Washington, D.C. – September 28, 2015 - MedStar Georgetown University Hospital is proud to be one of 30 centers in the United States and the only facility in the Washington, D.C. area, recognized for the care of people with pancreatic diseases by the National Pancreas Foundation. The NPF is a non-profit organization that awards the designation after rigorously reviewing an institution for its focus on multidisciplinary treatment of pancreatitis and treating the “whole person” with a focus on the best possible outcomes and an improved quality of life.

“We are honored to receive the NPF designation and we hope it will help patients suffering with pancreatic disorders find the expertise they need by seeking out NPF centers for their care,” said Nadim Haddad, MD, chief, Gastroenterology at MedStar Georgetown.  “Patients with pancreatic diseases often present with complicated symptoms that require a high level of expertise to correctly diagnose and treat. At MedStar Georgetown we have a comprehensive set of services including the latest technology in pancreatic diagnostics, pain management, the newest treatments for pancreatic cancer, pancreas transplant and now islet cell transplant.”

“The NPF Center designation will help us to better serve this important patient population,” said Matthew Alsante, executive director of the National Pancreas Foundation. “We can recommend with confidence that patients will receive quality care at these designated centers.”

An approved NPF Center has to meet the criteria that were developed by a task force of medical experts and patient advocates. Criteria include having required expert physician specialists like gastroenterologists, pancreas surgeons and interventional radiologists along with patient-focused programs like pain management services, psychosocial support and more. Designated centers also seek to advance research and lead the way for heightened awareness and understanding of pancreatitis and related conditions among community physicians, allied health professionals, patients, families and the general public.

About The National Pancreas Foundation

Founded in 1997, the National Pancreas Foundation provides hope for those suffering from pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer through funding cutting-edge research, advocating for new and better therapies and providing support and education for patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals. The NPF is the only foundation dedicated to patients suffering from all forms of pancreas disease. For more information visit: www.pancreasfoundation.org.