Dana-Farber Cancer Care Collaborative

The Dana-Farber Cancer Care Collaborative (DFCCC) includes a select group of hospitals that meet Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s rigorous standards for cancer care quality, safety, and outcomes. At Northern Light Mercy Hospital, our mission to provide high-quality, compassionate cancer care is strengthened by our membership in the Dana-Farber -- a partnership that brings world class cancer expertise to our patients right here in Maine.

To become a collaborative member, a cancer program must demonstrate a commitment to excellence by meeting a wide range of standards and best practices. This involves a rigorous review of their oncology practices and procedures by Dana-Farber clinicians and specialists, including aspects like patient safety, nursing, pharmacy, chemotherapy administration, and information systems. 

 

Benefits of the Dana-Farber Cancer Care Collaborative
As a Dana-Farber Cancer Care Collaborative member, Mercy Hospital has access to virtual consults and second opinions, support and education for physicians and nurses, and streamlined access to Dana-Farber specialists in Boston for patients with complex cancers.

How Our Patients Benefit
Patients at Northern Light Mercy Cancer Care receive the advantages of this partnership while continuing their care close to home, surrounded by a familiar team.

Key benefits include:

• Virtual second opinions with Dana-Farber subspecialty oncologists for complex or rare cancers.
• Streamlined referrals for in-person consultations at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.
• Up-to-date treatments and protocols, thanks to clinical collaboration and ongoing staff education, including participation in virtual multidisciplinary specialty tumor boards.
• Care planning guidance for Mercy’s physicians and nurses informed by Dana-Farber expertise.
• Faster access to specialized care when needed.

Whether you’re just starting your cancer journey or considering additional opinions, your care team at Mercy can facilitate access to Dana-Farber resources while staying closely involved in your care every step of the way.

Is a Dana-Farber Second Opinion Right for You?
If you or your loved one is facing a rare, aggressive, or complex cancer, your Mercy care team may recommend a second opinion from Dana-Farber subspecialists. These may be conducted:

• Virtually via telehealth, coordinated through Mercy
• In-person at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston

Our membership reflects our shared commitment to evidenced based treatment, patient centered care, continuous quality improvement, and ongoing professional development.

Still Have Questions? We’re Here.
We understand that cancer brings uncertainty. This collaboration is part of our promise to surround you with knowledge, compassion, and every resource available to support your healing and hope.

To learn more or discuss whether a Dana-Farber consult is right for you, call our Nurse Navigation Team at 207-553-6868.