Top 10 Cancer Treatment Centers South Carolina: 2026 Guide

# Finding Hope and Healing: Top 10 Cancer Treatment Centers in South Carolina

A cancer diagnosis brings a whirlwind of emotions, questions, and the urgent need to find the best possible care. When facing terminal cancer or advanced-stage disease, the choice of where to receive treatment becomes even more critical. If you or a loved one are navigating this challenging journey in South Carolina, you're not alone—and you have access to some of the nation's leading cancer treatment centers south carolina.

South Carolina is home to world-class oncology facilities that combine cutting-edge medical technology with compassionate care. From NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers to community hospitals with specialized oncology programs, the state offers diverse options for patients seeking everything from curative treatments to palliative care focused on comfort and quality of life.

This comprehensive guide examines the top cancer treatment centers across South Carolina, helping you understand your options and make informed decisions during this difficult time. Whether you're seeking aggressive treatment options, exploring clinical trials, or focusing on comfort care, the right facility can make all the difference in your cancer journey.

1. Hollings Cancer Center at MUSC (Charleston)

As South Carolina's only National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center, Hollings Cancer Center represents the pinnacle of cancer care in the state. Located at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, this facility serves as both a treatment center and a research powerhouse, where groundbreaking discoveries translate directly into patient care.

Strengths

• Only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in South Carolina, meeting the highest national standards

• Over 200 active clinical trials offering access to cutting-edge experimental treatments

• Performs more than 150 bone marrow transplants annually, one of the highest volumes in the Southeast

• Multidisciplinary tumor boards review 100% of complex cases for treatment planning

• 5-year survival rates consistently above national averages across multiple cancer types

• Research funding exceeding $50 million annually drives innovation in patient care

• Magnet-designated nursing program ensuring exceptional bedside care quality

Specialties

• Bone marrow and stem cell transplantation for blood cancers and solid tumors

• CAR-T cell therapy and advanced immunotherapy protocols

• Precision medicine and genomic tumor profiling

• Pediatric oncology with specialized childhood cancer programs

• Rare cancer treatment with access to experimental protocols

• Radiation oncology with advanced techniques including proton therapy planning

• Surgical oncology with minimally invasive and robotic approaches

Patient Support Areas

• Comprehensive palliative care program integrated throughout treatment

• Social work services addressing financial, emotional, and practical needs

• Nutrition counseling with registered dietitians specializing in oncology

• Integrative medicine including acupuncture, massage, and mind-body therapies

• Patient navigation services to coordinate complex care across specialties

• Support groups for patients and families, including disease-specific groups

• Spiritual care services with chaplains from multiple faith traditions

Things to Consider

• As a major academic medical center, appointment scheduling may require longer wait times

• Parking and navigation can be challenging in the downtown Charleston medical district

• Some insurance plans may require prior authorization for specialized services

• Research focus means some appointments may involve medical students or residents

• Higher complexity of cases may mean longer treatment planning timelines

• Limited evening and weekend appointment availability for some services

2. Prisma Health Cancer Institute (Statewide Network)

Prisma Health Cancer Institute operates the largest network of cancer care facilities in South Carolina, providing comprehensive oncology services across multiple locations. This extensive network ensures that patients throughout the state can access high-quality cancer care without traveling long distances, making it particularly valuable for those managing terminal cancer who need convenient, ongoing care.

Strengths

• Largest cancer care network in South Carolina with 15+ locations statewide

• Treats over 8,000 new cancer patients annually across all locations

• Standardized care protocols ensure consistent quality regardless of location

• Strong emphasis on community-based care reducing travel burden for patients

• Robust telemedicine program enabling remote consultations and follow-ups

• Comprehensive electronic health records system coordinating care across sites

• Active participation in national clinical trial networks expanding treatment options

Specialties

• Breast cancer with dedicated breast centers and genetic counseling services

• Lung cancer screening and treatment including minimally invasive surgical options

• Colorectal cancer with advanced surgical and medical management

• Gynecologic oncology with specialized women's cancer programs

• Hematologic malignancies including leukemia and lymphoma treatment

• Radiation oncology with IMRT, IGRT, and stereotactic radiosurgery capabilities

• Medical oncology with access to latest chemotherapy and targeted therapy protocols

