Cancer Buzz

In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Lauren Hughes, RN, director of infusion services at Highlands Oncology about her program's receipt of a 2025 ACCC Innovator Award. Highlands Oncology's innovation, Improving Care Between Clinic Visits: A Sustainable Model for Remote Patient Monitoring, ensures continuous support and symptom management for patients between clinic visits. An early contributor to real-world evidence on the impact of remote patient monitoring, Hughes will discuss how Highlands Oncology significantly reduced emergency department visits and hospitalizations while increasing treatment adherence and patient engagement.     Lauren Hughes, RN Director of Infusion Services Highlands Oncology Fayetteville, Arkansas   “[Patients] like the ease and simplicity of being able to pick up [their] phone, go to an app, and send a quick message...We've heard time and time again [from patients that even though] it's an app...it still feels personal. They feel like they're being checked on and cared for when they're on site...and after hours.” - Lauren Hughes   This podcast is part of a special series featuring the 2025 ACCC Innovator Award winners. For a deeper dive into this topic and other content that will help your team reimagine how care is delivered at your cancer program or practice, register today for the ACCC 42nd National Oncology Conference, October 15-17 in Denver, Colorado.   Resources: Technology-Enabled Assessments Support Remote Care of Oncology Patients and Improve the Care Team Experience Remote Patient Monitoring: The New Frontier in Telemedicine Opportunities Ochsner Chemotherapy Care Companion: Improving Outcomes through Digital Medicine ePROs: Lighting the Way to Improved Outcomes Efficiency and Patient Experience

On October 29-30, 2024, the ACCC Community Oncology Research Institute (ACORI) hosted the Community Oncology Inclusive Clinical Trial Design Summit in Arlington, VA. The event brought together stakeholders including academic and community cancer center practitioners and researchers, advocacy organizations, government agencies, and industry partners to discuss strategies to increase patient access to clinical trials in the community setting. Five priority areas were identified that characterize actionable strategies to promote fair and accessible clinical trial design that is representative of all patients with cancer: strengthening the clinical trial workforce, optimizing trial design, engaging communities outside of clinical trial interactions, decentralizing clinical trials, and leveraging artificial intelligence/digital health tools for increased access and efficiency.   ACCC is committed to providing support in these priority areas to increase representative participation and opportunities in clinical trials for oncology patients across the US. In this episode of CANCER BUZZ, Kimberly Demirhan, MBA, BSN, RN, assistant director of education programs at ACCC, discusses the 5 priority areas identified at the ACORI Summit and ways to transform how we think about access to trials, especially leveraging AI and digital tools to do so.   “We looked at optimizing trial design to reflect real world patient populations ... assessing eligibility criteria to make it more reflective of the patient populations that we see out in the community.”   “[We suggest] simplifying protocols so we're not accidentally eliminating patients [due to] benign factors, and then really engaging our community providers early on in the design process.”   “It's a really important time to be addressing [AI] and looking at the opportunities we have to transform the way we think about clinical trials, how we think about the delivery and access to them.” – Kimberly Demirhan   Kimberly Demirhan, MBA, BSN, RN Assistant Director, Education Programs Association of Cancer Care Centers   Resources: 2024 ACORI Summit Just ASK: Increasing Diversity in Cancer Clinical Research Bringing Cancer Research to the Community: Strategic Approaches to Representative Oncology Clinical Trial Design  

Navigating disparities in the diagnosis and treatment of biliary tract cancer (BTC) is essential for improving patient outcomes, ensuring equitable care, and optimizing the patient experience. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) remains committed to increasing awareness and disseminating the latest strategies for BTC management. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ explores these issues with Paige Griffith, CRNP, lead oncology nurse practitioner at Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, who highlights the vital role of multidisciplinary teams in reducing care fragmentation and streamlining care delivery. CANCER BUZZ also speaks with Chaundra Bishop, a patient with biliary tract cancer, who shares her personal experience confronting systemic barriers—particularly delays and obstacles during the diagnostic process—and offers insights into how addressing such disparities can improve the patient journey for others.   “Everyone plays a role, even from early-stage disease all the way to advanced disease, and having someone help navigate patients through that very complex system is important.” – Paige Griffith, CRNP   “From the patient perspective, I think it's always important to ask for what you need, or ask questions if you don't understand something. Don't, as they say, suffer in silence.” – Chaundra Bishop   Paige Griffith, CRNP  Lead Oncology Nurse Practitioner  Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center  Baltimore, MD    Chaundra Bishop  Patient With Biliary Tract Cancer     Resources:  Bile Duct Cancer - MD Anderson Cancer Center - https://bit.ly/42YPRdT Cholangiocarcinoma - NCI - https://bit.ly/44oV4N2

Synopsis: One of the most significant social determinants of health is housing, which can lead to prolonged hospital stays and an endless cycle of episodic care. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is dedicated to highlighting programs that address this disparity to improve medical outcomes and restore stability to patients' lives. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Deirdre Sekulic, associate director  of social work at Montefiore Health System to discuss ways that HARP prioritizes patient outcomes to improve continuity of care.   “We really wanted to focus on coordinating health and housing and putting in a support system to manage those patients better, get them linked to primary care so they would have better health outcomes and also to improve the flow of people into the emergency room and into the hospital” – Deirdre Sekulic   “Housing is complex, never be afraid to ask people about their housing situation… ask them that in a very dignified manner, but to make sure to ask the question.” – Deirdre Sekulic   Deirdre Sekulic, LCSW Associate Director of Social Work Montefiore Health System   Resources: ·      An Innovative Program Addresses Housing Insecurity - Oncology Issues - https://bit.ly/3EJ2Pmr ·      Montefiore's HARP Celebrates 15 Years - https://bit.ly/4iE0TcX ·      Montefiore Health System - https://bit.ly/3Gw5nVA

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) are novel therapeutic agents designed to target specific tumor markers with potent anticancer drugs. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is dedicated to providing up-to-date information on ADC treatment management. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Nancy Mallett, a patient advocate, to discuss the patient's perspective and experience receiving treatment for gynecologic cancers, particularly with ADCs such as mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx. “[Providers] giving me the information and allowing us to decide together, instead of just telling me, makes me feel more cared about and that I'm not just a number, I'm a person. They care about what I think, and look at my life and what it can do for me.” – Nancy Mallett   Nancy Mallett Patient Advocate   Resources:  FDA Approval Summary: Mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx for FRα-positive, Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer - https://bit.ly/4is00nD  Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO): Gynecologic Cancer Resources for Patients and Their Families - https://bit.ly/4jpYaoP  ASCO: Antibody-Drug Conjugates in Gynecologic Cancer - https://bit.ly/42GP5k8  Society of Gynecologic Oncology Journal Club: The ABCs of ADCs (Antibody drug Conjugates) - https://bit.ly/42U2962  Antibody-Drug Conjugates in Gynecologic Cancers - https://bit.ly/4cLYECZ    Funder Statement  This program is supported by AbbVie.   

