Houston, June 1, 2009—Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada and Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital/North Star Lodge Cancer Center in Washington, both affiliated with the US Oncology, Inc. network, received Clinical Trial Participation Awards at the 45th American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting in Orlando. The practices were among only eight to receive the award.

This is the sixth consecutive year that practices affiliated with US Oncology have been recognized for their contributions to cancer research. Since the initiation of the award in 2003, 14 US Oncology affiliated practices have won the award from ASCO.

Award winners were selected based on a number of factors including patient accrual to clinical trials over a three-year period. Special consideration was given to practices that increased clinical trials participation among under-represented and minority populations, as well as practices that used innovative techniques to overcome barriers to enrolling patients in clinical trials.

“We are delighted that these two practices have been recognized for their significant contributions to cancer research,” said Stephen Smith, vice president and general manager of research for US Oncology.  “The awards reflect the quality of their research efforts and embody our research mission of providing increased access to advanced treatment opportunities for patients in the community setting.”
 
The Las Vegas practice of Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada (CCCN) has eight facilities across the greater Las Vegas Valley and offers patients easy access to new concepts, techniques and therapies in cancer care.

CCCN is comprised of 18 medical oncologists, five radiation oncologists and two pediatric oncologists specially trained and board certified in medical oncology, hematology, pediatric oncology and radiation oncology. CCCN is the only oncology practice in Nevada accredited by the American College of Radiology.

The Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital/North Star Lodge Cancer Center, a leading regional cancer care center, provides complete outpatient oncology care, including a full complement of radiation therapy, medical oncology, chemotherapy and infusion care, in addition to imaging, laboratory and other diagnostic services. It offers an on-site pharmacy, as well as physical therapy and psychosocial services, including counseling, consultative and education services.

About US Oncology Research
With experienced investigators and dedicated research nurses, US Oncology Research represents the largest research network specializing in Phase I-IV oncology clinical trials in the United States. US Oncology Research serves more than 80 sites in 200 locations with over 70 open trials being managed at any given time.
 
Additionally, the research network has accrued over 38,500 patients since its inception and contributed to the development of 36 of the latest cancer-fighting drugs approved by the FDA.  For more information, visit the US Oncology Research section under About US Oncology on the company's Web site, www.usoncology.com.

About US Oncology, Inc.
US Oncology, headquartered in the Houston area, works closely with physicians, payers, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical equipment manufacturers to identify and deliver innovative services that enhance patient access to advanced cancer care.

US Oncology uses its expertise to support every aspect of the cancer care delivery system—from drug development to distribution and outcomes measurement—enabling the company to help increase the efficiency and safety of cancer care. As of the company’s last quarterly earnings report, US Oncology is affiliated with 1,227 physicians operating in 468 locations, including 95 radiation oncology facilities in 39 states. For more information, visit the company’s Web site, www.usoncology.com.

Media Contact:
Jennifer Horspool
(281) 863-6739
Jennifer.Horspool@usoncology.com

Lisa Henderson
(813) 775-6208
Lisa.Henderson@hillandknowlton.com

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