Patient Support Areas

• Patient navigation services helping coordinate care across multiple locations

• Financial counseling and assistance programs for treatment-related expenses

• Transportation services for patients traveling between network facilities

• Survivorship programs focusing on long-term health after cancer treatment

• Caregiver support programs recognizing the needs of family members

• Nutritional support with dietitians specializing in cancer-related dietary needs

• Palliative care services available at multiple network locations

Things to Consider

• Quality of care may vary slightly between different network locations

• Some specialized services only available at larger hub facilities

• Insurance coverage may differ depending on specific network location

• Coordination between multiple locations can sometimes create communication gaps

• Rural locations may have limited access to newest technologies or treatments

• Wait times for appointments may be longer at popular or convenient locations

3. Bon Secours St. Francis Cancer Center (Greenville)

Located in the heart of South Carolina's Upstate region, Bon Secours St. Francis Cancer Center serves as a regional hub for comprehensive cancer care. This facility combines the resources of a major health system with a community-focused approach, making it an excellent choice for patients seeking advanced treatment close to home in the Greenville area.

Strengths

• Comprehensive cancer center serving the fastest-growing region in South Carolina

• Advanced robotic surgical capabilities with da Vinci Xi surgical systems

• Multidisciplinary care teams meeting weekly to review complex cases

• Strong partnership with regional medical schools enhancing clinical expertise

• Accredited by the Commission on Cancer ensuring adherence to national standards

• Average patient satisfaction scores consistently above 95% in key quality measures

• Integrated electronic health records facilitating seamless care coordination

Specialties

• Robotic surgery for prostate, gynecologic, and colorectal cancers

• Advanced radiation therapy including IMRT, IGRT, and brachytherapy

• Medical oncology with access to latest immunotherapy and targeted treatments

• Breast cancer care with dedicated breast center and genetic counseling

• Thoracic oncology including lung cancer screening and treatment programs

• Hematology services for blood disorders and hematologic malignancies

• Palliative care and pain management integrated throughout cancer treatment

Patient Support Areas

• Comprehensive patient navigation from diagnosis through survivorship

• Financial counseling with dedicated staff for insurance and billing questions

• Support groups for various cancer types led by licensed social workers

• Integrative medicine services including massage therapy and acupuncture

• Nutritional counseling with registered dietitians specializing in oncology

• Spiritual care services available to patients and families of all faiths

• Survivorship clinic focusing on long-term health after cancer treatment

Things to Consider

• Limited research opportunities compared to academic medical centers

• Some highly specialized treatments may require referral to other facilities

• Parking can be challenging during peak hours at the main Greenville location

• Insurance networks may limit access for some patients in surrounding areas

• Weekend and evening appointment availability may be restricted for some services

• Clinical trial options may be more limited than at larger research institutions

4. Lexington Medical Center Cancer Center (Lexington)

Strategically located in the Columbia metropolitan area, Lexington Medical Center Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer care to patients throughout the South Carolina Midlands. This facility has built a strong reputation for combining advanced medical technology with personalized, compassionate care, making it a trusted choice for families facing cancer diagnoses.

Strengths

• Serves the Columbia metro area with convenient access from multiple counties

• State-of-the-art linear accelerators providing precise radiation therapy treatments

• Multidisciplinary tumor board meetings ensuring comprehensive treatment planning

• Strong surgical oncology program with experienced, fellowship-trained surgeons

• Comprehensive infusion center with private treatment bays and family accommodations

• Electronic health record integration with primary care physicians throughout the region

• High patient satisfaction scores with particular strength in communication and care coordination

Specialties

• Surgical oncology including minimally invasive and laparoscopic techniques

• Radiation oncology with IMRT, IGRT, and stereotactic body radiation therapy

• Medical oncology with access to newest chemotherapy and immunotherapy protocols

• Breast cancer treatment with multidisciplinary breast care team

• Gastrointestinal cancers including colorectal and pancreatic cancer treatment

• Genitourinary cancers with specialized prostate and bladder cancer programs

• Hematologic malignancies including comprehensive leukemia and lymphoma care

Patient Support Areas

• Patient navigation services guiding patients through treatment journey

• Social work services addressing psychosocial and practical needs

• Nutritional counseling with dietitians experienced in cancer-related nutrition issues

• Support groups for patients and caregivers facilitated by licensed professionals

• Financial counseling and assistance with insurance and billing concerns

• Palliative care consultation available for symptom management and quality of life

• Chaplaincy services providing spiritual support regardless of religious background

Things to Consider

• Clinical trial opportunities may be more limited than at major academic centers

• Some rare cancer types may require referral to specialized centers

• Appointment availability may be limited during peak demand periods

• Insurance pre-authorization requirements may delay some treatment initiation

• Limited weekend and holiday services for non-emergency situations

• Parking availability can be challenging during busy clinic days

5. Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System - Gibbs Cancer Center & Research Institute (Spartanburg)

The Gibbs Cancer Center & Research Institute stands out as a community-based cancer center with a strong emphasis on clinical research and innovative treatments. Located in Spartanburg, this facility serves patients throughout the South Carolina Upstate and western North Carolina, offering a unique combination of cutting-edge research opportunities and compassionate community care.

