CCO began life in April 1943 as the Ontario Cancer Treatment and Research Foundation. More than a half century later, in 1997, it was formally launched and funded as an Ontario government agency. CCO is governed by The Cancer Act and is accountable to the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC).CCO directs and oversees approximately $1.5 billion in funding for hospitals and other cancer and chronic kidney disease care providers, enabling them to deliver high quality, timely services and improved access to care. CCO employs about 1,000 staff members, all of whom are critical elements that contribute to the success of this organization.