Top 10 Cancer Treatment Centers in Mississippi
Navigating a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially when facing a terminal illness. Knowing you have access to quality care is crucial. Mississippi offers numerous cancer centers with advanced treatments, experienced teams, and compassionate support. This comprehensive guide highlights ten of the top cancer treatment centers in Mississippi, providing hope and detailed information to help you make informed decisions about your care. We understand the urgency and emotional weight of this journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way.
This list is not exhaustive and is intended to provide a starting point for your research. It is essential to consult with your physician or oncologist to determine the most appropriate treatment center and plan for your specific situation.
Quick Reference Comparison
Compare key features at a glance to help narrow your search
| Cancer Center | Academic Status | Top Specialties | Clinical Trials | Network | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UMMC Cancer Center (Jackson) | ✓ Academic Medical Center | Breast, Lung, Colorectal | Extensive | Single Location | Complex Cases/Research |
| Baptist Cancer Center (Multiple Locations) | — | Breast, Lung, Prostate | Limited | Multiple Locations | Statewide Access |
| St. Dominic Hospital Cancer Center (Jackson) | — | Breast, Lung, Colorectal | Limited | Single Location | Community Hospital Care |
| Forrest General Hospital (Hattiesburg) | — | Breast, Lung, Prostate | Limited | Single Location | South Mississippi |
| Singing River Cancer Center (Pascagoula) | — | Breast, Lung, Colorectal | Limited | Single Location | Gulf Coast Region |
| Merit Health Wesley (Hattiesburg) | — | Breast, Lung, Prostate | Limited | Single Location | Pine Belt Region |
| North Mississippi Medical Center (Tupelo) | — | Breast, Lung, Colorectal | Limited | Single Location | North Mississippi |
| Anderson Regional (Meridian) | — | Breast, Lung, Prostate | Limited | Single Location | East Central MS/Alabama |
| Rush Foundation Hospital (Meridian) | — | Breast, Lung, Colorectal | Limited | Single Location | Meridian Community |
| Southwest MS Regional Medical Center (McComb) | — | Breast, Lung, Prostate | Limited | Single Location | Southwest Rural Area |
Legend: ✓ Comprehensive = NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center (highest designation) | ✓ Designated = NCI-designated Cancer Center | — = Not NCI-designated
1. University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) Cancer Center and Research Institute (Jackson, MS)
As Mississippi's only academic medical center, UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute provides the state's most comprehensive cancer care with extensive research programs and clinical trial opportunities.
Strengths
- Mississippi's only academic medical center dedicated to cancer care and research
- Comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer care with over 50 specialists
- Extensive clinical trial program offering access to cutting-edge therapies not widely available
- Advanced diagnostic imaging and treatment technologies including PET/CT and advanced radiation therapy
- Active cancer research programs contributing to national studies and treatment advances
- Designated as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence
- Only facility in Mississippi offering certain specialized treatments and clinical trials
Specialties
- Breast cancer with comprehensive screening, diagnosis, and treatment programs
- Lung and thoracic cancers with advanced surgical and radiation options
- Colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers with multidisciplinary teams
- Hematologic malignancies (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma) with bone marrow transplant capabilities
- Prostate and genitourinary cancers with advanced diagnostic and treatment options
- Head and neck cancers with specialized surgical teams
- Gynecologic oncology with minimally invasive surgical options
Patient Support Areas
- Comprehensive psychosocial oncology services including counseling and support groups
- Financial counseling to help navigate insurance and identify assistance programs
- Dedicated patient navigators to coordinate complex care across specialties
- Nutritional counseling with registered oncology dietitians
- Palliative care team integrated throughout treatment journey
- Cancer rehabilitation services including physical and occupational therapy
- Spiritual care services available to patients and families
Things to Consider
- As the state's major academic center, wait times for initial consultations may extend 2-3 weeks
- Located in Jackson, requiring travel for patients in other regions of Mississippi
- Complex academic medical center environment may feel overwhelming for some patients
- Parking can be challenging at the main campus (valet and shuttle services available)
- Some specialized services and clinical trials only available at main Jackson location
UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute is Mississippi's only academic medical center, meaning it's the only facility in the state that combines clinical cancer care with active research programs and medical education. This unique status provides access to clinical trials and specialized expertise not available at community hospitals.