Strengths

• Designated Research Institute status enabling participation in advanced clinical trials

• Over 75 active clinical trials providing access to experimental treatments

• Partnership with major pharmaceutical companies for drug development studies

• Comprehensive multidisciplinary care teams including all oncology subspecialties

• Advanced radiation therapy equipment including TrueBeam linear accelerators

• Strong focus on patient education with dedicated teaching facilities

• Excellent nurse-to-patient ratios ensuring personalized attention during treatment

Specialties

• Clinical trial coordination for patients seeking experimental treatment options

• Hematology and blood disorders with specialized expertise in complex cases

• Radiation oncology with advanced techniques including stereotactic radiosurgery

• Medical oncology with early access to promising new drug therapies

• Surgical oncology with minimally invasive and robotic surgical options

• Gynecologic oncology with specialized women's cancer treatment programs

• Neuro-oncology for brain and central nervous system tumors

Patient Support Areas

• Clinical research coordinators helping patients understand and access trials

• Comprehensive patient navigation throughout the cancer treatment journey

• Social work services addressing emotional, practical, and financial concerns

• Support groups for various cancer types and family members

• Nutritional counseling with registered dietitians specializing in oncology

• Integrative therapies including massage, acupuncture, and meditation programs

• Palliative care services focusing on comfort and quality of life improvement

Things to Consider

• Research focus may mean longer appointment times for initial consultations

• Clinical trial participation requires meeting specific eligibility criteria

• Some experimental treatments may have unknown side effects or outcomes

• Insurance coverage for clinical trial-related expenses can be complex

• Research protocols may require more frequent monitoring and follow-up visits

• Limited evening and weekend availability for routine appointments

6. Piedmont Medical Center Cancer Center (Rock Hill)

Serving the Charlotte metropolitan area from its Rock Hill location, Piedmont Medical Center Cancer Center provides comprehensive cancer care to patients in both South Carolina and North Carolina. This facility offers the advantage of being part of a larger health system while maintaining a community-focused approach to cancer care.

Strengths

• Strategic location serving both South Carolina and North Carolina patients

• Part of Atrium Health network providing access to additional resources and specialists

• Multidisciplinary care teams ensuring comprehensive treatment planning

• Advanced diagnostic imaging including PET/CT and MRI capabilities

• Comprehensive infusion services with comfortable, family-friendly treatment areas

• Strong emphasis on patient education and shared decision-making

• Coordination with Charlotte-area specialists for complex cases requiring additional expertise

Specialties

• General medical oncology with access to standard and investigational therapies

• Radiation oncology with modern linear accelerators and treatment planning systems

• Surgical oncology coordinated with experienced surgeons throughout the network

• Breast cancer care with multidisciplinary breast health programs

• Lung cancer treatment including screening and early detection programs

• Colorectal cancer management with advanced surgical and medical approaches

• Supportive care services integrated throughout the treatment process

Patient Support Areas

• Patient navigation services coordinating care across multiple specialties

• Social work support addressing psychosocial and practical needs

• Financial counseling and assistance with insurance and treatment costs

• Support groups for patients and families dealing with various cancer types

• Nutritional counseling with dietitians experienced in cancer-related dietary needs

• Chaplaincy services providing spiritual support to patients and families

• Survivorship programs focusing on life after cancer treatment

Things to Consider

• Limited research opportunities compared to major academic medical centers

• Some highly specialized treatments may require referral to Charlotte-area facilities

• Insurance network participation may vary for South Carolina versus North Carolina residents

• Clinical trial options may be more limited than at dedicated research institutions

• Appointment scheduling may need to accommodate patients from two states

• Weekend and evening services may be limited for routine care

7. Grand Strand Medical Center (Myrtle Beach)

Located in the heart of South Carolina's Grand Strand, Grand Strand Medical Center's cancer program serves both year-round residents and seasonal visitors to the coastal region. This facility has developed unique expertise in providing cancer care to patients who may be away from their primary support systems, making it particularly valuable for those who relocate during treatment or snowbirds seeking care.