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) face poorer cancer outcomes and experiences compared with younger and older patients, and they historically have been lost between pediatric and adult models of oncology care. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is committed to providing up-to-date guidance on treating AYA patients with cancer to improve their outcomes. In this episode of CANCER BUZZ, a team from the University of North Carolina (UNC) AYA Oncology Program shares how it's meeting the unique needs of this patient population by providing developmentally appropriate cancer care through a multidisciplinary approach, including clinical trial access and interactive infusion space; sharing resources where AYAs need additional support; and developing education about fertility and the short- and long-term impacts of cancer. “We talk about things like sleep, mental health, diet, exercise, knowing all of those aspects of life have been impacted by cancer and its treatment, and in order to have the best quality of life and best outcomes, we need to pay attention to all of those aspects of an AYA survivors' life.” – Andrew Smitherman, MD, MS “We know that AYAs are one of the most underinsured or uninsured populations in the United States, and so that means often they are at least initially facing these diagnoses without any insurance at all to help defray the costs.” – Jacob Stein, MD, MPH “My approach [for talking about long term effects] is that patients want to be able to have the opportunity to receive information.” – Alison Manikowski, PsyD Read the full article here. Guests Andrew Smitherman, MD, MSc AYA Medical Director Pediatric Oncologist UNC Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer CenterChapel Hill, NC   Jacob Stein, MD, MPH AYA Oncology Liaison Medical Oncologist UNC Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer CenterChapel Hill, NC   Alison Manikowski, PsyDAYA Program Pediatric Psychologist UNC Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Program Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer CenterChapel Hill, NC Resources:  UNC AYA Cancer Program ACCC AYA Resources

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) disproportionately impacts underserved and minority populations, compounded by systemic barriers in care. These populations face increased risk factors yet often experience delayed diagnoses and limited access to specialists, leading to later-stage detection. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Karen S. Waldrop, BSN, RN, OCN, ONN-CG, a GI oncology nurse navigator at UAB O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer, and Henry Rendon, a patient diagnosed with HCC in June 2023. Together, they share insights on the vital role of multidisciplinary teams and how nurse navigators can mitigate access barriers by improving patient outreach, facilitating access to care, and guiding patients through the complexities of the health care system.  “Karen, my nurse navigator, knew everything I was going through. She made sure everything was coordinated and ran smoothly. She communicated clearly and thoroughly every time. I never had to second-guess what was happening. She made sure I was prepared, not just once, but every step of the way.” - Henry Rendon, patient guest with HCC “At our institution, we have a clinic where the patient can see a medical oncologist, a liver medical physician, an interventional radiology specialist, a pharmacist… the whole gamut. If they need social work, we'll pull in social work. If they need palliative care, we'll pull in palliative care. And that's in one visit. For folks with transportation issues or those who live far away, it's truly the best way to get care.” - Karen S. Waldrop, BSN, RN, OCN, ONN-CG   Karen S. Waldrop, BSN, RN, OCN, ONN-CG GI Oncology Nurse Navigator UAB O'Neal Comprehensive Cancer Birmingham, Alabama   Henry Rendon Patient Guest, diagnosed with HCC Helena, Alabama   Additional Resources: Multidisciplinary HCC Care Effective Practices in Care Coordination - https://bit.ly/4lHTpbN HCC Education and Protocols to Advance Treatment through Integrated Collaboration - https://bit.ly/42GpatW Understanding practices and gaps in multidisciplinary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) care within the community oncology setting - https://bit.ly/3XT4k84 Building Multidisciplinary Care Capacity for People Impacted by Hepatocellular Carcinoma - https://bit.ly/44rgFUS  

Raising awareness about disparities in cancers impacting women, screening among Indigenous populations, and barriers to accessing care is essential. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is dedicating to providing up-to-date information on approaches to improving women's health screening, education, and prevention in Indigenous subpopulations. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Tricia Numan, MD, assistant professor of pathology at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center about geographical challenges to accessing care and strategies for culturally tailored approaches for indigenous women.    “[There] are some major things that have happened in not so recent past to native populations, and I think it's really important for health care providers to take that recent history into account when they're caring for native patients.” – Tricia Numan, MD   “If you want to culturally tailor your health care I think that it's very important, because it's not a one size fits all.”   Tricia Numan, MD Gynecologic Pathologist Assistant Professor of Pathology Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Department of Indigenous Cancer Health Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center Buffalo, New York Resources:  Roswell Park Department of Indigenous Cancer Health Oncology Issues Roswell Park Article  

Personalized therapeutic approaches for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), guided by shared decision-making, can improve outcomes by aligning treatment with a patient's unique clinical profile, preferences and goals. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is dedicated to providing up-to-date information on CLL management and treatment strategies. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Christopher Nelson, ACNP, MBA, certified oncology nurse practitioner at Avera Medical Group Oncology & Hematology, to explore the importance of shared decision-making and patient communication in CLL. Additionally, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Meghan McGrath, MSN, RN, AGACNP, clinical trial nurse navigator at The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), who discusses ways to incorporate clinical trials in the shared decision-making process and LLS services that are available to support patients and providers.   “You do what the patient feels is best, you know, you look at what their values are and what's important to them, and then you try to find a therapy that fits those.” – Christopher Nelson, ACNP   “I think it's really important to try and make every patient aware of the fact that a clinical trial could be right for them at any stage in the game.” – Meghan McGrath, MSN, RN, AGACNP   Christopher Nelson, ACNP  Oncology Nurse Practitioner   Avera Medical Group Oncology & Hematology  Aberdeen, SD    Meghan McGrath, MSN, RN, AGACNP    Clinical Trial Nurse Navigator   The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS)      Resources:   ·      ACCC Treatment for Double-Exposed CLL - https://bit.ly/4iSmfV1 ·      ACCC CLL Resources - https://bit.ly/3E4QqZK ·      LLS Clinical Trial Support Center - https://bit.ly/42sqGQk ·      ACCC CLL Video Series - https://bit.ly/4la4li5

With the ongoing workforce challenges in oncology, health systems must develop strategies to support their pipeline of health care employees. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is committed to providing resources and support on managing this challenge and strengthen strategic partnerships. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Laura Matthews, MBA, MPH, FACHE, vice president and administrator at Inova Schar Cancer, to discuss the strategies to address these workforce needs through local partnerships and early career recruitment. Ms. Matthews highlights opportunities to collaborate with high school programs, undergraduate students, and community colleges to create opportunities for students to gain experience and introduce health career options.   “Don't let geography limit you in terms of being creative about the different educational partners you may want to work with.” – Laura Matthews “For anyone who is looking to replicate some of these programs: bring your creativity, bring your innovation. Many of these, if not all of these, were ideas that came from leaders and team members who saw an opportunity to better grow our workforce.” – Laura Matthews   Laura Matthews, MBA, MPH, FACHE Vice President and Administrator Inova Schar Cancer Inova Health System Falls Church, VA   Resources: Pipeline Partners Inova Schar Cancer

