2026 CLP Outstanding Performance Award Criteria

The Commission on Cancer (CoC) Cancer Liaison Program award recognizes outstanding performance by Cancer Liaison Physicians (CLPs) in their role as the physician quality leaders of their cancer programs. To qualify for the award, CLPS must:

• Have served at least one full year in the CLP role
• Currently serve in the CLP role
• Understand and help to educate Cancer Committee members on the CoC Standards
• Exhibit a clear understanding of NCDB reporting tools and use them effectively to assess program performance
• Identify and bring forward specific issues to the Cancer Committee that have resulted in changes that improve patient care
• Participate in regional cancer-related activities or American College of Surgeons Chapter events
• Foster a strong relationship with the American Cancer Society or utilize American Cancer Society resources in their work
• Excel in the role of CLP

Cancer care teams from the same institution are encouraged to submit one nomination per CLP if there are multiple nominations. Previous CLP Award winners are not eligible for consideration.

The best CLP nominations give detailed examples of how the nominee exceeds expectations in their role as the physician quality leader of their CoC-accredited cancer program’s cancer committee. According to the CoC Optimal Resources for Cancer Care (2020 Standards), the CLP is expected to fulfill the responsibilities within Standards 2.2, 7.1, and 7.3. Additionally, CLPs serve as liaisons with the local American Cancer Society staff, facilitate their participation on the cancer committee, and communicate with their state/regional CoC State Chair. The successful 2024 CLP Outstanding Performance Award nominations described clearly how their CLPs excelled in these areas above.

Learn more and view nomination examples.