National Oncology Institute earns international accreditation, marking a milestone in cancer care

The National Oncology Institute (ION) in Panama has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first public oncology hospital in Latin America and the first institution in Panama to receive international accreditation for its interventional radiology services. The certification was awarded by the Vienna-based International Alliance for Services in Interventional Oncology (Iasios).

This recognition follows a rigorous, two-year evaluation process involving audits and adherence to international standards. ION's Interventional Radiology service demonstrated exceptional quality, patient safety, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Interventional radiology allows for the treatment of various tumors through minimally invasive, image-guided procedures, promoting faster recovery and better patient quality of life.

Alex González, advisor to the Ministry of Health and president of ION's board, hailed the accreditation as an unprecedented achievement for Panama's public health system. He stated that it provides patients with the assurance of receiving world-class, safe treatments. The Ministry of Health also emphasized its support for the process, highlighting the government's commitment to enhancing specialized services, innovation, and patient safety.

ION Director General Julio Santamaría noted that the achievement was spearheaded by Héctor Tapia, head of the Imaging Service and an interventional radiologist, along with a multidisciplinary team of over 20 professionals. This success not only enhances the capabilities of the interventional radiology team but also equips them with the necessary tools and resources to deliver safer and more effective treatments, utilizing modern oncology technology for interventions in organs like the lung or liver.