2. Baptist Cancer Center (Multiple Locations Throughout Mississippi)
Baptist Cancer Center operates multiple locations across Mississippi, providing accessible, comprehensive cancer care through the Baptist Memorial Health Care network.
Strengths
- Multiple locations throughout Mississippi offering convenient access to care
- Affiliation with Baptist Memorial Health Care provides strong regional network and resources
- American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer accredited programs
- Comprehensive cancer services at each location including medical and radiation oncology
- Participation in national clinical trial networks through collaborative partnerships
- Strong community outreach with cancer screening and education programs
- Coordinated care across Baptist network facilities
Specialties
- Breast cancer care with screening, surgery, and comprehensive treatment
- Lung cancer program with advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities
- Prostate cancer treatment with multiple therapy options
- Colorectal cancer with surgical and medical oncology expertise
- Advanced radiation therapy including IMRT, 3D conformal radiation, and stereotactic techniques
- Chemotherapy and immunotherapy programs
- Minimally invasive surgical options for various cancer types
Patient Support Areas
- Social work services addressing practical and emotional needs
- Nutritional counseling to support patients during treatment
- Spiritual care services for patients and families
- Support groups at multiple locations throughout the state
- Financial counseling and assistance with treatment costs
- Patient education resources and materials
- Community education and cancer prevention programs
Things to Consider
- Not NCI-designated, so research intensity and clinical trial access more limited than academic centers
- Service quality and specialist availability may vary across network locations
- Complex or rare cancers may require referral to UMMC or out-of-state comprehensive centers
- Some advanced treatments may only be available at specific Baptist locations
- Wait times and appointment availability can vary by location
3. St. Dominic Hospital Cancer Center (Jackson, MS)
St. Dominic Hospital Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer care in a community hospital setting, emphasizing personalized attention and compassionate care.
Strengths
- Community hospital environment offering more intimate, personalized care experience
- Commission on Cancer accreditation ensuring quality standards
- Located in Jackson, providing access to capital city medical resources
- Multidisciplinary cancer care teams coordinating treatment plans
- Advanced radiation therapy equipment and techniques
- Experienced oncology nursing staff specializing in cancer care
- Convenient infusion center for chemotherapy and other IV treatments
Specialties
- Breast cancer with comprehensive surgical and medical oncology
- Lung cancer treatment with radiation and chemotherapy options
- Colorectal cancer surgical and medical management
- Medical oncology services including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies
- Radiation oncology with IMRT and other advanced techniques
- Surgical oncology with minimally invasive options when appropriate
- Infusion therapy services for various cancer treatments
Patient Support Areas
- Individual counseling services for patients and family members
- Nutritional support and dietary counseling during treatment
- Financial assistance programs and counseling services
- Social work services to address practical needs
- Support groups connecting patients with similar diagnoses
- Spiritual care through hospital chaplaincy services
- Pain management and symptom control programs
Things to Consider
- Smaller program than UMMC with fewer specialized sub-programs
- Clinical trial availability more limited than academic medical centers
- Complex or rare cancers may benefit from consultation at comprehensive centers
- Some advanced technologies not available on-site
- Specialist availability may be more limited than larger cancer centers
- Parking and campus navigation generally easier than larger medical centers
4. Forrest General Hospital Cancer Center (Hattiesburg, MS)
Forrest General Hospital Cancer Center serves South Mississippi with comprehensive cancer services, providing crucial access to quality care for the southern region of the state.
