Top 10 Cancer Treatment Centers in Pennsylvania
Navigating a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially when facing a terminal illness. Knowing you have access to the best possible care is crucial. In Pennsylvania, numerous cancer centers offer advanced treatments, cutting-edge research, and compassionate support. This list highlights ten of the top cancer treatment centers in Pennsylvania, offering hope and comprehensive care to those facing challenging diagnoses. We understand the urgency and emotional weight of this search, and we aim to provide you with valuable information to make informed decisions.
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 | NCI Status | Top Specialties | Clinical Trials | Network | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abramson Cancer Center (Philadelphia) | ✓ Comprehensive | Immunotherapy, Proton Therapy, CAR T-cell | Extensive (400+) | Single Location | Complex/Rare Cancers |
| UPMC Hillman Cancer Center (Pittsburgh) | ✓ Comprehensive | Brain Tumors, Melanoma, Immunology | Extensive | 70+ Locations | Regional Network Care |
| Fox Chase Cancer Center (Philadelphia) | ✓ Comprehensive | Breast, Genitourinary, Prevention | Extensive (200+) | Single Location | Cancer Prevention Focus |
| Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center (Philadelphia) | ✓ Designated | Breast, Prostate, Personalized Medicine | Available | Single Location | Personalized Treatment |
| Penn State Cancer Institute (Hershey) | ✓ Designated | Breast, Lung, Colorectal | Available | Single Location | Central PA Access |
| Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute (Allentown) | — | Breast, Lung, Prostate | Limited | Multiple Locations | Lehigh Valley Region |
| Geisinger Cancer Institute (Danville) | — | Breast, Lung, Colorectal | Limited | Multiple Locations | Northeast PA Region |
| Allegheny Health Network (Western PA) | — | Breast, Lung, Prostate | Limited | Multiple Locations | Western PA Network |
| Einstein Cancer Center (Philadelphia) | — | Breast, Lung, Colorectal | Limited | Multiple Locations | Urban Philadelphia |
| St. Luke's Cancer Center (Eastern PA/NJ) | — | Breast, Lung, Prostate | Limited | Multiple Locations | Eastern PA/NJ Region |
Legend: ✓ Comprehensive = NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center (highest designation) | ✓ Designated = NCI-designated Cancer Center | — = Not NCI-designated
1. Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA)
The Abramson Cancer Center is one of only three NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in Pennsylvania, representing the highest level of cancer care in the United States.
Strengths
- NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center (1 of approximately 50 nationwide)
- Consistently ranked among top 10 cancer hospitals by U.S. News & World Report
- Over 400 active clinical trials offering access to cutting-edge treatments not yet widely available
- Houses the Roberts Proton Therapy Center, one of the most advanced in the nation
- Pioneer in CAR T-cell immunotherapy with dedicated cellular therapy program
- Multidisciplinary tumor boards meet weekly to review complex cases
Specialties
- Hematologic malignancies (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma) with dedicated bone marrow transplant unit
- Breast cancer center with genetics program and high-risk screening
- Thoracic oncology program for lung and esophageal cancers
- Precision medicine utilizing comprehensive genomic profiling
- Immunotherapy and cellular therapy programs
- Pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancer programs
Patient Support Areas
- Comprehensive psychosocial oncology services including individual counseling and support groups
- Financial counselors to help navigate insurance and identify assistance programs
- Integrative medicine services (acupuncture, massage therapy, meditation classes)
- Dedicated patient navigators assigned to each patient to coordinate complex care
- Nutritional counseling with registered oncology dietitians
- Palliative care team integrated from diagnosis through survivorship
- Spiritual care services available
Things to Consider
- High patient volume may result in 2-4 week wait for initial consultations
- Complex academic medical center environment can feel overwhelming for some patients
- Parking challenges in Philadelphia campus location (valet services available)
- Most advanced treatments (proton therapy, certain clinical trials) only available at main Philadelphia location
- May require multiple visits for second opinions and treatment planning
NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers meet the highest standards for cancer research and treatment. Only about 50 centers nationwide hold this prestigious designation, ensuring access to the latest clinical trials and innovative therapies.
2. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center (Pittsburgh, PA)
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center is Pennsylvania's largest integrated cancer network, providing NCI-designated comprehensive cancer care across 70+ locations.
Strengths
- NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center with extensive regional network
- One of the largest cancer research programs in the nation with over $120 million in annual funding
- Advanced imaging and radiation therapy technologies including Gamma Knife and CyberKnife
- Nationally recognized bone marrow transplantation program
- Strong focus on cancer immunology and immunotherapy development
- Network of 70+ locations throughout Pennsylvania and surrounding states
Specialties
- Brain tumor program with neurosurgery and Gamma Knife expertise
- Melanoma and skin cancer center with specialized surgical techniques
- Thoracic oncology including lung cancer screening program
- Gynecologic oncology with minimally invasive surgical options
- Gastrointestinal cancers with hepatobiliary surgery program
- Sarcoma center for rare cancers
Patient Support Areas
- Patient and family counseling services at multiple locations
- Cancer rehabilitation services (physical therapy, occupational therapy)
- Survivorship programs addressing long-term effects of treatment
- Financial assistance and insurance navigation support
- Support groups for patients and caregivers (in-person and virtual options)
- Nutritional services and wellness programs
- Pain management and palliative care specialists
Things to Consider
- Quality and availability of specialized services may vary across 70+ network locations
- Some patients report longer wait times at satellite locations compared to main Pittsburgh campus
- Coordination of care across multiple locations can sometimes be challenging
- Most complex treatments and clinical trials available at main UPMC Hillman facility in Pittsburgh
- Insurance acceptance varies by location within the network
3. Fox Chase Cancer Center (Philadelphia, PA)
Fox Chase is a dedicated cancer center, meaning 100% of its focus is on cancer research and treatment. It's Pennsylvania's first NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Strengths
- Exclusive focus on cancer ensures specialized expertise across all programs
- NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center since 1974
- Strong emphasis on cancer prevention and early detection programs
- Over 200 active clinical trials with high enrollment rates
- Advanced surgical techniques including robotic and minimally invasive options
- Nationally recognized for genetic counseling and risk assessment programs
Specialties
- Breast cancer program with comprehensive surgical reconstruction options
- Genitourinary cancers (prostate, bladder, kidney) with robotic surgery expertise
- Lung cancer screening and treatment programs
- Gastrointestinal malignancies including colorectal cancer
- Head and neck cancer program
- Genetic counseling for hereditary cancer syndromes (BRCA, Lynch syndrome)
Patient Support Areas
- Psychosocial support services including licensed social workers
- Financial counseling to assist with treatment costs and insurance
- Spiritual care services for patients and families
- Support groups for various cancer types and caregiver support
- Patient education library and resources
- Survivorship clinic addressing post-treatment needs
- Palliative care integration throughout treatment
Things to Consider
- Smaller facility compared to large university hospitals may limit some services
- Single main location in Philadelphia requires travel for patients outside the region
- Some specialized treatments may not be available (e.g., no proton therapy on-site)
- Fewer inpatient beds than larger medical centers (may affect immediate admission)
- Parking can be challenging in urban location
4. Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia, PA)
Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center is an NCI-designated Cancer Center known for personalized medicine approaches and comprehensive care.
