EUnetCCC.

Abstract

e13617 Background: Cancer is the second leading cause of death in Europe and the primary cause of mortality among individuals under 65 years of age. Despite major advances in oncology, substantial disparities persist across European countries in access to high-quality cancer care, early diagnosis, innovative treatments, and clinical research. Addressing these inequities requires system-level models of care that integrate clinical excellence, research, education, and sustainability. In response, the European Commission launched Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, under which the European Network of Comprehensive Cancer Centres (EUnetCCC) was established to transform cancer care delivery across Europe. Methods: EUnetCCC is a Joint Action funded by the EU4Health Programme, coordinated by the French National Cancer Institute, involving all 27 European Union Member States and four associated countries. The initiative is structured into nine Work Packages addressing governance, certification, sustainability, quality improvement, research integration, and the implementation of Comprehensive Cancer Networks. A standardized certification framework for Comprehensive Cancer Centres (CCCs) was developed to promote harmonized quality standards, multidisciplinary care, integration of research and clinical practice, and cross-border collaboration. Results: EUnetCCC currently includes 163 partner institutions from 31 countries and aims to ensure that by 2028, at least 90% of eligible cancer patients in Europe will have access to high-quality comprehensive cancer care through a network of at least 100 certified CCCs, with at least one CCC in each Member State. The model facilitates equitable access to quality-assured diagnostics, innovative therapies, clinical trials, and professional training, while strengthening capacity in less-resourced regions. Cross-border collaboration within the network supports patient mobility, shared expertise, and improved care delivery for complex cancer cases. Conclusions: EUnetCCC represents a scalable, system-level model for cancer care delivery that integrates quality, equity, and innovation across diverse healthcare systems. By harmonizing standards and embedding research into routine care, EUnetCCC addresses structural disparities and provides a transferable framework for improving quality and outcomes in cancer care globally.