There is an increasing awareness of the importance of screening for social drivers of health (SDOH) for patients with cancer. Social drivers like income level and stable housing can impact a patient's access to quality cancer care. To help multidisciplinary teams in oncology care screen for SDOH, ACCC has developed a screening tool to help identify potential SDOH factors that may hinder access to cancer treatment and clinical trial participation. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Richard Martin III, MD, MPH, medical director of Health Equity and Community Engagement at Tennessee Oncology and Dana McDaniel, DNP, FNP-C, AOCNP, director of Oncology and Clinical Research at Mosaic Life Care about their experiences using the screening tool as part of ACCC's pilot program. “Everybody's role with SDOH is different, but really, everyone has a role with SDOH assessment—taking the time to sit down with the patient, ask the questions, listen to them, and then connect them to the appropriate services so that we can tailor their care and ultimately improve quality.” - Dana McDaniel, DNP, FNP-C, AOCNP   “Being able to capture data around patients' interest [in clinical trials], their awareness and their barriers, and being able to cross reference those 3 things to better focus strategies around [trial] enrollment…that's just going to be gold as far as information to help you know where to go…and when that patient's ready, to help get them onto a trial.” – Richard Martin III, MD, MPH   Richard Martin III, MD, MPH Medical Director, Health Equity and Community Engagement Tennessee Oncology Nashville, Tennessee   Dana McDaniel, DNP, FNP-C, AOCNP Director of Oncology and Clinical Research Mosaic Life Care St. Joseph, Missouri   Additional Resources:   ACCC SDOH Screening Tool (English) (https://bit.ly/4ikNPdb) ACCC SDOH Screening Tool (Spanish) (https://bit.ly/4ixsixA) ACCC SDOH Resource Library (https://bit.ly/4bJtDz6) Improving Equitable Access to Care: Unpacking Medicare's New Documentation, Coding, and Billing Requirements (https://bit.ly/4bKlMRU)

Dermatologic toxicities associated with oncology treatment can significantly impact quality of life and treatment adherence for patients with breast cancer. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is committed to providing up-to-date guidance on managing these dermatologic side effects to enhance clinical outcomes. In this episode of CANCER BUZZ, Allison Gordon, MD, a supportive oncodermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, discusses the dermatologic toxicities associated with breast cancer treatment. Dr Gordon explores preventive measures that oncologists can implement early in the treatment course and offers alternative resources for oncology clinicians when an oncodermatologist referral is not feasible. Additionally, she highlights capivasertib, a recently approved antineoplastic drug, and reviews its associated cutaneous adverse events, along with supportive care and management strategies. Thank you to AstraZeneca for their support of this program.   Allison Gordon, MD Dermatologist Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center New York, NY   “Because many of these medications can cause dry skin, which can be debilitating for patients... [we recommend] using a thick ointment or cream moisturizer on their damp skin after they shower... it doesn't have to be anything expensive... I always recommend that to all patients regardless of what treatment they're on.”– Allison Gordon, MD    Additional Reading/Sources  ACCC Supportive Care Strategies for Dermatologic Toxicities Related to Cancer Therapies education program (https://www.accc-cancer.org/home/learn/comprehensive-cancer-care-services/dermatologic-toxicities?)   Targeted Therapy Side Effects – American Cancer Society  (https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/treatment-types/targeted-therapy/side-effects.html)   Oncodermatology: Advancing the Science and Care of Cancer Patients and Survivors (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10569770/)   Dermatologic Adverse Events of Systemic Anticancer Therapies: Cytotoxic Chemotherapy, Targeted Therapy, and Immunotherapy (https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/EDBK_289911)   Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) Oncodermatolgy Study Group (https://mascc.org/resources/mascc-guidelines/)   Guidelines for the Prevention and Treatment of Radiation-Induced Skin Reactions (https://mascc.org/resources/mascc-guidelines/)   Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Dermatological Toxicities Related to Anticancer Agents (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33248228/)

Live this week from the ACCC 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Center Business Summit (AMCCBS), CANCER BUZZ talks the role of AI in oncology with ACCC President Elect Douglas Flora, MD, LSSBB, FACCC.   Guest: Douglas Flora, MD, LSSBB, FACCC ACCC President Elect Executive Medical Director, Oncology Services St. Elizabeth Healthcare Edgewood, KY Editor-in-Chief, AI in Precision Oncology   Resources: How AI Will Shape Oncology Care The Transformative Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Cancer Care Delivery

Live this week from the ACCC 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Center Business Summit (AMCCBS), CANCER BUZZ shares insights from Yulonda Greene, MBA, BSN, RN, OCN, Lindsey Causey, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC, AOCNP, and John D. Shevock, FACHE, FACMPE.   Guest: Yulonda Greene, MBA, BSN, RN, OCN Director, Patient Care Service Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation   Lindsey Causey, DNP, APRN, ANP-BC, AOCNP Cone Health | Hematology and Oncology CHMG Executive Council—Chair   John D. Shevock, FACHE, FACMPE Senior Director Of Operations Oncology Service Line Executive Director Bayhealth Cancer Institute   Resources: AMCCBS Capitol Hill Day AMCCBS Keynote Address and Award Ceremony AMCCBS Women's Health and Oncology

Live this week from the ACCC 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Center Business Summit (AMCCBS), CANCER BUZZ speaks with ACCC President Una Hopkins, DNP, MSN, BSN, FNP-BC, NE-BC, FACCC, RN, on the first day of her 2025-2026 presidency.    Guest: Una Hopkins, DNP, MSN, BSN, FNP-BC, NE-BC, FACCC, RN ACCC President Director for Research and Evidence Based Practice Montefiore Medical Center Bronx, NY   Resources: ACCC Biography DNP Alum Advances Healthcare Through Clinical Research 2025-2026 President's Theme

Live this week from the ACCC 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Center Business Summit (AMCCBS), CANCER BUZZ shares insights from ACCC President Nadine J. Barrett, PhD, MA, MS, and ASCO President Robin Zon, MD, FASCO, FACP, on challenges in cancer care, leadership strategies, AI, and more.    Guest: Nadine J. Barrett, PhD, MA, MS Senior Associate Dean for Community Engagement and Equity in Research Wake Forest University School of Medicine Atrium Health   Robin Zon, MD, FASCO, FACP President, American Society of Clinical Oncology Physician Emeritus, Michiana Hematology Oncology   Resources: Interview with Dr. Barrett Reimagining Community Engagement and Equity in Cancer

Live this week from the ACCC 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Center Business Summit (AMCCBS), CANCER BUZZ highlights ACCC President Nadine J. Barrett, PhD, MA, MS, on her tenure as ACCC's 2024-2025 President.    Guest: Nadine J. Barrett, PhD, MA, MS Senior Associate Dean for Community Engagement and Equity in Research Wake Forest University School of Medicine Atrium Health   Resources: President's Theme 2024-2025

Live this week from the ACCC 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Center Business Summit (AMCCBS), CANCER BUZZ speaks with Wade Swenson, MD, MPH, MBA, FACP about Capitol Hill Day and how engaging in advocacy positively impacts oncology.   Guest: Wade T. Swenson, MD, MPH, MBA, FACP Medical Director Lakewood Health System Staples, MN   Resources: ACCC OSS Advocacy Engagement Initiative ACCC Legislative Action Center

Live this week from the ACCC 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Center Business Summit (AMCCBS), CANCER BUZZ speaks with Mandi Pratt-Chapman, PhD, the winner of this year's Clinical Research Award, about how her research has impacted oncology and paved the way for better patient care.     Guest: Mandi Pratt-Chapman, PhD Associate Professor of Medicine for the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences Associate Professor of Prevention and Community Health for the GW Milken Institute School of Public Health Associate Center Director, Community Outreach, Engagement and Equity The George Washington (GW) Cancer Center   Resources: Clinical Research Award (https://www.accc-cancer.org/home/about/awards/clinical-research-award?)

