Rochester, NY – Rochester Regional Health (RRH) is marking a defining moment in its oncology program, underscoring the strength, continuity, and innovation that position the health system among the nation’s leaders in cancer care.
The Rochester Regional Health’s Lipson Cancer Institute was recently recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of the Top 100 Health Systems with Outstanding Oncology Programs—a national acknowledgment of the program’s quality, patient outcomes, and commitment to multidisciplinary, compassionate care. In addition, RRH has appointed Jeffrey C. Haynes, MD, as Executive Medical Director for the Oncology Service Line, and celebrates Pradyumna “Prad” Phatak, MBBS, MD, outgoing Executive Medical Director, who will receive the Rochester Business Journal ICON Award for his decades of service to patients and the community.
National Recognition for Quality and Innovation
Becker’s Hospital Review’s designation places RRH’s Lipson Cancer Institute among leading oncology programs nationwide, recognizing hospitals and health systems that demonstrate excellence through access, outcomes, and innovation. This marks the second time RRH has been recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review.
This recognition follows the Institute’s three-year full accreditation as a Network Cancer Program from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer in 2024, affirming that RRH meets or exceeds national standards for quality and safety across its entire network of care.
Together, these honors confirm what patients across the region have long known—that exceptional, world-class cancer care is available close to home.
Leadership for the Future of Cancer Care
As Executive Medical Director, Dr. Haynes will lead the continued growth and integration of oncology services across Rochester Regional Health. A board-certified radiation oncologist and long-time leader within the Lipson Cancer Institute, Dr. Haynes has been instrumental in advancing new technologies and strengthening multidisciplinary care models.
“Rochester Regional Health has built an extraordinary oncology program,” said Dr. Haynes. “Our focus will remain on advancing innovation, expanding access, and ensuring every patient receives the highest quality of care with dignity and compassion.”
Honoring a Distinguished Legacy
Dr. Phatak, who has served as Executive Medical Director of Oncology since the program’s inception and formerly as Chair of Medicine and Chief of Hematology/Medical Oncology at Rochester General Hospital, will be honored with the Rochester Business Journal ICON Award for his outstanding contributions to the medical community and his leadership in advancing cancer care throughout the region.
Under Dr. Phatak’s leadership, RRH’s oncology program expanded its reach, strengthened partnerships in research and education, and built a legacy of excellence that continues to guide its mission.
Earlier this month, Dr. Phatak transitioned out of his role in oncology to serve as the Medical Director of Precision Medicine for Rochester Regional Health and Principal Investigator for GenoWell, the only community genetic screening initiative of its kind in the region, designed to identify individuals at higher risk for certain cancers and connect them with timely, personalized care.
“Dr. Phatak’s impact on this program and on our community is immeasurable,” said Dr. Haynes. “His dedication to science, compassion, and education set the standard for what cancer care should be.”
Building on Momentum
With national recognition, new leadership, and a legacy of innovation, Rochester Regional Health’s oncology program enters a new era—one defined by collaboration, clinical excellence, and hope for patients and families across the region.
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About RRH Lipson Cancer Institute
Rochester Regional Health’s Lipson Cancer Institute is a comprehensive cancer care network serving approximately 25,000 patients annually across 13 counties in Western New York and the Finger Lakes. The institute integrates multiple cancer care treatments and support modalities, including clinical trials, genetic testing and state-of-the-art radiation therapy. The Lipson Collaborative Care program supports cancer patients to address symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression using psychological assessments and personalized counseling. The Breast Center is the first in New York to earn the Certified Quality Breast Center of Excellence designation from the National Quality Measures for Breast Centers. Celebrating 40 years of uninterrupted accreditation by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, the Lipson Cancer Institute is the first and the longest-running cancer-accredited program in the region. It also recently achieved network accreditation status across the cancer network.
About Rochester Regional Health
Rochester Regional Health is an integrated health services organization serving the people of Western New York, the Finger Lakes, St. Lawrence County, and beyond. The system includes nine hospitals; primary and specialty practices, rehabilitation centers, ambulatory campuses and urgent care facilities; innovative senior services, facilities and independent housing; a wide range of behavioral health services; and Rochester Regional Health Laboratories and ACM Global Laboratories, a global leader in patient and clinical trials. Rochester Regional Health is the Rochester region's second-largest employer. Learn more at RochesterRegional.org
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