Alabama Ranks 24th in Ovarian Cancer Provision

A new report from Ovarian Cancer: A Call For State Action ranked Alabama 24th in the nation based on four categories affecting women with ovarian cancer. These categories include access to care, education, quality of life and research support.

California was ranked first, while Iowa, Kentucky and Maine were ranked 24th, along with Alabama. Susan Greene, executive director of the Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation, cited the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center as a contributor to the top-notch research and care in the state.

Alabama received high marks for its legislative efforts to provide women with direct access to gynecologists and its provision for end-of-life and hospice programs. Greene said the state also offers many support groups for those with gynecological cancers. The Cancer Center always strives to inform its patients of these support groups.

The report indicated Alabama lacked laws addressing caps on co-payments, standing referrals to specialists and second opinions. The report did not include treatment outcomes, quality of care or the type of care given to cancer patients.

We are proud to be the only comprehensive cancer center in the state of Alabama, but also realize the great responsibility that accompanies this. Our scientists and physicians are working everyday to provide cutting-edge research that will make Alabama the best place for ovarian cancer provision.

-Ed Partridge, M.D.