Bladder cancer remains a prevalent disease with significant disparities in care, particularly in underserved populations. To address this, ACCC launched a national quality improvement initiative in three phases: 1. assessment and preparation, 2. action plan implementation, and 3. monitoring for continuous improvement. Dr. Samuel Washington, from the University of California, San Francisco, discussed the initiative's early findings, highlighting site-specific approaches.   Sustainability was a key consideration, ensuring a balance between short-term wins and long-term impact. Action plans need to be both ambitious and practical to drive meaningful change. Continuing outcome monitoring will refine strategies, and the initiative could serve as a replication model in other clinical settings and cancer types. An important opportunity exists to expand multidisciplinary collaboration to include patient advocates and ensure the long-term integration of these improvements. Despite varied site objectives, all participants were committed to improving cancer care. This initiative highlights the power of structured, collaborative efforts to address disparities and enhance patient outcomes.   "Now we have an opportunity to bring in patients and advocates… and expand this type of work in a structured way to other cancers and other institutions, other sites in an already national program." – Dr. Samuel Washington   “The feasibility of the program overall was important, the fact that we could engage leadership champions at the clinic level and then multi-disciplinary team buy-in at each institution with this goal across oncology, urology, practices, radiation oncology, nursing, to all come together for each of these visits to help develop an action plan, it is something that I have not seen much of in recent years." – Dr. Samuel Washington   Samuel L. Washington III, MD, MAS  Assistant Professor of Urology,   Goldberg-Benioff Endowed Professorship in Cancer Biology  University of California, San Francisco  San Francisco, CA    Additional Resources: Implementing Shared Decision-Making in Bladder Cancer Care eCourse (https://courses.accc-cancer.org/products/implementing-shared-decision-making-in-bladder-cancer-care?_gl=1*1l9u2ab*_ga*MTU3NjkxMTU5Mi4xNzM2MTc4MTQy*_ga_HW05FVSTWC*MTczODk0Mjk3OS41MC4xLjE3Mzg5NDMyOTAuNTUuMC4w#tab-product_tab_overview) Understanding and Mitigating Disparities in Bladder Cancer (https://www.accc-cancer.org/docs/projects/bladder-cancer/understanding-and-mitigating-disparities-in-bladder-cancer-care.pdf?sfvrsn=a2630102_2&) Providing Equitable Care for Patients With Bladder Cancer (https://www.accc-cancer.org/docs/projects/bladder-cancer/accc_bladdercancer_8-5x11_patientexperienceresorce_interactive.pdf?sfvrsn=934efb33_2&) Effective Practices in Bladder Cancer Care: Multispecialty Clinics (https://www.accc-cancer.org/docs/projects/bladder-cancer/accc_bladdercancer_1_multispecialtyclinics.pdf?sfvrsn=e4cf453f_2&)

Members of the Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) are preparing for a day of cancer care advocacy on Capitol Hill during its 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Center Business Summit (AMCCBS) in Washington, DC between March 5-7, 2025. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Nicole Tapay, JD, director of Cancer Care Delivery & Health Policy at ACCC about key policy issues that members will address during ACCC's Capitol Hill Day, including drug shortages, Medicare reimbursement for patient navigation, and concerns over the Inflation Reduction Act's impact on provider reimbursement for infused medications. “[Capitol] Hill Day is a chance for cancer care providers to directly engage in the policymaking process—it's not part of their normal day jobs, but they find it incredibly rewarding." –  Nicole Tapay, JD   "When cancer care providers visit the Hill in person, it's a very valuable part of the process; they share firsthand experiences that truly illustrate the impact of policy decisions." –  Nicole Tapay, JD   Nicole Tapay, JD Director, Cancer Care Delivery & Health Policy Association of Cancer Care Centers   Additional Resources ACCC Capitol Hill Day (https://www.accc-cancer.org/home/attend/capitol-hill-day) 2024 Policy Wrap-Up – Oncology Issues, Vol.40, No 1, 2025 (https://journals.accc-cancer.org/view/2024-policy-wrap-up?_gl=1*ael8au*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3Mzg2OTM3MDUuQ2owS0NRaUFrb2U5QmhEWUFSSXNBSDg1Y0RPekNiaW1WYkJ0TGw1dEtwV0s3ZzFtbWZ3b0tFMkxENTUwMVRkZGZUQzByOUFCS1FUeVpVSWFBa3dvRUFMd193Y0I.*_ga*MTIxNzU0NTA2MC4xNjkxNzY0Mjg0*_ga_HW05FVSTWC*MTc0MDA2NjkzMS41Ni4xLjE3NDAwNjc2NzEuNTIuMC4w) Register for the 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Care Business Summit (https://events.accc-cancer.org/event/90b42ca3-a5fd-4f87-a1eb-fe4e00d2e9de/overview?RefId=LIP&utm_campaign=2025AM&utm_campaign=CMI%20%7C%20CMA-22-ACCC010%20%7C%20AMCCBS%2025%20%7C%20EV&utm_medium=paid&utm_medium=ppc&utm_source=google&utm_source=adwords&utm_term=accc%20annual%20meeting&hsa_acc=3682411462&hsa_cam=22029487582&hsa_grp=175156250827&hsa_ad=725387102374&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-2265122107589&hsa_kw=accc%20annual%20meeting&hsa_mt=p&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAn9a9BhBtEiwAbKg6fhOf1fzDdOci-BU8AdIjtS9Y9domwiVkSlasNVK7jVaYE2yv799cHRoC_k4QAvD_BwE) View Agenda for the 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Care Business Summit (https://agenda.mjhlifesciences.com/agenda/accc/e02ac0e0-7646-4ff5-b872-e3e2ee8b7e22?_gl=1*1k3a1eu*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NDAwMDE0ODcuQ2p3S0NBaUFuOWE5QmhCdEVpd0FiS2c2ZmhPZjFmekRkT2NpLUJVOEFkSWp0UzlZOWRvbXdpVmtTbGFzTlZLN2pWYVlFMnl2Nzk5Y0hSb0NfazRRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_ga*MTU3NjkxMTU5Mi4xNzM2MTc4MTQy*_ga_HW05FVSTWC*MTc0MDAwMDc4NS43Mi4xLjE3NDAwMDE0ODguNDQuMC4w)

Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) have the potential to transform cancer treatment and are being actively integrated into community oncology practices. To support oncology practices as they introduce BsAbs into their treatment protocols, the Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) has developed a comprehensive blueprint for this process. This resource highlights key strategies, best practices, and considerations for successful implementation. It gives guidance on capacity building, care coordination, and adverse event management, reflecting ACCC's commitment to providing education and expanding access to this innovative treatment for patients with cancer. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Donald Moore, PharmD, clinical oncology pharmacy manager at Atrium Health Levine Cancer, about the role of bispecific antibodies in oncology care and unique challenges associated with interdisciplinary collaboration. Dr Moore also discusses how the new Blueprint is designed to empower cancer practices to optimize the rollout of these innovative therapies.     “I think that the blueprint really nicely describes and delineates some high-level roles and responsibilities of a community academic partnership and how both sites can collaborate to deliver care to their patients” – Donald Moore   “Ultimately, my hope is that the blueprint, along with some of the additional resources provided with it, will be helpful in bringing these new therapies closer to home for all of our patients... improving the access to care for this emerging drug class.” – Donald Moore   Donald Moore, PharmD, BCPS, BCOP, DPLA, FCCP  Clinical Oncology Pharmacy Manager  Division of Pharmacy   Atrium Health Levine Cancer  Charlotte, NC    Resources:   ACCC Best Practices for Expanding Access to BsAbs  - https://www.accc-cancer.org/home/learn/precision-medicine/treatment/bispecific-antibodies/best-practices-bispecific-antibodies   ACCC Operational Insights in Delivery of BsAbs - https://www.accc-cancer.org/home/learn/precision-medicine/treatment/bispecific-antibodies/bispecific-antibodies-in-solid-tumors   ASCO Use of BsAbs in Community Practices - https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.2024.42.16_suppl.e13575   AJMC Obstacles to Optimal Transition Between Academic and Community Centers - https://www.ajmc.com/view/obstacles-to-optimal-transitions-of-care-between-academic-and-community-settings-when-utilizing-bispecific-antibodies   ASH Multidisciplinary Provider Insights for Promotion of BsAbs in the Community - https://ashpublications.org/blood/article/138/Supplement%201/4033/481457/Multidisciplinary-Provider-Insights-to-Promote    

The imPROVE study aims to bridge the gap in patient-reported outcomes (PRO) data for Black women with breast cancer by enhancing engagement with tailored electronic PROs (ePROs) and partnering with community leaders to address barriers and ensure accessibility and relevance in community cancer care settings. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Manraj Kaur, PhD, investigator and lead faculty for research and innovation at Patient-Reported Outcomes, Value, and Experience (PROVE) center at Mass General Brigham and Andrea Pusic, MD, chief of division of plastic and reconstructive surgery, director of PROVE center at Mass General Brigham, and professor of surgery at Harvard Medical School about the imPROVE study's efforts to enhance Black women's engagement in ePROs in breast cancer treatment.  Dr. Kaur sheds light on strategies to improve technology accessibility for Black women in their cancer care center by providing iPads and refined usability features on the imPROVE app. Dr. Pusic highlights imPROVE implementation results at five community cancer centers, including utilizing local champions and equitable access to resources.   “When we make sure Black women are included, we gain a more accurate picture of health, we can design better care, and then we take a real step towards closing the health equity gap.” – Manraj Kaur   “The imPROVE study is all about increasing accessibility of patient-reported outcome measurements to Black breast cancer patients receiving care in community cancer centers.” – Andrea Pusic   Manraj Kaur, PhD   Investigator, Lead Faculty for Research and Innovation Patient-Reported Outcomes Value Experience (PROVE) Center  Brigham and Women's Hospital  Boston, MA    Andrea Pusic, MD  Chief of Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery  Director, PROVE Center  Brigham and Women's Hospital  Professor of Surgery  Harvard Medical School  Boston, MA    Resources: ACCC imPROVE Study Blog - https://www.accc-cancer.org/acccbuzz/blog-post-template/accc-buzz/2024/06/18/the-power-of-patient-reported-outcome-measures-to-community-cancer-centers? Harvard/BWH PROVE Center - https://prove.bwh.harvard.edu/current_project/improve-breast-cancer-care/

In anticipation of the 51st Annual Meeting and Cancer Center Business Summit (AMCCBS), ACCCBuzz spoke with this year's keynote speaker, Nick Webb, who gave some insight into what AMCCBS attendees can expect from his session. As a health care futurist, Nick's consulting practice is centered around the future of health care and trends that are both already present and fast-approaching. One trend Nick plans to speak to in his keynote is hyper-consumerism and how it is impacting patients' experience with health care. Namely, patients today want customization, transparency, and humanity—among other things. They want relationships that are more than just the transaction of health care. Nick will dive into best practices to create experiential value for patients, as well as ways to leverage technological innovations like artificial intelligence to take the pressure off providers and free up their time so they can engage and create meaningful relationships with patients.  Guest:   Nick Webb Health Care Futurist Author, Chaotic Change: Embracing Chaos to Drive Innovation and Growth  Quote:   “[Patients today] want humanity. They want the relationship to be more than just the transaction of health care. The best organizations...are going to make the transition from the transaction of health care to the experiential value of health care.”  Register for the 51st AMCCBS and view the full agenda on the ACCC website.   Additional Resources:   ePROs: Lighting the Way to Improved Outcomes Efficiency and Patient Experience -- Oncology Issues   The Future of the Patient Experience — [MINI PODCAST] EP 137  Healthcare Burnout: An Epidemic Among Oncology Nurses  A Toxic Mixture: Burnout in Oncology Pharmacy  2024 Trending Now in Cancer Care Part 2 – Oncology Issues 

ACCC's Oncology Reimbursement Meetings (ORMs) assist members in navigating the frequent changes in oncology reimbursement and regulations through expert-led sessions in different regions across the US. In addition to bringing attendees up to speed on annual updates to the revenue cycle, a wide range of related issues that can impact oncology reimbursement are brought to the table, including navigation reimbursement, expanding existing financial programs, and providing important services for patients. The dates and locations for the Spring 2025 in-person ORMs have been announced, with more information to follow. Guest:  John J. Montville, MBA, FACHE, FACMPE, FACCC, COA Executive Director, Oncology Service Line Mercy Health – Paducah Cancer Center Quote:  “These meetings have true takeaways. It's not just about networking [although] that is important in this industry...You walk away with pages of notes of things you want to bring back to your program to make it better.” For more information about ACCC's upcoming Oncology Reimbursement Meetings in 2025, visit the ACCC website. Additional Resources:  Reimbursement Changes Seek to Reduce Disparities in Access to Cancer Care Breaking Down Principal Illness Navigation Services: Helping Oncology Providers and Administrators Document, Code, and Bill for Patient Navigation Services The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Will Pay for Patient Navigation—Now What – Oncology Issues Virtual Fall 2024 Oncology Reimbursement Meeting