Strengths
- Serves as major cancer center for South Mississippi region
- Commission on Cancer accredited program meeting national quality standards
- Comprehensive cancer services including medical, surgical, and radiation oncology
- Cancer registry tracking outcomes and quality measures
- Experienced oncology team with commitment to patient-centered care
- Partnership with regional healthcare network for coordinated care
- Convenient location for patients in southern Mississippi and nearby Louisiana
Specialties
- Breast cancer comprehensive program with screening through survivorship
- Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment services
- Prostate cancer with multiple treatment modalities
- Colorectal cancer surgical and medical oncology
- Medical oncology including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies
- Radiation oncology with modern equipment and techniques
- Surgical oncology with experienced cancer surgeons
Patient Support Areas
- Social work services addressing emotional and practical challenges
- Nutritional counseling to maintain health during treatment
- Spiritual care services for patients and families
- Support groups for patients and caregivers
- Financial counseling to help manage treatment costs
- Patient education materials and resources
- Community outreach and cancer prevention programs
Things to Consider
- Limited clinical trial access compared to academic medical centers
- Complex cancers may require consultation or referral to UMMC or out-of-state centers
- Fewer subspecialty oncology programs than larger comprehensive centers
- Some advanced treatments may require travel to Jackson or out of state
- Rural location may require significant travel for patients in outlying areas
- Specialist availability more limited than major academic centers
5. Singing River Cancer Center (Pascagoula, MS)
Singing River Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer care to patients on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, ensuring regional access to quality oncology services.
Strengths
- Only comprehensive cancer center serving Mississippi Gulf Coast region
- Convenient access for coastal communities and southern Mississippi
- Comprehensive cancer services including all major treatment modalities
- Experienced oncology team committed to compassionate care
- Modern facilities and treatment equipment
- Multidisciplinary approach with coordinated care teams
- Community-focused care understanding regional patient needs
Specialties
- Breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and comprehensive treatment
- Lung cancer management with medical and radiation oncology
- Colorectal cancer surgical and medical treatment programs
- Medical oncology with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies
- Radiation oncology with advanced treatment techniques
- Surgical oncology for various cancer types
- Infusion services for chemotherapy and supportive care
Patient Support Areas
- Counseling services for patients and family members
- Nutritional support during cancer treatment
- Financial assistance and counseling services
- Social work addressing practical needs and resources
- Support groups connecting patients in the coastal community
- Pain management and palliative care consultations
- Patient navigation assistance
Things to Consider
- Limited clinical trial availability compared to academic centers
- Distance from Jackson means complex cases may require travel for specialized care
- Fewer specialized cancer programs than comprehensive academic centers
- Some advanced treatments not available locally
- May need referral to UMMC or out-of-state centers for rare cancers
- Hurricane season considerations for coastal location
6. Merit Health Wesley Cancer Center (Hattiesburg, MS)
Merit Health Wesley Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer services to patients in the Pine Belt region of Mississippi, offering accessible care close to home.
Strengths
- Serves Pine Belt region with comprehensive cancer services
- Part of Merit Health system providing network support and resources
- Commission on Cancer accreditation ensuring quality care standards
- Multidisciplinary cancer care team approach
- Modern cancer treatment facilities and equipment
- Experienced oncology nursing and support staff
- Convenient Hattiesburg location accessible to regional patients
Specialties
- Breast cancer comprehensive care from screening through treatment
- Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment programs
- Prostate cancer with multiple treatment options
- Medical oncology including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies
- Radiation oncology with advanced techniques
- Surgical oncology services
- Infusion therapy in comfortable outpatient setting
Patient Support Areas
- Counseling services for emotional support
- Nutritional counseling and dietary support
- Financial assistance and counseling programs
- Social work services addressing patient needs
- Support groups for patients and families
- Patient education and resources
- Care coordination assistance
Things to Consider
- Clinical trial access limited compared to academic medical centers
- Complex or rare cancers may require referral to larger centers
- Fewer specialized oncology programs than comprehensive centers
- Some advanced treatments may require travel to Jackson or elsewhere
- Subspecialty expertise more limited than academic centers
- Wait times for certain specialists may vary
7. North Mississippi Medical Center Cancer Care (Tupelo, MS)
North Mississippi Medical Center Cancer Care provides comprehensive cancer services to patients in North Mississippi, serving as the region's primary cancer treatment facility.
