The Penn State Cancer Institute, situated at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, is under investigation following a comprehensive report by Spotlight PA. The inquiry delves into the institute’s clinical and research operations, highlighting potential issues that could impact patient care and the quality of cancer research conducted there.
As part of the broader Penn State Health system, the cancer institute plays a critical role in treating patients and conducting vital research. Until May 2024, Raymond Hohl directed the clinical and research activities of the center. Following his transition, he now focuses on the educational and research aspects of the institute’s mission.
Understanding National Cancer Institute Designation
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation is a prestigious recognition awarded to cancer centers that demonstrate excellence in research and patient care. Established in 1971, this designation signifies a commitment to advancing cancer treatment through specialized care and innovative research trials. There are currently 73 designated centers in the United States, many of which are affiliated with leading university medical schools.
To achieve this designation, cancer centers undergo a rigorous application process, often exceeding a year in duration and comprising over 1,000 pages of documentation. Evaluations assess research capabilities and the center’s ability to address regional healthcare needs. The highest designation is “comprehensive,” which acknowledges a center’s multifaceted research efforts and its impact on local communities.
Leadership Changes and Accountability
Recent leadership transitions within the Penn State Health system raise further questions about accountability and oversight. Steve Massini retired as CEO in October 2024, followed by the retirement of Deborah Addo, the chief operating officer, in the fall of 2025. Additionally, Robert Harbaugh, who formerly served as chief medical officer of Hershey Medical Center, stepped back from his leadership role in November 2025 but remains a professor at the medical college.
In September 2023, Karen Kim was appointed as the permanent dean of the medical college after Kevin Black served as interim dean. Black is currently the interim vice dean for educational affairs at the medical school.
In light of the investigation, Spotlight PA reached out to over 150 individuals associated with the Penn State Cancer Institute, interviewing more than 30 current and former employees. Many sources opted for anonymity due to concerns about retaliation, underscoring the sensitive nature of the findings. The newsroom meticulously reviewed hundreds of documents, including audit reports, patient safety documents, and internal communications, to corroborate the information provided.
Despite numerous attempts to engage with Penn State Health officials for comments, the organization declined to make any of the leaders available for interviews. A spokesperson offered a general statement, yet did not address specific questions raised by the newsroom.
In a final effort to obtain feedback, Spotlight PA presented detailed findings to Penn State and individuals linked to the health system about two weeks prior to publication. No responses were received by the deadline, reflecting a lack of engagement from the administration regarding the serious issues brought to light.
The implications of these findings are significant for both the patients served by the Penn State Cancer Institute and the broader medical community. Ongoing scrutiny of the institute may lead to changes in leadership, policy, and patient care protocols to ensure compliance with established standards and ethical guidelines in cancer research and treatment.
