About Hollings

Our mission at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center is straightforward: to eradicate cancer.

As one of only 72 National Cancer Institute-designated cancer centers in the nation and the largest academic-based cancer research program in South Carolina, Hollings’ mission is to reduce the cancer burden in South Carolina and nationally through innovative research, exceptional education and training, multidisciplinary patient care, statewide cancer prevention programs, and progressive public policy transformation.

We aim to find cures and improve the quality of life for those living with cancer.

Groundbreaking Research

At Hollings, over 140 specialists across more than 20 academic departments join forces to study and treat cancer from diverse perspectives. Our three research programs — cancer biology & immunology, cancer prevention & control, and developmental cancer therapeutics — create new and better methods for preventing and treating this complex disease.

With an annual research funding portfolio of more than $50 million and more than 200 clinical trials, Hollings focuses on getting this research to where it matters most: in clinics for the benefit of cancer patients.

Advanced Treatment

Hollings offers clinical expertise and advanced technology that’s only available at the nation’s best hospitals. MUSC Health University Medical Center is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a high performing hospital for cancer care. In 2019, Hollings offered the first CAR-T therapy in the state, and we offer the only combined adult and pediatric blood and marrow transplant program accredited by the Foundation for Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT).

A Team Approach

Our team of renowned physicians, scientists and sub-specialists collaborate to treat every type of cancer. Our multidisciplinary clinics include surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation therapists, radiologists, pathologists, psychologists, and other specialists equipped for the full range of cancer care.

In addition, we have virtual tumor boards that provide specialty consultation remotely to providers across the state to find the best care for patients. The multidisciplinary cancer teams at Hollings Cancer Center work to develop customized treatment plans that address factors unique to each patient's diagnosis and medical history.

Personalized Care

Our Navigation Program offers personal assistance from highly trained professionals who specialize in your cancer type. Your navigation team provides personalized care coordination, connects you with support resources, helps prevent treatment delays, communicates with physicians and other members of your health care team, and helps you understand your treatment options.

Inclusive Excellence

At Hollings, we believe that our diversity makes us stronger. We each see the world through our own experiences. We ask different questions. We propose different solutions. And together, these different ideas and experiences coalesce into an interdisciplinary, team approach to tackling the problem of cancer.

The Office of Programs to Enhance Diversity leads our efforts to build a diverse workforce in all areas, and our educational outreach efforts begin at the high school level and continue through faculty recruitment. We work to foster an inclusive environment where everyone’s contribution is valued.

Hollings associate director of population science and community outreach and engagement Marvella Ford, Ph.D., was recognized by Modern Healthcare as a Top 25 Diversity Leader in Healthcare for 2023. This recognition places Dr. Ford in an elite group of leaders who are implementing strategies and practices to promote diversity, equity and inclusion and truly impacting the communities they serve.

Expanding excellent cancer care across the state

Hollings is dedicated to developing epidemiologic, environmental, and behavioral research to reduce the cancer burden and disparities in South Carolina, with a focus on underserved and rural areas.

The National Cancer Institute Minority/Underserved Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP-MU) at MUSC is one of only 14 NCORP sites in the country devoted to serving minority and underserved populations. Additionally, our Community Outreach and Engagement Office offers education, prevention, and screening programs such as our Hollings Mobile Health Unit, which provides services across the state.

Hollings Cancer Network

The Hollings Cancer Network was established to create a statewide community cancer network with key partners across the state in order to deliver high quality services to all patients in South Carolina where they live.

We believe the best care is local care, while also ensuring that patients and physicians have seamless connectivity to the specialized expertise that is only available at an NCI-designated cancer center like Hollings. We are collaborating with MUSC Health’s regional hospital network, local hospitals and community physician groups to extend clinical, research and education services throughout the state. 

The map below shows the current locations where cancer care is offered or research is conducted. We continue to work on adding more partners so that more people can receive the cancer care they need close to home.

Nationally Known

• NCI-designated: As the only National Cancer Institute-designed cancer center in South Carolina, Hollings is part of an elite network of 72 designated centers across the nation that are collaborating to accelerate scientific discoveries and offer cancer patients more and better treatment options. Learn more about NCI designation.
  
• Magnet Recognition: MUSC has been awarded with Magnet Recognition^®, an acknowledgment of quality patient care, nursing excellence, and innovations in professional nursing practice.

More Than Treatment

At Hollings, we recognize that a diagnosis of cancer impacts every aspect of life. Taking a whole-person approach to care, we offer physical, emotional, and financial support for patients and families that extends beyond medications and therapies.

From art classes to nutrition and chaplain services, we’re here to provide the resources you need to best navigate your cancer journey. View all of our patient and family resources.