The Roundtable has recognized six organizations with the 2017 80% by 2018 National Achievement Award, a prestigious national honor recognizing leadership in the ongoing effort to increase colorectal cancer screening rates across the United States.

The 80% by 2018 National Achievement Award recognizes individuals and organizations who are dedicating their time, talent and expertise to advancing needed initiatives that support the shared goal to regularly screen 80% of adults 50 and over by 2018. This program seeks to highlight the work of 80% by 2018 partners and other leaders and organizations who are advancing this important goal.

After a competitive review of nominees from all over the country, the NCCRT has named Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center of Illinois as this year’s grand prize winner. This medical center will receive $3,000 to support their continued efforts in the fight against colorectal cancer. Other notable honorees include C. L. Brumback Primary Care Clinics of Florida; Candace Henley of the Blue Hat Foundation in Illinois; Great Plains Quality Innovation Network of Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota; Surgery on Sunday Louisville, Inc. of Kentucky; and the Veterans Health Administration, who will each receive $1,000. Honorees also have the option to designate a non-profit of their choice as the recipient of the award funds.

“We are moving full speed ahead in our efforts to reach an ambitious public health goal: an 80% colorectal cancer screening rate by 2018,” says Dr. Richard Wender, chief cancer control officer for the American Cancer Society and NCCRT chair. “Fortunately, we have boots on the ground working every day to reach this goal. Whether it’s a health system engaging their patient base or an individual working with local faith-based institutions, each of our six honorees is a testament to the value and impact of organization and effort. Their work is relentless, their successes are enormous, and I’m confident that they are saving lives.”

Learn more about these organizations’ exemplary work to increase colorectal cancer screening.