Strengths
- Largest cancer center serving North Mississippi region
- Part of North Mississippi Health Services, a major regional healthcare system
- Commission on Cancer accredited program
- Comprehensive cancer services close to home for northern Mississippi residents
- Multidisciplinary cancer care teams
- Modern facilities and treatment equipment
- Strong community ties and patient-centered approach
Specialties
- Breast cancer comprehensive program including screening and treatment
- Lung cancer medical and radiation oncology services
- Colorectal cancer surgical and medical management
- Medical oncology with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies
- Radiation oncology with advanced treatment techniques
- Surgical oncology for various cancer types
- Infusion services in dedicated cancer center
Patient Support Areas
- Counseling services for patients and families
- Nutritional support and dietary counseling
- Financial counseling and assistance programs
- Social work services addressing practical needs
- Support groups throughout the region
- Patient navigation services
- Palliative care consultations available
Things to Consider
- Distance from Jackson limits access to UMMC's specialized programs
- Clinical trial availability more limited than academic centers
- Complex or rare cancers may require travel to comprehensive centers
- Some advanced treatments not available locally
- Subspecialty oncology expertise more limited than academic medical centers
- May need referral to UMMC or out-of-state facilities for certain treatments
8. Anderson Regional Cancer Center (Meridian, MS)
Anderson Regional Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer care to patients in East Central Mississippi and West Alabama, serving a bi-state region with quality oncology services.
Strengths
- Serves bi-state region including East Central Mississippi and West Alabama
- Comprehensive cancer services in convenient Meridian location
- Commission on Cancer accreditation
- Multidisciplinary cancer care approach
- Modern treatment facilities and equipment
- Experienced oncology team committed to personalized care
- Strategic location providing regional access
Specialties
- Breast cancer screening and comprehensive treatment
- Lung cancer diagnosis and management
- Prostate cancer treatment with multiple modalities
- Medical oncology including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies
- Radiation oncology with advanced techniques
- Surgical oncology services
- Infusion therapy services
Patient Support Areas
- Counseling services for emotional support
- Nutritional counseling during treatment
- Financial assistance and counseling programs
- Social work addressing patient and family needs
- Support groups for patients and caregivers
- Patient education resources
- Care coordination services
Things to Consider
- Clinical trial access limited compared to academic centers
- Complex cancers may require referral to UMMC or Alabama comprehensive centers
- Fewer specialized programs than larger cancer centers
- Some advanced treatments may require travel
- Subspecialty expertise more limited than academic medical centers
- Distance from major medical centers in Jackson or Birmingham
9. Rush Foundation Hospital Cancer Care Center (Meridian, MS)
Rush Foundation Hospital Cancer Care Center provides comprehensive cancer services to the Meridian community and surrounding areas, offering personalized care in a community hospital setting.
Strengths
- Community hospital setting with personalized care approach
- Convenient Meridian location serving East Central Mississippi
- Comprehensive cancer services including medical and radiation oncology
- Commission on Cancer accreditation
- Multidisciplinary care team coordination
- Close-knit care environment with personal attention
- Accessible for Meridian area residents
Specialties
- Breast cancer diagnosis and treatment
- Lung cancer medical and radiation oncology
- Colorectal cancer management
- Medical oncology with chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy
- Radiation oncology including IMRT and external beam radiation
- Surgical oncology consultations and procedures
- Supportive care and palliative services
Patient Support Areas
- Palliative care integrated with cancer treatment
- Nutritional counseling and support
- Support groups for patients and families
- Social work services
- Financial counseling assistance
- Patient education programs
- Spiritual care services
Things to Consider
- Smaller program than UMMC with fewer subspecialties
- Limited clinical trial access compared to academic centers
- Complex or rare cancers may require referral to larger centers
- Some advanced treatments not available on-site
- Subspecialty expertise more limited than comprehensive centers
- May need to travel to Jackson or out of state for certain specialized treatments
10. Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center (SMRMC) Cancer Center (McComb, MS)
SMRMC Cancer Center provides vital cancer care services to Southwest Mississippi, ensuring rural communities have access to comprehensive oncology care close to home.