Strengths
- NCI-designated Cancer Center with strong research programs
- Emphasis on personalized medicine using genetic and molecular profiling
- Kimmel Proton Therapy Center offering advanced radiation treatment
- Comprehensive breast cancer program with plastic surgery collaboration
- Active participation in national clinical trial networks
- Multidisciplinary disease management teams for coordinated care
Specialties
- Breast cancer with oncoplastic surgery and genetic testing
- Prostate cancer program with focal therapy and advanced imaging
- Lung cancer with thoracic surgery and interventional pulmonology
- Gastrointestinal cancers including hepatobiliary and pancreatic
- Hematologic malignancies and stem cell transplantation
- Head and neck cancer program
Patient Support Areas
- Cancer rehabilitation services (physical, occupational, speech therapy)
- Psychosocial oncology with counselors and support groups
- Nutrition counseling and cooking classes for cancer patients
- Pain management and palliative care services
- Financial counseling and assistance program navigation
- Integrative medicine including yoga and meditation
- Patient navigation services to coordinate appointments
Things to Consider
- As part of larger university hospital system, cancer center may feel less specialized than dedicated facilities
- Some services shared across Jefferson Health system may require coordination
- Urban Philadelphia location presents parking and navigation challenges
- Insurance and billing through larger Jefferson system can be complex
- Wait times for certain specialists can extend 3-4 weeks
5. Penn State Cancer Institute (Hershey, PA)
Penn State Cancer Institute serves central Pennsylvania as an NCI-designated Cancer Center, bringing advanced care to a predominantly rural region.
Strengths
- NCI-designated Cancer Center ensuring research and clinical trial access
- Serves large geographic region in central Pennsylvania with limited other options
- Comprehensive cancer services in one location
- Active clinical trial program through ECOG-ACRIN and other cooperative groups
- Multidisciplinary care model with weekly tumor boards
- Strong emphasis on patient-centered care and education
Specialties
- Breast cancer program with breast surgery and reconstruction services
- Lung cancer screening and treatment programs
- Colorectal and gastrointestinal cancer programs
- Gynecologic oncology services
- Hematologic malignancies treatment
- Radiation oncology with IMRT and other advanced techniques
Patient Support Areas
- Social work services addressing emotional and practical needs
- Financial counseling and assistance with treatment costs
- Support groups for patients and families
- Nutritional services and dietary counseling
- Palliative care consultations available
- Cancer resource center with educational materials
- Lodging assistance for patients traveling for treatment
Things to Consider
- Smaller program than Philadelphia comprehensive centers with fewer specialized sub-programs
- Limited availability of certain advanced technologies (no proton therapy)
- Fewer clinical trial options compared to NCI-designated comprehensive centers
- Rural location requires significant travel for many patients (though still closest option for region)
- Some rare or complex cancers may benefit from referral to larger comprehensive centers
- Specialist availability may be more limited than at larger centers
6. Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute (Allentown, PA)
Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute provides comprehensive community cancer care serving the Lehigh Valley region with multiple convenient locations.
Strengths
- American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer accredited
- Multiple locations throughout Lehigh Valley providing convenient access
- Participation in national clinical trials through research consortiums
- Advanced radiation therapy including TomoTherapy and stereotactic techniques
- Comprehensive breast center with same-day biopsy results
- Strong community ties with support programs
Specialties
- Breast cancer with comprehensive screening and treatment
- Lung cancer program with low-dose CT screening
- Prostate cancer treatment with advanced radiation options
- Colorectal cancer surgical and medical oncology
- Hematology and bone marrow disorders
- Gynecologic cancer services
Patient Support Areas
- Cancer support groups for various diagnoses
- Nutritional counseling services
- Social work and counseling services
- Financial counseling and assistance programs
- Pain management services
- Look Good Feel Better programs
- Cancer resource library
Things to Consider
- Not NCI-designated, so research focus and clinical trial access more limited than comprehensive centers
- Complex or rare cancers may require referral to NCI-designated centers in Philadelphia
- Fewer specialized cancer programs compared to academic centers
- Some advanced technologies not available (no proton therapy, limited immunotherapy trials)
- Academic partnerships provide some access to trials but not as extensive as NCI centers
7. Geisinger Cancer Institute (Danville, PA)
Geisinger Cancer Institute provides comprehensive cancer care across central and northeastern Pennsylvania through an integrated healthcare system.