Synopsis: Adverse reactions involving the skin, nails, and hair are common among patients undergoing treatment for cancer and are often underreported and overlooked. These reactions directly impact patient quality of life and may be the reason for interruptions in lifesaving antineoplastic treatment. To address these toxicities, the Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is leading an initiative that aims to educate providers and other cancer care team members about the optimal management of dermatologic side effects.     In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Julie Ryan Wolf, PhD, MPH and C.J.G. (Corina) van den Hurk, PhD, the chair and vice chair of the Oncodermatology Study Group at the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) about common oncodermatological toxicities including radiation dermatitis, hair loss, and nail changes unique to EGFR-inhibitors. Also discussed are strategies to increase provider collaboration to intervene at an early stage to improve quality of life for patients receiving cancer treatment.   “If we have symptom monitoring on a regular basis throughout the course of treatment, we'll be able to intervene sooner… helping improve [patient] quality of life” – Julie Ryan Wolf, PhD, MPH   “In effect, almost each patient has a dermatologic side effect at the end of the treatment, or has experienced that during the treatment, and they are all very interfering.” – CJG (Corina) van den Hurk, PhD                     Julie Ryan Wolf, PhD, MPH   Chair, Oncodermatology Study Group  Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC)  Associate Professor, Department of Dermatology, Department of Radiation Oncology   University of Rochester Medical Center   Rochester, NY      CJG (Corina) van den Hurk, PhD   Vice Chair, Oncodermatology Study Group  Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC)  Senior Researcher, Santeon Hospitals   Netherlands         Thank you to Johnson & Johnson for their support of this program.     Additional Reading/Sources     Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) Home  Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) Oncodermatology Study Group   MASCC Study Group Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines   ACCC Supportive Care Strategies for Dermatologic Toxicities Related to Cancer Therapies  Oncology Issues – Supportive Oncodermatology: Addressing dermatologic adverse events associated with oncologic therapies  Dermatologic Adverse Events of Systemic Anticancer Therapies: Cytotoxic Chemotherapy, Targeted Therapy, and Immunotherapy  Oncodermatology: Advancing the Science and Care of Cancer Patients and Survivors  Supportive oncodermatology-a narrative review of its utility and the way forward =

As a medical oncologist working in a rural private practice in Australia, Dr. Christopher Steer expresses that one of the biggest challenges in cancer care is a limited workforce. Lacking personnel at every level of cancer care makes it difficult to provide high-quality, timely care, especially in a rural region. In this episode, Dr. Steer also mentions the importance of advocacy work in improving patient care. A particularly salient issue in Australia is the lack of coverage for cancer therapeutics by private insurance companies—which affects about 40% of patients with cancer in the country. Dr. Steer emphasizes the need for patients and providers alike to use their voices to make meaningful improvements in cancer care. Guest:  Christopher Steer, MBBS, FRACP Medical Oncologist, Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre Associate Professor University of New South Wales Adjunct Professor John Richards Centre for Rural Ageing Research La Trobe University Quote:  “Adequate assessment yields appropriate treatment. Ask the patients. Personalize their care. That will give them the best [outcomes].” Read more global perspectives from the international panelists who spoke at the October ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference in this ACCCBuzz blog. Additional Resources:  NOC Preview: Financial Advocacy Guidelines to Mitigate Financial Toxicity - [MINI PODCAST] Providing Comprehensive Financial Advocacy Services in Rural America Improving Access to Clinical Trials for Rural Populations #ACCCNOC: Financial Advocacy and Building Sustainable Navigation Virtual Infusion Services: Bringing Cancer Therapies Closer to Rural Patients

The involvement of oncology fellows in state policy and advocacy efforts is essential for enhancing cancer care and advancing research. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) provides up-to-date information and opportunities for oncology advocacy, helping oncologists early in their career to be aware of how to contribute to local, state, and national initiatives. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Katherine Baker, MD, medical director of value-based care and medical oncologist at Tennessee Oncology, to discuss her experience in engaging in advocacy efforts with the American Society of Hematology (ASH), the Community Oncology Alliance (COA), and her current role as a board member on the Tennessee Oncology Practice Society (TOPS) advocacy committee. We also hear from Haley M Simpson, MD, PhD, physician-scientist, Division of Hematology at the University of Colorado, about the direct impact of advocacy on patient care.   “To me, forming coalitions through these [national] organizations is essential for driving meaningful, long lasting policy change, as collective voices are often much stronger and more impactful than individual efforts on your own.” -Katherine Baker, MD   “By getting involved in advocacy and policy earlier in your career, it has all the more ability to amplify the impact for patients.” -Haley Simpson, MD, PhD   Katherine Baker, MD, MMHC Medical Director of Value-Based Care and Medical Oncologist Tennessee Oncology Nashville, TN   Haley M. Simpson, MD, PhD Physician-Scientist, Division of Hematology University of Colorado Aurora, CO   This podcast is part of the Oncology State Societies (OSS) Policy and Advocacy program, made possible through the support of Johnson & Johnson.   Please visit your state society's website for potential fellowship opportunities, which you can find here. For any questions or to learn about upcoming events and opportunities, feel free to email Amanda Impellizzeri directly at aimpellizzeri@accc-cancer.org.   Resources ACCC and OSS Advocacy Engagement Initiative  ACCC Legislative Action Center  NCCN Policy Fellows Program  ASCO Advocacy Resources  ASCO Fellows Resources

The delivery of cancer care in Nigeria is impeded firstly by a lack of infrastructure, with a low number of hospital beds and skilled staff across the care pathway—an issue which has been compounded by the migration of skilled staff out of sub-Saharan Africa and to more developed countries. A lack of specialized equipment, such as radiotherapy machines, and the prohibitive costs of delivering cancer care are significant challenges as well. According to Dr. Modupe Elebute-Odunsi, challenges at the governmental level play a role as well, because in addition to a lack of skilled staff, there is a lack of developed cancer centers and a lack of funding, all of which prevent patients from accessing high-quality care. This great need inspired Dr. Elebute-Odunsi to establish the Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre and Specialist Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria, which offers all the treatments patients need across the care continuum in one place. Guest: Modupe Elebute-Odunsi, MBBS, MD, FRCP, FRCPath Founder/CEO Marcelle Ruth Cancer Centre and Specialist Hospital Founder/Chair Board of Trustees Women In Healthcare Network Lagos, Nigeria Quote:  “We're a one-stop comprehensive cancer center...When patients walk in the door, they can [receive] all the treatments they require [here] from beginning to end.” Read more global perspectives from the international panelists who spoke at the October ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference in this ACCCBuzz blog. Additional Resources:  The Study of High-Cost Oncology Patients to Improve Care & Curb Costs – Oncology Issues Mobile App Eases Patient Cost-of-Care Conversations [PODCAST] Ep 03: Why Comprehensive Cancer Care Services Matter Providing Comprehensive Financial Advocacy Services in Rural America Navigation: A Critical Component in a Comprehensive Approach to Dismantling Health Inequities – Oncology Issues

