MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas consistently ranks as the nation's top cancer hospital and operates one of the world's leading mesothelioma treatment programs [1]. For patients facing this challenging diagnosis, MD Anderson offers access to pioneering specialists, cutting-edge clinical trials, and comprehensive multimodal treatment—all under one roof. Understanding what to expect and how to access care can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment journey.
Executive Summary
MD Anderson Cancer Center is one of the world's premier mesothelioma treatment facilities, offering comprehensive care from diagnosis through survivorship. The mesothelioma program features world-renowned thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation specialists working together to develop personalized treatment plans. Patients have access to extensive clinical trials testing next-generation immunotherapies and targeted treatments. Located in the Texas Medical Center—the world's largest—MD Anderson provides the specialized, high-volume expertise that research shows improves mesothelioma outcomes. Financial counselors help navigate insurance and assistance programs.
8 Key Facts About MD Anderson's Mesothelioma Program
- National Ranking: #1 cancer hospital in America (U.S. News & World Report) [3]
- NCI Designation: Comprehensive Cancer Center with highest designation [2]
- Surgical Volume: High-volume center with experienced mesothelioma surgeons [4]
- Clinical Trials: Numerous active trials for pleural and peritoneal mesothelioma
- Multimodal Care: Surgery, chemo, radiation, immunotherapy coordinated
- Location: Texas Medical Center, Houston—world's largest medical complex
- Insurance: Accepts most major plans including Medicare
- New Patients: Typically seen within 2-4 weeks of scheduling
Why Choose MD Anderson for Mesothelioma Treatment?
Research consistently shows that mesothelioma patients treated at high-volume specialized centers have better outcomes than those treated at facilities with limited experience [4]. MD Anderson combines exceptional expertise with comprehensive resources.
Ranked cancer hospital in America for cancer care
World-Class Expertise
MD Anderson's mesothelioma program includes:
- Thoracic surgeons: Specialists performing hundreds of chest surgeries annually
- Medical oncologists: Experts in mesothelioma chemotherapy and immunotherapy
- Radiation oncologists: Advanced IMRT and proton therapy specialists
- Pathologists: Mesothelioma-specific diagnostic expertise
- Radiologists: Specialized imaging interpretation
- Research scientists: Translating discoveries into treatments
The MD Anderson profile provides detailed information about the program's capabilities.
Multidisciplinary Tumor Board
Every mesothelioma patient's case is reviewed by a tumor board—a team of specialists who collaborate to develop the optimal treatment plan. This coordinated approach ensures:
- Multiple expert perspectives on each case
- Consideration of all treatment options
- Coordinated timing of multimodal therapies
- Seamless transitions between treatment phases
"I've worked with patients from across the country who've traveled to MD Anderson for mesothelioma care. The difference a specialized center makes is remarkable—from the precision of the surgical team to the breadth of clinical trial options. These specialists see mesothelioma every day, which matters enormously for a rare cancer."
— David Foster, Executive Director of Client Services, Danziger & De Llano
Mesothelioma Treatments Available at MD Anderson
MD Anderson offers every standard and emerging treatment for mesothelioma, allowing treatment plans to be tailored to each patient's specific situation.
Surgical Options
For pleural mesothelioma patients who are surgical candidates:
| Procedure | Description | Typical Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Pleurectomy/Decortication (P/D) | Removes pleura and visible tumor, preserves lung | Earlier stage, good lung function |
| Extrapleural Pneumonectomy (EPP) | Removes lung, pleura, diaphragm, pericardium | Select cases, excellent overall health |
| CRS-HIPEC | For peritoneal mesothelioma: surgery plus heated chemo | Peritoneal mesothelioma patients |
The treatment options guide explains each surgical approach in detail.
Chemotherapy
Standard chemotherapy regimens include:
- Pemetrexed (Alimta) plus cisplatin: First-line standard of care
- Pemetrexed plus carboplatin: Alternative for patients who can't tolerate cisplatin
- Second-line options: Various agents for progression after initial treatment
Immunotherapy
MD Anderson offers FDA-approved immunotherapies and clinical trial access:
- Opdivo (nivolumab) plus Yervoy (ipilimumab): FDA-approved first-line combination
- Keytruda (pembrolizumab): Available in certain clinical settings
- Emerging agents: Through clinical trials
Clinical trials for mesothelioma and thoracic cancers
Radiation Therapy
Advanced radiation options include:
- Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT): Precise tumor targeting
- Proton therapy: Available at MD Anderson Proton Therapy Center
- Palliative radiation: For symptom control
Clinical Trials at MD Anderson
MD Anderson runs extensive clinical trials testing next-generation mesothelioma treatments. Trials may offer access to promising therapies before they're widely available.
Current Trial Focus Areas
- Novel immunotherapies: New checkpoint inhibitors and combinations
- Targeted therapies: Drugs targeting specific molecular pathways
- CAR T-cell therapy: Cellular immunotherapy approaches
- Combination strategies: Integrating multiple treatment modalities
- Surgical innovations: Optimizing multimodal approaches
The clinical trials guide explains how to evaluate and access trials.
"Clinical trials at MD Anderson have produced many of the advances that are now standard mesothelioma care. When I help patients evaluate their options, I always discuss trial opportunities—these can provide access to cutting-edge treatments while contributing to research that helps future patients."
— David Foster, Executive Director of Client Services, Danziger & De Llano
How to Become a Patient at MD Anderson
Accessing care at MD Anderson involves several steps, but the process is designed to be patient-friendly.