Strengths

• Specialized in providing care to patients temporarily relocated for treatment

• Coordination with out-of-state oncologists for seamless care transitions

• Tourist-friendly scheduling accommodating extended stays for treatment

• Advanced radiation therapy capabilities serving the entire coastal region

• Multidisciplinary care teams experienced in managing complex logistics

• Strong relationships with local hospitality industry for patient and family accommodations

• Electronic health record systems facilitating communication with referring physicians

Specialties

• General medical oncology with standard chemotherapy and immunotherapy protocols

• Radiation oncology serving patients throughout the Grand Strand region

• Surgical oncology coordinated with experienced cancer surgeons

• Skin cancer treatment reflecting the coastal population's higher risk

• Breast cancer care with comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services

• Lung cancer management including screening programs

• Supportive care services adapted to the unique needs of the coastal community

Patient Support Areas

• Patient navigation with expertise in coordinating care for out-of-area patients

• Social work services understanding the challenges of being away from home during treatment

• Assistance with local housing and transportation for patients and families

• Support groups adapted to the transient nature of the coastal community

• Nutritional counseling with attention to dietary challenges while traveling

• Coordination with home-area healthcare providers for continuing care

• Spiritual care services welcoming patients from diverse geographic and religious backgrounds

Things to Consider

• Limited clinical trial opportunities compared to major research centers

• Seasonal population fluctuations may affect appointment availability

• Insurance coverage may be complex for out-of-state patients

• Specialized services may require travel to Charleston or other major centers

• Support systems may be limited for patients without local family or friends

• Hurricane season may occasionally disrupt treatment schedules

8. Roper St. Francis Healthcare (Charleston)

Roper St. Francis Healthcare operates a comprehensive network of cancer care services throughout the Charleston area, offering patients multiple convenient locations for treatment. This healthcare system combines the resources of a major regional network with personalized care, providing comprehensive cancer services from diagnosis through survivorship.

Strengths

• Multiple locations throughout the Charleston metropolitan area for convenient access

• Comprehensive network care allowing treatment at various facilities as needed

• Strong coordination between primary care physicians and oncology specialists

• Advanced diagnostic capabilities including molecular tumor profiling

• Multidisciplinary care teams meeting regularly to review complex cases

• Established relationships with Hollings Cancer Center for complex case referrals

• Comprehensive electronic health records facilitating care coordination across locations

Specialties

• Network-based general oncology care with consistent protocols across locations

• Radiation oncology with modern equipment and advanced treatment techniques

• Medical oncology including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies

• Surgical oncology coordinated with experienced cancer surgeons throughout the network

• Breast cancer care with comprehensive breast health programs

• Gastrointestinal cancers with multidisciplinary treatment approaches

• Supportive care services available at multiple network locations

Patient Support Areas

• Patient navigation services helping coordinate care across multiple locations

• Social work support available at various network facilities

• Financial counseling and assistance with insurance and billing questions

• Support groups offered at different locations throughout the network

• Nutritional counseling with dietitians specializing in cancer care

• Palliative care services integrated throughout the healthcare network

• Spiritual care services available to patients and families

Things to Consider

• Care quality may vary slightly between different network locations

• Some specialized services only available at certain network facilities

• Insurance coverage and costs may differ depending on specific location

• Coordination between multiple locations may occasionally create communication challenges

• Clinical trial opportunities may be limited compared to academic medical centers

• Appointment scheduling may be complex when coordinating care across multiple sites

9. AnMed Health Cancer Center (Anderson)

AnMed Health Cancer Center serves the Anderson community and surrounding areas in the South Carolina Upstate, providing comprehensive cancer care with a strong focus on patient-centered treatment approaches. This community-based cancer center emphasizes personalized care while utilizing advanced technologies to deliver effective cancer treatments.

