For the recognition of a ZSE as a reference center (type A center), the National Action Plan for Rare Diseases has defined certain criteria. Among other things, a ZSE must demonstrate the equal importance of research and care activities and the implementation of interdisciplinary case conferences. 

 

As a member of the NAMSE network, the Eva Luise and Horst Köhler Foundation as advocated an audit procedure for the quality assurance of this extremely important care structure. In the meantime, an independent certification body has begun to audit the centers and certify their quality. The first centers have already been successfully certified.

 

With their "OnkoZert" certification procedure, the cancer centers have demonstrated how an orderly certification procedure can promote cooperation across locations and save seriously ill patients waiting times and unnecessary wandering in the healthcare system.