Raising awareness about sarcoma is essential to reducing treatment delays and preventing misdiagnoses of this rare cancer with over 100 subtypes. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is dedicated to providing up-to-date information on sarcoma management and the unique challenges associated with diagnosis and treatment in community settings. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Richard Riedel, MD, professor of medicine at Duke Cancer Institute, to explore the critical resources needed for sarcoma care, including psychosocial support and the financial difficulties often faced by patients. Dr Riedel also discusses the future of treatment options in community-based settings and the importance of collaboration between community providers and academic/specialty centers. Additionally, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Katie Wintergerst, a sarcoma patient, who shares her personal journey and the challenges she encountered on her path to diagnosis.   “It's critically important to partner with centers with disease-specific expertise, academic centers, for example, that are well-positioned to partner with community-based providers in providing optimal care for patients.” – Richard Riedel, MD   “What I've had to become comfortable with ... is that clinical trials can be tricky and they can be scary, but in the world of sarcoma, there haven't been a lot of new products FDA-approved for treatment. Clinical trials is where the work is going on.” -Katie Wintergerst   Richard Riedel, MD Professor of Medicine Duke Cancer Institute Durham, NC   Katie Wintergerst Sarcoma Patient   Resources: ACCC Sarcoma Resources for Providers and Patients SFA Clinical Trials Resource Center Sarcoma Treatment Centers

Like many nations across the world, 1 of the biggest challenges in oncology facing Sweden is a growing number of patients with cancer, including a large subset of elderly patients and those with comorbidities. In this episode, Dr. Mef Nilbert also explains that data sharing issues with other countries in Europe makes collaboration difficult. Two areas of great success, however, are prevention and early detection, with approximately 85%-90% of Sweden's population vaccinated against HPV. According to Dr. Nilbert, the simple success story is that this vaccination is offered for free in schools to all boys and girls at age 13. This achievement along with continuously improving hereditary cancer diagnostics are exciting developments that serve as powerful lessons from which other nations can benefit.  Guest:  Mef Nilbert, MD, PhD Professor, Department of Oncology Skåne University Hospital and Lund University Lund, Sweden Quote:  “This is not the time for competition in oncology. It's the time for collaboration, especially if we want to be successful in science, precision medicine, and prevention.” Read more global perspectives from the international panelists who spoke at the October ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference in this ACCCBuzz blog.  Additional Resources:  HPV Vaccination: Engaging Community Partners for Success – Oncology Issues Cancer Crushing Prevention and Early Detection – Oncology Issues Time to Get Screened – Oncology Issues A Comprehensive Cancer Risk Management Clinic for Families With Hereditary Cancer Syndromes – Oncology Issues ACCC Signs Letter in Support of the Reducing Hereditary Cancer Act  

With nearly half the patients the Baheya Foundation for Early Detection and Treatment of Breast Cancer in stage 3 or 4 of the disease, delayed diagnoses are one of the biggest challenges in oncology faced in Egypt today. This both causes patients to present for treatment in more advanced stages of the disease and contributes to a high breast cancer mortality rate in Egypt compared to other developed countries like the US. Dr. Inas Maged Moaz added that studies have noted a 7-month difference between the onset of symptoms and the beginning of treatment, due largely in part to a lack of patient awareness of breast cancer symptoms, a lack of prevention and early detection measures, and failure to self-exam. In response, the Baheya Foundation was created to be an integrated health care center that is specialized in providing services to breast cancer patients all in one location and free of charge, including screening, psychosocial support, and nutritional counseling.   Guest:   Inas Maged Moaz, MD Lecturer of Public Health Medical Coordinator of Baheya Research Center Baheya Foundation for Early Detection and Treatment of Breast Cancer Al Haram, Egypt  Quote:   “Baheya has placed a strong emphasis on our outreach program to reach women all over Egypt to enhance their awareness and education about breast cancer and to catch cases in early stages.”  Read more global perspectives from the international panelists who spoke at the October ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference in this ACCCBuzz blog.   Additional Resources:   Views: The Breast Cancer School for Patients – Oncology Issues  Virtual Reality Brings Patient Education to Life  2023 NMQF Summit: Patient Education to Achieve Health Equity  A Model for Demonstrating Sustainable Outreach for Cancer Screening – Oncology Issues  A One-Stop Breast Clinic Improves Time to Diagnosis and Patient Satisfaction 

Bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) have transformative potential in cancer treatment and can be successfully integrated into community oncology practices. To support this integration, ACCC is committed to providing educational initiatives and support for cancer care teams to optimize care coordination. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Jean Louise Koff, MD, MSc, associate professor of hematology and medical oncology at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, to discuss the impact of bispecific antibodies on cancer treatment outcomes, and the challenges and opportunities of integrating this innovative approach into community oncology practices. Dr. Koff sheds light on the opportunities for future partnerships with academic centers and community oncology sites to ensure there is proper infrastructure and training to safely administer bispecific antibodies.     “We're only at the beginning here; I think that as new bispecific agents are developed, there may be other indications in which they can be used, so it will be a broader population of patients who may end up being eligible to receive these drugs.” -Jean Louise Koff   Jean Louise Koff, MD, MSc  Associate Professor, Hematology and Medical Oncology  Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University  Atlanta, GA    This podcast was developed in connection with APSHO and LRF and made possible with support by Genentech and Johnson & Johnson.   Resources: ASCO Use of BsAbs in Community  AJMC Obstacles to Optimal Transition Between Academic and Community Centers 

As a large country, economic disparities persist as a public health issue in Brazil, with 70% of the population depending on the public health system. According to Dr. Theodora Karnakis, the aging population of patients with cancer is expected to result in a 61% increase of new cancer cases between 2020 and 2040. The type of care received depends heavily on where patients are located, due to the varying allocation of services. Dr. Karnakis emphasized equitable access to high-quality care, thorough cancer prevention efforts, and patient education as priorities in her country. Guest: Theodora Karnakis, PhD Coordinator of Oncogeriatrics Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo-ICESP/FMUSP Coordinator of Oncogeriatrics Hospital SírioLibanês São Paulo, Brazil Quote: “It's very interesting to recognize that in each part of the world, [our situations are different, yet the same]. It's difficult to imagine that our reality is the same in other countries...but at the same time, we learn a lot and find ideas to propose in our country.” Read more global perspectives from the international panelists who spoke at the October ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference in this ACCCBuzz blog. Additional Resources: Quality Improvement Officers: Key Members of the Multidisciplinary Cancer Care Team – Oncology Issues Patient Navigation Services Promote Equitable Access to High-Quality Care Tailoring Education for the Oncology Patient – Oncology Issues ABC's of Health Disparities Reimbursement Changes Seek to Reduce Disparities in Access to Cancer Care