Strengths
- Critical resource for Southwest Mississippi rural communities
- Comprehensive cancer services reducing travel burden for local residents
- Commission on Cancer accreditation
- Multidisciplinary cancer care team
- Commitment to serving rural populations with limited healthcare access
- Personalized care in community hospital setting
- Convenient location for Southwest Mississippi and nearby Louisiana
Specialties
- Breast cancer screening and treatment programs
- Lung cancer medical and radiation oncology
- Prostate cancer treatment options
- Medical oncology including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies
- Radiation oncology with modern equipment
- Surgical oncology services
- Infusion therapy in comfortable setting
Patient Support Areas
- Counseling services for patients and families
- Nutritional support during treatment
- Financial assistance and counseling
- Social work services addressing patient needs
- Support groups connecting rural communities
- Patient education and resources
- Care coordination assistance
Things to Consider
- Rural location means limited access to subspecialty expertise
- Clinical trial access very limited compared to academic centers
- Complex or rare cancers will likely require referral to UMMC or out-of-state centers
- Some advanced treatments not available locally
- Distance from Jackson means travel required for specialized care
- Subspecialty oncology services more limited than urban centers
When choosing a cancer center in Mississippi, consider your cancer type and complexity. For common cancers (breast, lung, prostate, colorectal), regional centers provide excellent care closer to home. For complex, rare, or advanced cancers, UMMC's academic medical center offers specialized expertise and clinical trials not available elsewhere in the state. Don't hesitate to seek care at multiple facilities or get second opinions.
Moving Forward: Finding the Right Fit
Choosing a cancer treatment center is a deeply personal decision that should balance medical expertise, convenience, and personal comfort. Consider these key factors when making your choice:
- Cancer Type Expertise: Does the center have experience treating your specific cancer? For common cancers, regional centers offer excellent care. For rare or complex cancers, UMMC's specialized expertise may be valuable.
- Clinical Trials: If you're interested in cutting-edge treatments, UMMC offers the most extensive clinical trial portfolio in Mississippi. Ask your oncologist about available trials for your cancer type.
- Location: Balance travel burden against specialized expertise needs. Many Mississippi residents receive excellent care at regional centers close to home.
- Support Services: Comprehensive support improves quality of life during treatment. Look for centers offering counseling, nutrition, financial assistance, and palliative care.
- Insurance: Verify coverage before committing to a center. Most Mississippi hospitals accept major insurance plans and Medicaid, but confirm specifics.
- Personal Comfort: You should feel confident in your medical team and comfortable with the care environment. Trust your instincts.
We understand that this is a challenging time, and we are here to support you. We offer a range of resources and tools to help you navigate your cancer journey, including personalized treatment guides, financial assistance resources, grants directory, and comprehensive guides for newly diagnosed patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes UMMC Cancer Center different from other Mississippi cancer centers?
A: UMMC is Mississippi's only academic medical center, meaning it combines clinical cancer care with active research programs and medical education. This provides access to extensive clinical trials, specialized expertise in rare and complex cancers, and cutting-edge treatments not available at community hospitals. UMMC has over 50 cancer specialists and is the state's referral center for complex cases.
Q: How do I choose between cancer centers in different parts of Mississippi?
A: Consider your specific cancer type, stage, and complexity first. For common cancers like breast, lung, prostate, or colorectal cancer, regional centers near your home often provide excellent care with less travel burden. For rare, complex, or advanced cancers, UMMC's specialized programs may be worth the travel to Jackson. Also consider insurance acceptance, clinical trial availability, and which center makes you feel most comfortable and supported.