Strengths

• Strong community connections with deep understanding of local patient needs

• Patient-centered care approach emphasizing individual preferences and values

• Multidisciplinary care teams ensuring comprehensive treatment planning

• Advanced technology including modern radiation therapy equipment

• Strong relationships with regional specialists for complex case management

• Emphasis on maintaining patients' quality of life throughout treatment

• Coordination with primary care physicians for comprehensive health management

Specialties

• General medical oncology with access to standard and newer treatment protocols

• Radiation oncology with advanced techniques and precise treatment delivery

• Surgical oncology coordinated with experienced cancer surgeons

• Breast cancer care with comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services

• Lung cancer management including screening and early detection programs

• Colorectal cancer treatment with multidisciplinary approach

• Supportive care services integrated throughout the treatment process

Patient Support Areas

• Patient navigation services guiding patients through the treatment journey

• Social work support addressing emotional and practical challenges

• Financial counseling and assistance with treatment-related expenses

• Support groups for patients and families dealing with cancer

• Nutritional counseling with dietitians experienced in cancer care

• Spiritual care services available to patients and families of all backgrounds

• Survivorship programs focusing on life after cancer treatment

Things to Consider

• Limited clinical trial opportunities compared to major research institutions

• Some highly specialized treatments may require referral to larger centers

• Research opportunities may be more limited than at academic medical centers

• Complex or rare cancers may need management at specialized facilities

• Weekend and evening appointment availability may be restricted

• Insurance network participation may limit access for some patients

10. Self Regional Healthcare Cancer Center (Greenwood)

Self Regional Healthcare Cancer Center serves the rural communities of western South Carolina, providing essential cancer care services to an area that might otherwise have limited access to oncology specialists. This facility focuses on making quality cancer care accessible to rural populations while maintaining connections to larger medical centers for complex cases.

Strengths

• Serves rural communities that might otherwise lack access to cancer care

• Strong focus on accessible, affordable cancer treatment options

• Coordination with larger medical centers for complex case management

• Community-based approach understanding the unique needs of rural patients

• Emphasis on maintaining patients close to their support systems when possible

• Transportation assistance programs helping patients access care

• Strong relationships with primary care physicians throughout the region

Specialties

• General medical oncology providing standard cancer treatment protocols

• Radiation oncology serving patients throughout the western South Carolina region

• Surgical oncology coordinated with experienced cancer surgeons

• Breast cancer care with basic diagnostic and treatment services

• Lung cancer management adapted to rural population needs

• Colorectal cancer treatment with emphasis on early detection and prevention

• Supportive care services tailored to rural community needs

Patient Support Areas

• Patient navigation with understanding of rural healthcare challenges

• Social work services addressing unique rural community needs

• Transportation assistance for patients traveling longer distances for treatment

• Support groups adapted to smaller, close-knit community dynamics

• Financial counseling with attention to rural economic challenges

• Coordination with urban medical centers for specialized care when needed

• Spiritual care services reflecting rural community values and traditions

Things to Consider

• Limited clinical trial opportunities due to rural location and smaller patient volume

• Some specialized treatments require travel to larger medical centers

• Advanced diagnostic equipment may be more limited than at major centers

• Subspecialty oncology services may not be available locally

• Insurance coverage may be limited in rural areas

• Recruitment and retention of oncology specialists can be challenging in rural settings

How to Choose the Right Cancer Treatment Center for Your Needs

Selecting the best cancer treatment centers south carolina for your specific situation requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Your choice should align with your medical needs, personal preferences, and practical considerations like location and insurance coverage.

Medical Factors to Consider:

Start by understanding your specific cancer type, stage, and treatment options. Some centers excel in particular specialties—for example, Hollings Cancer Center offers the most comprehensive clinical trial options, while Prisma Health provides the widest geographic access. If you have a rare cancer or need specialized procedures, you may need to prioritize research-focused institutions over convenience.

Practical Considerations:

Consider your insurance coverage and financial resources for cancer treatment. Some centers may be out-of-network, significantly impacting your costs. Geographic location matters too—while you might prefer the most prestigious center, the stress and expense of long-distance travel during treatment can be substantial.

Quality of Life Factors:

For patients with terminal cancer, palliative care services become crucial. Look for centers that integrate palliative care throughout treatment, not just at the end. Support services for both patients and families can make an enormous difference in your treatment experience.

Questions to Ask When Evaluating Centers:

• What is your experience treating my specific type and stage of cancer?

• What clinical trials are available for my condition?
• How do you coordinate care if I need treatment at multiple locations?

• What support services are available for patients and families?
• How do you handle insurance authorization and billing questions?

• Can you provide references from other patients with similar diagnoses?

Remember that the "best" center is the one that best meets your individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Don't hesitate to seek second opinions from multiple oncologists before making your final decision.