The MENA-NCCN Regional Center for NCCN Collaborations:

The MENA Regional Center for NCCN Collaboration was necessary because of the complex processes involving various NCCN activities. These activities include adapting guidelines, dissemination of information with regular updates. Due to the large numbers of individuals involved in the NCCN activities and the time and geographical differences from the US, it was beneficial to have a regional center to ensure timely coordination of communications between the time zones; this office is the first Regional Center for NCCN Collaborations based outside USA.

The Functions of the MENA Regional Center for NCCN Collaborations:

• Serves as the point of contact to facilitate communication among all involved parties within the region, with USA NCCN headquarters, and staff.
• Coordinates all MENA-NCCN meetings, including committee chairpersons’ meetings, regional meetings, and others. These meetings will rotate in different countries in the region, with local organizing entities facilitating local logistics.
• Facilitates and coordinates the NCCN Guidelines adaptation process under the guidance of NCCN experts.
• Coordinates the publication process of all MENA-NCCN related activities; coordinates conference calls and web conferences; prepares meeting agendas and distributes minutes; and maintains regular contact with the NCCN office.
• The scope and mission is likely to expand over time as the initiative develops.