Mission Cancer + Blood now officially part of University of Iowa Health Care

Mission Cancer + Blood is now officially part of University of Iowa Health Care, paving the way for a statewide comprehensive cancer care network aimed at keeping high-quality cancer care local for Iowans.

UI Health Care purchased Mission’s assets on Dec. 31, 2024, several months after the organizations first announced their intent to join forces to fight cancer in Iowa. 

Mission has more than 20 community cancer clinics across Iowa that are now backed by UI Health Care’s National Cancer Institute (NCI­)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, bringing the most advanced oncology care closer to home for more Iowans, particularly in rural areas. 

“This is a turning point in the fight against cancer in Iowa,” says Denise Jamieson, MD, MPH, UI vice president for medical affairs and the Tyrone D. Artz Dean of the Carver College of Medicine. “By adding Mission to UI Health Care’s growing system of care, we are better positioned to collaborate with health systems across the state and critical access hospitals in central Iowa to improve cancer care in Iowa. We intend to build on Mission’s strong, long-standing, and trusted partnerships to bring the highest quality cancer care closer to home for all Iowans.” 

Iowa has one of the fastest growing cancer rates in the country. UI Health Care is investing in the future of cancer care for Iowans by purchasing Mission’s assets, valued at $280 million. Together, the organizations are uniquely positioned to create a statewide comprehensive cancer care network that will provide greater opportunities for oncology specialists to work together to keep care local and increase access to cancer detection, treatment, and research across Iowa.

“Addressing Iowa’s cancer rates requires better collaboration across the state and pooling of resources, which is why Mission and UI Health Care joined forces,” says Phil Stover, JD, MBA, CEO of Mission Cancer + Blood. “Both organizations realized we could do more together: We can provide more patients with access to comprehensive services, shortened time between diagnosis and treatment for rare and difficult cancers, and expanded options for the latest therapies. This is the right thing to do for Iowans.” 

Patients at Mission will continue to have access to the same high-quality cancer care at existing locations. Over time, Mission’s patients will have greater access to clinical trials and enhanced resources from UI Health Care and the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, Iowa’s only NCI-designated cancer center. 

An official NCI comprehensive cancer center designation is the highest distinction a cancer center can achieve. NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers are recognized for scientific leadership and clinical research, in addition to serving their communities by integrating training and education.