The required percentage of patients enrolled in clinical trials each year is based on what criterion?

The required percentage of patients enrolled in clinical trials each year is determined by the facility's cancer program category. This criterion is significant because the Commission on Cancer (CoC) establishes specific standards for various types of cancer programs based on their classification. Facilities classified as academic or research-focused have different expectations regarding clinical trial enrollment compared to community cancer programs.

This standardization ensures that high-quality cancer care is accessible and that patients have opportunities to participate in innovative treatment options. By aligning the enrollment requirements with the facility's capabilities and resources, the CoC promotes a tailored approach to cancer treatment while encouraging participation in clinical research, which ultimately benefits patient care and advances cancer research.

Understanding the facility's cancer program category is essential for compliance with CoC standards, as it directly affects how many patients should ideally be enrolled in clinical trials based on the specific goals and capacities of the program.