Penrose Hospital Cancer Center is the only NPF Clinical Center of Excellence in Southern Colorado and one of only 199 in the nation
COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (March 5, 2026) − CommonSpirit Penrose Hospital is proud to announce it has been nationally recognized as an approved NPF Center of Excellence by the National Pancreas Foundation (NPF). This designation signifies the hospital’s commitment to providing multidisciplinary, high-quality care for patients suffering from pancreatic cancer.
Penrose Hospital Cancer Center is the only NPF Clinical Center of Excellence in Southern Colorado and is one of only 199 NPF Centers of Excellence nationwide.
"We are incredibly honored that Penrose Hospital has been designated as an NPF Center of Excellence for the treatment of pancreatic cancer," said Kristi Olson, Penrose Hospital president. "This recognition is a testament to our dedicated medical teams and our commitment to delivering exceptional and innovative care in our community."
To achieve this prestigious designation, the cancer center had to satisfy rigorous criteria. This includes having a team of specialized physician experts, such as gastroenterologists, surgeons, medical oncology, radiation oncology and interventional radiologists. Beyond physician expertise, the designation highlights institutions that deliver holistic, patient-focused care. This support encompasses pain management services, genetic counseling, high-risk surveillance, oncology nutrition support, and psychosocial care, all vital components for ensuring patient well-being.
"As a member of the medical and surgical oncology team, I am extremely proud of this achievement," stated Dr. Charlie Peters, Surgical Oncologist, Penrose Hospital. "This award validates our team's dedication to delivering excellent, compassionate patient care and highlights our collaborative approach to complex pancreatic conditions."
For more information about CommonSpirit Penrose Hospital’s specialized services, please visit the website. For more information about the National Pancreas Foundation, please visit www.pancreasfoundation.org.
Inspired by faith. Driven by innovation. Powered by humankindness. CommonSpirit Health is building a healthier future for all through its integrated health services. As one of the nation’s largest nonprofit Catholic healthcare organizations, CommonSpirit Health delivers more than 20 million patient encounters annually through more than 2,300 clinics, care sites and 137 hospital-based locations, in addition to its home-based services and virtual care offerings. CommonSpirit has more than 155,000 employees, 45,000 nurses and 25,000 physicians and advanced practice providers across 24 states and contributes more than $4 billion annually in charity care, community benefits and unreimbursed government programs. Together with our patients, physicians, partners, and communities, we are creating a more just, equitable, and innovative healthcare delivery system. Learn more at commonspirit.org.