Strengths
- Part of integrated Geisinger Health System allowing coordinated care
- Multiple locations across central and northeastern Pennsylvania
- Participation in national clinical trials through cooperative groups
- Advanced radiation therapy technologies
- Electronic health records integration improves care coordination
- Population health approach to cancer prevention and screening
Specialties
- Breast cancer program with navigation services
- Lung cancer with screening and treatment programs
- Colorectal cancer with advanced endoscopy
- Prostate cancer treatment options
- Hematologic malignancies and blood disorders
- Gynecologic cancer services
Patient Support Areas
- Care coordination through integrated health system
- Social services and counseling
- Support groups throughout the region
- Nutritional counseling services
- Financial counseling services
- Palliative care services
- Patient education programs
Things to Consider
- Not NCI-designated, limiting access to most cutting-edge research and trials
- Geographic coverage is excellent but means varying service levels at different locations
- Some advanced treatments require travel to main Danville campus
- Limited subspecialty oncology programs for rare cancers
- Rural location of main campus requires travel for many patients
- Fewer clinical trial options than academic medical centers
8. Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute (Multiple Locations)
Allegheny Health Network provides integrated cancer care across western Pennsylvania with multiple community-based locations.
Strengths
- Extensive network of cancer centers throughout western Pennsylvania
- Partnership with Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center for complex cases
- Multiple convenient locations reducing travel burden
- Advanced radiation therapy at multiple sites
- Breast health centers with same-day diagnostic services
- Multidisciplinary care teams
Specialties
- Breast cancer comprehensive services
- Lung cancer program
- Prostate cancer treatment
- Colorectal cancer
- Gynecologic oncology
- Hematology services
Patient Support Areas
- Patient navigation services
- Support groups at multiple locations
- Social work services
- Nutritional counseling
- Financial assistance navigation
- Palliative care consultations
- Wellness programs
Things to Consider
- Not NCI-designated as an institution, limiting research intensity
- Service quality and availability varies significantly across network locations
- Most complex cases require referral to main centers or Johns Hopkins
- Clinical trial availability limited compared to NCI centers
- Coordination across network locations can sometimes be challenging
- Insurance acceptance varies by location within network
9. Einstein Cancer Center (Philadelphia, PA)
Einstein Cancer Center, part of Einstein Healthcare Network, provides comprehensive community cancer care with focus on serving diverse urban communities.
Strengths
- Commitment to serving diverse and underserved communities
- Multiple locations in Philadelphia region
- Participation in cooperative group clinical trials
- Comprehensive breast health center
- Advanced radiation therapy capabilities
- Culturally sensitive care programs
Specialties
- Breast cancer screening and treatment
- Lung cancer program
- Colorectal cancer services
- Hematology and blood disorders
- Prostate cancer treatment
- Gynecologic cancers
Patient Support Areas
- Social work and counseling services
- Support groups
- Nutritional counseling
- Financial assistance programs
- Patient navigation
- Language services for non-English speakers
- Transportation assistance programs
Things to Consider
- Not NCI-designated, limiting cutting-edge research access
- Fewer specialized cancer programs than academic comprehensive centers
- Limited clinical trial portfolio compared to NCI centers
- Some advanced technologies not available
- Complex or rare cancers may require referral to comprehensive centers
- Community hospital setting may have fewer resources than academic centers
10. St. Luke's Cancer Center (Multiple Locations)
St. Luke's provides regional cancer care across eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey through a network of community-based centers.
Strengths
- Multiple convenient locations throughout eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey
- American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer accredited
- Participation in national clinical trial networks
- Advanced radiation therapy at multiple sites
- Comprehensive breast health services
- Regional reputation for quality community care
Specialties
- Breast cancer comprehensive program
- Lung cancer screening and treatment
- Prostate cancer services
- Colorectal cancer program
- Gynecologic cancer treatment
- Hematology services
Patient Support Areas
- Cancer support groups
- Nutritional counseling
- Social services and counseling
- Financial assistance navigation
- Patient education programs
- Look Good Feel Better programs
- Palliative care services
Things to Consider
- Not NCI-designated, limiting access to most innovative research
- Network model means service levels vary across locations
- Fewer clinical trials than academic comprehensive centers
- Complex or rare cancers may require referral to NCI-designated centers
- Some advanced treatments not available at all locations
- Subspecialty oncology expertise more limited than academic centers
When choosing a cancer treatment center, prioritize centers with specific expertise in your cancer type. NCI-designated comprehensive centers (Abramson, UPMC Hillman, Fox Chase, Sidney Kimmel) offer the most clinical trial options and cutting-edge treatments. Community centers provide excellent care for common cancers with greater convenience. Don't hesitate to seek second opinions or consult multiple centers.
