Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center: A Global Leader in Cancer Care, Research, and Innovation

Buffalo, NY — May 13, 2026 — For over a century, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center has stood as a beacon of hope for patients worldwide, offering unparalleled expertise in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and research. As one of the first three NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the U.S., established in 1972, the institution has evolved from its founding in 1898 as the world’s first cancer-focused research center into a modern powerhouse of medical innovation. Today, Roswell Park accepts patients with any suspicion or confirmed diagnosis of cancer or related diseases, providing a streamlined pathway to definitive answers and cutting-edge care.

Why Roswell Park Stands Apart in Cancer Care

Roswell Park’s mission extends beyond treatment—it is rooted in prevention, education, and research, ensuring that every patient receives a personalized approach tailored to their unique needs. Whether navigating an undiagnosed suspicion of cancer or seeking advanced therapeutic options, the center’s multidisciplinary teams collaborate to deliver:

• Rapid, accurate diagnostics: Specialized clinics for patients with ambiguous test results, such as the Undiagnosed Cancer Clinic, where experts in radiology, pathology, and interventional medicine work together to determine next steps—including biopsies when necessary.
• Comprehensive treatment plans: Access to clinical trials (with up to 50% of patients eligible) and multidisciplinary tumor boards to refine care strategies.
• Global reach: Support for international patients through the International Medical Concierge, ensuring seamless coordination for those traveling from abroad.
• Second opinions: A dedicated referral system for patients seeking expert validation of their diagnosis or treatment plan.

Key Statistic: Roswell Park’s NCI designation reflects its commitment to translating research into life-saving therapies, with breakthroughs in immunotherapy, precision medicine, and early detection.

When Tests Are Ambiguous: The Undiagnosed Cancer Clinic

One of Roswell Park’s most critical services is its Undiagnosed Cancer Clinic, designed for patients who have suspicious but inconclusive findings, such as:

• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Liver, lung, or bone lesions
• Elevated tumor markers
• Ambiguous imaging (CT, MRI, ultrasound, or X-ray)

The clinic’s approach is holistic and expeditious:

“Cancer is complex, and the diagnosis—or ruling it out—requires expertise from specialists who focus on cancer every day. Whether it’s cancer or not, you need to know right away.”

Patients benefit from:

• Collaborative reviews: A team of radiologists, pathologists, and oncologists evaluates all prior imaging and medical history to identify gaps or missed opportunities.
• Targeted testing: Additional blood work or biopsies are arranged only when necessary, avoiding unnecessary procedures.
• Clear next steps: Patients leave with a definitive plan—whether for treatment, watchful waiting, or further diagnostic work.

Vital Note: Roswell Park does not initiate treatment without a confirmed diagnosis, ensuring patients receive evidence-based care from the outset.

How to Access Roswell Park’s Expertise

Roswell Park welcomes patients through multiple pathways:

1. Physician Referrals

Doctors can refer patients via:

• The RPMD mobile app (for real-time access to specialists).
• Phone: 716-845-RPMD (716-845-7763) (Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–5:00 PM ET).
• Email inquiries through the referral portal.

2. Self-Referrals

Patients can directly contact Roswell Park for consultations, second opinions, or clinical trial eligibility assessments.

3. International Patients

The International Medical Concierge assists non-U.S. Patients with:

• Visa and travel coordination.
• Hospital accommodation arrangements.
• Follow-up care planning.

Contact: 716-845-RPMD (716-845-7763) (Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM ET).

4. Clinical Trials

Up to 50% of Roswell Park patients participate in clinical trials, gaining access to:

• Emerging therapies not yet widely available.
• Cutting-edge diagnostics and preventive strategies.
• Contributions to medical research that may benefit future patients.

Inquiries: 1-800-ROSWELL (1-800-767-9355).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Roswell Park treat patients without a confirmed cancer diagnosis?

No. Roswell Park adheres to a diagnosis-first policy, ensuring all treatment plans are based on definitive evidence. The Undiagnosed Cancer Clinic helps clarify ambiguous results before treatment begins.

2. Are there costs associated with second opinions?

Roswell Park offers second opinions at a nominal fee, which may be covered by insurance or flexible spending accounts. Financial counselors are available to discuss options.

3. How does Roswell Park ensure cutting-edge care?

The center’s NCI designation requires participation in national clinical trials and adherence to rigorous research standards. Roswell Park:

• Employs specialists in niche areas (e.g., rare cancers, pediatric oncology).
• Collaborates with global research networks (e.g., NCI, EORTC).
• Invests over $500 million annually in cancer research.

4. Can I participate in a clinical trial without a referral?

Yes. Patients can contact Roswell Park directly to inquire about eligibility. The Cancer Information Service (1-800-ROSWELL) screens callers for potential trial matches.

Innovation on the Horizon

Roswell Park is at the forefront of several transformative initiatives:

• Early detection: Development of liquid biopsy tests to identify cancer before symptoms appear.
• Immunotherapy advancements: Personalized vaccine therapies targeting individual tumor mutations.
• AI integration: Machine learning algorithms to analyze imaging and genetic data for faster, more accurate diagnoses.
• Global partnerships: Collaborations with institutions in Europe and Asia to accelerate precision medicine breakthroughs.

As cancer care continues to evolve, Roswell Park remains committed to its founding principle: “To conquer cancer through research, education, and patient-centered care.” For those navigating uncertainty or seeking the highest standard of treatment, the center’s resources offer a clear path forward.

Next Steps

If you or a loved one are facing a cancer suspicion or diagnosis, take action today:

• Schedule a consultation: Refer a Patient.
• Explore clinical trials: Call 1-800-ROSWELL (1-800-767-9355).
• Access the Undiagnosed Cancer Clinic: Learn More.

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center: Where Science Meets Compassion.