[Breast Centers: whim or necessity?]

In order to prevent disparities in the management of breast cancer having a direct impact on the prognosis of patients, to promote early detection and optimal treatment while considering the quality of life of patients, Breast Centers are being set up in Switzerland on the basis of existing models in Europe. The centers provide also follow-up of patients and are submitted to certification criteria established by the Swiss Society of Senology and the Swiss Cancer League. These criteria include in particular the expertise of specialists based on a sufficient volume of activity and training, compliance with recommendations of clinical practice, integration of supportive care and timeliness of care. The certification process is voluntary. A database enables the regular assessment of the provided care and of the compliance with standards. The aim and the modalities of the creation of the Breast Centers are discussed.