NCCS’ mission is to advocate for quality cancer care for all people touched by cancer. Founded by and for cancer survivors, NCCS created the widely accepted definition of survivorship and defines someone as a cancer survivor from the time of diagnosis and for the balance of life. NCCS has worked with legislators and policy makers to represent cancer patients and survivors in efforts to improve their quality of care and quality of life after diagnosis. Our unique niche in the cancer advocacy landscape is promoting policy change to ensure quality cancer care. Our vision is to be an advocacy organization that reflects the needs of all cancer survivors to effect policy change at the national level.

To help meet those challenges, NCCS:

• Advocates for changes in how the nation researches, regulates, finances and delivers quality cancer care.
• Empowers cancer survivors through its publications and programs, which provide tools for self-advocacy.
• Convenes other cancer organizations to address nationwide public policy issues affecting cancer survivors.

NCCS represents the millions of Americans who share a common experience – the survivorship experience – living with, through and beyond a cancer diagnosis. That experience has value and can be a transforming, positive force. NCCS also knows that cancer survivors and those who care for them face many challenges.

The NCCS Cancer Policy & Advocacy Team (CPAT) is a program for survivors and caregivers to learn about pressing policy issues that affect quality cancer care in order to be engaged as advocates in public policy around the needs of cancer survivors. Driven by the energy and experiences of the CPAT Steering Committee, CPAT provides cancer survivors and caregivers with tools and training that build upon their personal experiences to become effective advocates to improve cancer care.