Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at The Hospital of Central Connecticut Celebrates 10 Years

New Britain, Conn. — The Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at The Hospital of Central Connecticut (HOCC) marked a major milestone this week, celebrating ten years of delivering exceptional, patient-centered cancer care to communities across central Connecticut.

Since opening in 2015, the Cancer Institute at HOCC has become one of the region’s most advanced, patient-centered cancer programs. By combining state-of-the-art technology, multidisciplinary expertise, and nationally recognized standards, it has significantly expanded access and elevated the quality of care for communities across central Connecticut.

“This Cancer Institute has transformed cancer care in our region—not just with technology and innovation, but with deep compassion,” said Gina Calder, President of The Hospital of Central Connecticut. “Thousands of individuals and families across our communities have found healing, hope, and strength here. The work of our cancer teams is nothing short of extraordinary.”

“The Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute at The Hospital of Central Connecticut represents everything we strive for as a healthcare system — clinical excellence, innovation, and a relentless commitment to compassionate, personalized care,” said Jeffrey A. Flaks, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hartford HealthCare. “Over the past decade, this Institute has not only advanced how cancer is treated but has transformed the experience for every patient and family who walks through its doors. This is a milestone worth building on and celebrating.”

The Cancer Institute offers a comprehensive, integrated approach to care, providing access to medical oncology, radiation, surgery, imaging, infusion, supportive services, and a dedicated team of navigators and specialists who guide patients through every step of their cancer journey.

A Decade of Impact and Innovation

In the past ten years, the Cancer Institute has made tremendous contributions to cancer care in the community, including:

• National accreditations have recognized the Institute’s high standards in safety, quality, and innovation. (EXAMPLES?)
• More patients have taken advantage of infusion therapy visits, which have increased more than 300%.
• Radiology services are now offered regionally, now serving tens of thousands more patients each year.
• Radiation oncology advancements have improved outcomes and reduced treatment time.
• Pharmacy operations have expanded nearly tenfold.

A Comprehensive Model of Cancer Care

The Cancer Institute’s strength lies in its integrated, multidisciplinary approach, offering services that span:

• Medical & Surgical Oncology
• Radiation Therapy
• Radiology & Imaging
• Infusion & Specialty Pharmacy
• Nurse Navigation
• Geriatric Oncology
• Women’s Health Coordination
• Oncology Psychosocial Counseling
• Financial Coordination
• Rehabilitation & Supportive Care

HOCC has also expanded cancer services to Southington, Torrington, and MidState, ensuring more patients across the region receive the same high level of coordinated care.

National Recognition & Accreditations

• Commission on Cancer Accreditation
• NAPRC Accreditation (National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer)
• ACR Accreditation for Imaging & Radiation Oncology
• QOPI Certification for quality, safety, and evidence-based practices
• Designated Age-Friendly Institute – supporting care tailored to older adults

An anniversary celebration took place today at the George Bray Cancer Center in New Britain. The event featured remarks from clinical leaders, public officials, and partners who have supported the Cancer Institute’s mission since its opening in 2015.