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:
- Cancer Type Expertise: Does the center specialize in your specific cancer?
- NCI Designation: For complex or rare cancers, NCI-designated centers offer more options
- Clinical Trials: Access to trials can provide cutting-edge treatment options
- Location: Balance travel burden against specialized expertise needs
- Support Services: Comprehensive support improves quality of life during treatment
- Insurance: Verify coverage before committing to a center
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 plan guides, financial assistance resources, support group directories, and doctor discussion guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center mean?
A: NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers meet the highest standards set by the National Cancer Institute for cancer research, treatment, and prevention. Only about 50 centers nationwide hold this designation, ensuring patients have access to the latest clinical trials, innovative therapies, and multidisciplinary care teams. In Pennsylvania, Abramson, UPMC Hillman, and Fox Chase hold this designation.
Q: How do I choose between multiple top cancer centers in Pennsylvania?
A: Consider your specific cancer type and which centers specialize in it, the location and travel distance from your home, whether they accept your insurance, the availability of clinical trials you may qualify for, and the range of supportive care services offered. Schedule consultations at multiple centers to compare your options and see where you feel most comfortable.
Q: Will my insurance cover treatment at these cancer centers?
A: Most major insurance plans are accepted at these centers, but coverage varies. Contact the cancer center's financial counseling department before your first visit to verify your insurance coverage and understand any out-of-pocket costs you may face. Ask specifically about coverage for clinical trials if you're interested in participating.
Q: What are clinical trials and should I consider participating?
A: Clinical trials are research studies that test new treatments or new ways of using existing treatments. Participating in a clinical trial can give you access to cutting-edge therapies before they're widely available. Your oncologist can help you determine if you're eligible for any trials and whether participation might benefit you. NCI-designated centers typically offer the most trial options.
Q: Can I get a second opinion at another Pennsylvania cancer center?
A: Absolutely. Second opinions are encouraged and are a standard part of cancer care. Most centers welcome second opinion consultations and can review your case independently. Your current doctors should support this decision. Many patients get opinions from both NCI-designated comprehensive centers and community centers to compare options.
Q: How far should I be willing to travel for cancer treatment?
A: This depends on your specific situation. For rare cancers, complex cases, or when seeking clinical trial access, traveling to an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center (Abramson, UPMC Hillman, Fox Chase) may be worthwhile. For more common cancers, quality community centers closer to home may provide excellent care while reducing travel stress. Discuss this with your oncologist.
Q: What supportive care services should I look for?
A: Look for centers offering pain management, nutritional counseling, mental health support, financial counseling, palliative care, support groups, and patient navigation services. Comprehensive supportive care significantly improves quality of life during treatment. All centers on this list offer basic support services, but NCI-designated centers typically offer more extensive programs.
Q: Are there financial assistance programs available for cancer treatment?
A: Yes, many cancer centers have financial counseling services and can connect you with assistance programs. Additionally, explore our financial resources page and grants directory for comprehensive information on funding options. Ask the cancer center's financial counselor about payment plans, charity care, and assistance programs specific to your situation.
Q: What questions should I ask during my first visit to a cancer center?
A: Ask about their experience treating your specific cancer type (how many cases annually), what treatment options they recommend and why, their clinical trial options, expected side effects and how they're managed, the care team you'll work with, what support services are available, and typical wait times for appointments and treatments.
Q: How do I know if a cancer center is right for me?
A: You should feel confident in the medical team's expertise with your specific cancer type, comfortable communicating with your doctors, supported by the staff and services, informed about your treatment options, and confident that the center has the resources and experience for your case. Trust your instincts—if something doesn't feel right, it's okay to seek care elsewhere.
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.
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 cancer centers, and connect with a community of support. You are not alone in this journey.