Steps to Schedule an Appointment
- Contact the mesothelioma program: Call 877-632-6789 or request an appointment online
- Gather medical records: Collect pathology, imaging, and treatment history
- Submit records for review: MD Anderson reviews to confirm appropriate referral
- Schedule appointment: Typically within 2-4 weeks
- Travel to Houston: Plan for initial visit of 3-5 days
What to Bring to Your First Appointment
- Pathology slides and reports: Original biopsy materials for review
- Imaging studies: CT, PET, MRI scans on disc (not just reports)
- Treatment records: Chemotherapy, surgery, radiation history
- Medication list: All current prescriptions and supplements
- Insurance cards: Primary and secondary coverage
- Questions: Written list for your care team
- Support person: Family member or friend to help take notes
Insurance and Financial Considerations
Understanding the financial aspects of treatment helps patients plan appropriately.
Insurance Coverage
- Most major insurance accepted: Including Blue Cross, Aetna, Cigna, United
- Medicare: Accepted for qualifying patients
- Out-of-network: Some plans may cover as out-of-network provider
- Prior authorization: MD Anderson helps obtain necessary approvals
Financial Assistance
MD Anderson offers support for patients facing financial challenges:
- Financial counselors: Help navigate insurance and payment options
- Charity care programs: For qualifying uninsured patients
- Payment plans: Structured payment arrangements
- Drug assistance: Help accessing patient assistance programs
Typical cost range for mesothelioma surgery and initial treatment
The treatment costs guide provides detailed cost information and assistance resources.
Lodging and Travel Considerations
Many mesothelioma patients travel to Houston for MD Anderson care. Planning for lodging and logistics eases the treatment journey.
Nearby Accommodations
- Jesse H. Jones Rotary House: Connected to MD Anderson, discounted rates
- Texas Medical Center hotels: Multiple options within walking distance
- Extended stay options: For longer treatment courses
- Nonprofit housing: Organizations providing free or reduced-cost lodging
Transportation
- Houston airports: George Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Hobby (HOU)
- Airport shuttles: Direct service to Texas Medical Center
- Local transportation: Free shuttles between MD Anderson facilities
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is MD Anderson considered a top mesothelioma treatment center?
MD Anderson Cancer Center is consistently ranked #1 for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report and is designated as an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center. The mesothelioma program features world-renowned specialists, pioneering surgical techniques, extensive clinical trial options, and a multidisciplinary approach that coordinates surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy for optimal outcomes.
What mesothelioma treatments are available at MD Anderson?
MD Anderson offers comprehensive mesothelioma treatment including surgery (pleurectomy/decortication, extrapleural pneumonectomy, CRS-HIPEC for peritoneal), chemotherapy, radiation therapy (including IMRT), immunotherapy (Opdivo/Yervoy), targeted therapies, and extensive clinical trials testing emerging treatments. Treatment plans are personalized based on disease stage, cell type, and patient health.
How do I become a patient at MD Anderson for mesothelioma?
To become a patient, contact MD Anderson's mesothelioma program directly or request a referral from your oncologist. You'll need to provide medical records, pathology slides, and imaging studies. New patient appointments typically take 2-4 weeks to schedule. MD Anderson accepts most insurance and offers financial assistance programs for qualifying patients.
What should I bring to my first MD Anderson appointment?
Bring complete medical records including pathology reports, CT and PET scans (images on disc, not just reports), surgical reports, treatment history, list of current medications, insurance cards, and a list of questions. Having a family member or advocate accompany you is recommended to help remember information discussed.
Does MD Anderson offer clinical trials for mesothelioma?
Yes, MD Anderson runs numerous mesothelioma clinical trials testing new immunotherapies, targeted therapies, surgical techniques, and combination treatments. Clinical trials may provide access to promising treatments before they're widely available. Your care team will discuss trial options appropriate for your specific situation.
How much does treatment at MD Anderson cost?
Treatment costs vary widely depending on the treatment plan—surgery can cost $150,000-$250,000, while immunotherapy may run $10,000-$15,000 monthly. MD Anderson accepts most major insurance plans and Medicare. Financial counselors help patients navigate coverage, and assistance programs exist for those without adequate insurance.
Next Steps
If you're considering MD Anderson for mesothelioma treatment, taking action promptly gives you the best options. The specialists at MD Anderson are ready to evaluate your case and discuss treatment possibilities.
Our team at Danziger & De Llano helps mesothelioma patients access the care they need while pursuing compensation to cover treatment costs. We can connect you with resources and support your journey.
Related Resources
- Top 6 Mesothelioma Treatment Centers — Compare options
- Clinical Trials 2026 — Latest trial opportunities
- Treatment Costs Guide — Financial planning
- Free Case Assessment — Evaluate compensation options
Learn More
- MD Anderson Cancer Center — Detailed program information
- Mesothelioma Treatment Centers — All specialized facilities
- Clinical Trials — How to access trials
Sources:
- MD Anderson Cancer Center. (2024). MD Anderson Cancer Center Mesothelioma Program.
- National Cancer Institute. (2024). NCI-Designated Cancer Centers.
- U.S. News & World Report. (2024). Best Hospitals for Cancer 2024-25.
- Journal of Clinical Oncology. (2024). Mesothelioma Treatment Outcomes at High-Volume Centers.
Last updated: February 2, 2026
About the Author
David Foster18+ Years Mesothelioma Advocacy | 20 Years Pharmaceutical Industry | Host of MESO Podcast
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