Q: Will my insurance cover treatment at these Mississippi cancer centers?
A: Most Mississippi insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, are accepted at these centers, but coverage varies by facility and specific services. Contact the cancer center's financial counseling department before your first appointment to verify your insurance coverage, understand any out-of-pocket costs, and learn about financial assistance programs. Many centers have financial counselors who can help you navigate insurance issues.
Q: Can I participate in clinical trials in Mississippi?
A: Yes, particularly at UMMC Cancer Center, which has the most extensive clinical trial portfolio in Mississippi with access to hundreds of studies. Some community hospitals also participate in cooperative group trials through networks like NCORP (NCI Community Oncology Research Program). Clinical trials can provide access to new treatments before they're widely available. Ask your oncologist specifically about trials appropriate for your cancer type and stage.
Q: What if I live in rural Mississippi far from these cancer centers?
A: Many Mississippi cancer centers have partnerships with local hospitals for certain treatments like chemotherapy infusions, reducing travel frequency. Some offer telemedicine consultations for follow-up appointments. Transportation assistance programs may be available through the cancer center, American Cancer Society, or local organizations. Contact the cancer center's social work or patient navigation department to discuss options for minimizing travel burden while receiving quality care.
Q: How important is palliative care during cancer treatment in Mississippi?
A: Very important. Palliative care focuses on managing symptoms, pain, and stress regardless of cancer stage or treatment intent. Research shows that early integration of palliative care improves quality of life and can even extend survival in some cases. All cancer centers on this list offer some level of palliative care, though the comprehensiveness varies. Don't confuse palliative care with hospice—palliative care can be provided alongside curative treatment at any stage.
Q: What supportive services should I expect from a Mississippi cancer center?
A: Comprehensive cancer centers should offer pain management, nutritional counseling, mental health support, social work services, financial counseling, palliative care, support groups, and patient navigation to coordinate your care. UMMC offers the most extensive support services as the academic medical center. Community hospitals provide core services but may have fewer specialized programs. Ask specifically about available support services when evaluating centers.
Q: Are there financial assistance programs for Mississippi cancer patients?
A: Yes, multiple programs exist. Start with your cancer center's financial counseling department—many hospitals have charity care programs and payment plans. Mississippi Medicaid may cover treatment if you qualify. National organizations like the American Cancer Society, CancerCare, and disease-specific foundations offer assistance. Visit our financial resources page and grants directory for comprehensive information on funding options specific to Mississippi patients.
Q: Should I get a second opinion before starting cancer treatment?
A: Absolutely. Second opinions are encouraged and are standard practice in cancer care. They can confirm your diagnosis, present alternative treatment options, and provide confidence in your treatment plan. Most oncologists support and even recommend second opinions for complex cases. Consider getting a second opinion from UMMC if you're being treated at a community hospital, or vice versa for different perspectives. Many insurance plans cover second opinion consultations.
Q: How quickly should I start cancer treatment after diagnosis in Mississippi?
A: Timing varies significantly by cancer type and stage. While cancer treatment is urgent, it's rarely an absolute emergency. Taking 1-2 weeks to get a second opinion, research your options, and choose the right treatment center typically won't affect outcomes for most cancers. However, some aggressive cancers require faster action. Discuss the specific timeline with your oncologist and ask directly how urgent treatment is for your particular situation. Don't let urgency pressure you into decisions you're not comfortable with, but also don't delay unnecessarily.
Taking the Next Step
Navigating cancer treatment can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Beyond choosing the right treatment center, consider exploring resources for paying for cancer treatment and connecting with others who understand your journey through our comprehensive guide for newly diagnosed patients.
Sign up with Olive to access personalized resources and support tailored to your unique situation. We can help you understand your treatment options, navigate insurance and financial assistance, compare Mississippi cancer centers, and connect with a community of support. You are not alone in this journey.