioma. Each patient is treated with a comprehensive approach, so experts from different disciplines, like thoracic surgery and radiology, work together to develop unique mesothelioma treatment plans. Patients may be treated with a multimodal approach, which combines various treatments for promising results.

For decades, the UAB Hospital has provided patients with some of the best cancer care possible. This includes detection, diagnosis, treatment, supportive care and survivorship. Mesothelioma patients may also be able to access cutting-edge treatments through the many clinical trials offered at UAB.

03. Specializations

O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center of UAB Hospital Specializations

04. Accreditations

O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center and UAB Hospital Accreditations

  • American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) Accreditation Program for Excellence® (APEx)
  • Becker’s Review of 100 Great Hospitals in America
  • Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)
  • NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center designation
  • U.S. News & World Report Best Hospital
05. Hospital Services

Patient and Family Services at the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center of UAB Hospital

The UAB cancer center has many support services available for patients and their loved ones. These services focus on physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Through some specific programs and its dedicated Supportive Care Clinic, this center offers:

06. Offsite Services in Birmingham

Patient and Family Services in the O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center Area

Birmingham is one of the largest cities in Alabama. Many mesothelioma cancer support services are available in the area. The UAB Hospital has a major cancer center, so it offers many of these services itself. But patients may also find cancer resources, like support groups and counseling, outside of this hospital.

Cancer Support Groups
Hospice Care
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
Transportation and Lodging