It is crucial that multidisciplinary cancer care teams stay informed about upcoming changes to Medicare Part D under the Inflation Reduction Act. To support this effort, the Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) is committed to providing updated information on health care policy changes, ensuring that both providers and patients are aware of the financial benefits. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Lindsey Greenleaf, JD, MBA, solution leader in federal and state policy at ADVI Health and Pam Traxel, senior vice president of alliance development and philanthropy at American Cancer Society, Cancer Action Network, to discuss the impact of these policy updates. Ms. Greenleaf sheds light on the $2,000 out-of-pocket cap that will take place for Part D patients in 2025 and how future pricing policy could have an effect on drug innovation. Ms. Traxel expands on benefits and challenges involved with providing updates to oncologists on the new Medicare Part D cap, with the goal of ensuring that all patients who could benefit are aware.    “I think the most important thing that oncologists and their practices can do is to make sure that they are providing information to patients about the fact that there is a change that will hopefully allow patients to better afford their cancer care.” -Pam Traxel   “The second key piece of the Inflation Reduction Act related to Part D has to do with Part D benefit redesign, and that is what kicks in January 1, 2025, and that is a very notable, very positive change to the law where we finally have a $2,000 out-of-pocket cap that will be in place for Part D patients. This is a huge win for cancer patients, specifically due to the historically very high out-of-pocket costs for oral cancer drugs.” -Lindsey Greenleaf   Lindsey Greenleaf, JD, MBA  Solution Leader, Federal & State Policy  ADVI Health, LLC  Austin, TX    Pam Traxel  Senior Vice President of Alliance Development and Philanthropy  American Cancer Society, Cancer Action Network  Silver Spring, MD      This podcast was developed in connection with the Oncology State Society Policy Program and made possible with support by Johnson & Johnson.   Resources: ACCC Access, Payment & Reimbursement CMS Medicare Part D Improvements

Immunotherapy and targeted therapies have transformed the way patients are treated and allow more patients than ever before to survive stage IV diagnoses. Other key advancements in oncology being prioritized in Puerto Rico today include early detection and prevention efforts. However, a lack of education, access, and health insurance coverage often prevents community members from timely cancer screenings. The same factors contribute to a lack of diversity in clinical trials, as noted by Dr. Marcia Cruz-Correa. Both these important issues require a community-based approach, through building advisory groups, working with local oncologists, and reaching community members where they are in a way they understand. Guest:  Marcia Cruz-Correa, MD, PhD, AGAF, FASGEExecutive DirectorCentro Comprensivo de Cáncer de la Universidad de PuertoSan Juan, Puerto Rico Quote:  “Less than 5% of patients in the US participate in clinical trials...and less than 5% of that [group] is diverse. That's a huge disadvantage...If you don't include the patients who will eventually be taking the drugs developed by pharmaceutical companies, how do you know it will work for them?” Read more global perspectives from the international panelists who spoke at the October ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference in this ACCCBuzz blog. Additional Resources:  Bridging the Gap: Early Detection of Cancer for the Medically Underserved – Oncology Issues Effective Patient-Provider Communication for Colorectal Cancer Screening Multi-Cancer Early Detection: Legislative Landscape— [PODCAST] EP 99 Examining Clinical Research for Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia 2023 NMQF Summit: Improving Diversity in Cancer Clinical Trials

In both high- and low-income countries, the most common struggles patients with cancer face are largely the same, including financial toxicity from treatment costs, difficulty with transportation to and from appointments, and the impact of treatment on their caregivers and families. Consistently, the greatest barrier to accessing health care in many nations is a lack of insurance coverage, often driving many patients to travel hours away to large centers to get basic oncology care. All health systems work with limited resources to some degree. The challenge faced across the globe is finding the best way to allocate those resources to help the patient population as much as possible. To that end, low-income countries often find ways to reach the same outcomes as high-income countries like the US, at a fraction of the cost, shared today's guest who has practiced medicine in both Mexico and the United States. Guest:  Enrique Soto Pérez de Celis, MD, PhDAssociate Director for Global Oncology University of Colorado Cancer Center Aurora, Colorado Quote:  “For multicultural countries like the US where people come from all over the world…[it's important to] make sure that we are providing care that has cultural humility, that includes the values of their culture and the things that matter to patients. That's what we should try to do: provide patients with care that is personalized to them, their values, their family, and their culture.” Read more global perspectives from the international panelists who spoke at the October ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference in this ACCCBuzz blog. Additional Resources:  Addressing Social Determinants of Health through a Medical-Legal Partnership – Oncology Issues Overcoming Health Disparities through Remote Patient Monitoring — [PODCAST] EP 97 Navigation: A Critical Component in a Comprehensive Approach to Dismantling Health Inequities – Oncology Issues NOC Preview: Financial Advocacy Guidelines to Mitigate Financial Toxicity - [MINI PODCAST] Providing Comprehensive Financial Advocacy Services in Rural America

UCSF Health's Seeking Care Patient Experience Team introduced web self-scheduling to improve fragmented workflows and streamline the process of seeking care from a cancer specialist. Patients now have the option to conveniently self-register and schedule appointments through 2 distinct models: direct scheduling of a new-patient appointment or use of a navigator-led intake appointment. This innovative self-scheduling approach improved the patient experience and contributed to cancer service line growth. Read more about this initiative in “The Evolution of Patient Empowerment: Self-Scheduling New Patient Consultations” in the Volume 39, Number 4 Oncology Issues.   “A lot of our stakeholders felt that patients would not be capable of accurately self-scheduling. [We found] that is not true. We were able to design simplified decision trees for patients to help them have high accuracy selecting the right practice and provider.” —Laurel Bray-Hanin, MA   “Almost 50% of the patients who used our online self-scheduling did so outside of traditional business hours…in evenings and weekends. That's the time when they're able to deal with their medical care. And I think that's pretty striking because typically our call centers and staff who might respond to messages are not available during those hours.”—Laurel Bray-Hanin, MA   Laurel Bray-Hanin, MA Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Cancer Services UCSF Health San Francisco, CA   Resources Improving the Care of Patients Newly Diagnosed With Breast Cancer—Oncology Issues Bedside Scheduling Improves Patient Access—Oncology Issues Patient-Centered Scheduling How Infusion Scheduling is Like a Game of Tetris—Oncology Issues Breast Care ACCESS Program—Oncology Issues

CANCERBUZZ speaks with Dr. Naoto Ueno about his NOC session titled The Hawaiʻi Cancer Consortium: An Equitable Clinical Trials Initiative. Guest:  Naoto T. Ueno, MD, PhD, FACP Director Interim Program Co-Leader, Cancer Biology Program, Translational and Clinical Research University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center Resources: ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference

CANCERBUZZ speaks with Melanie Grant about her NOC session titled Navigating Access and Equity: Providing the Answers That Matter.   Guest:  Melanie Grant, Esq. Staff Attorney Triage Cancer   Resources: ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference  

CANCERBUZZ speaks with guests at the 2024 NOC Gala event about what they are looking for at the conference.    Guests:  Una Hopkins, DNP, MSN, BSN, FNP-BC, NE-BC, FACCC, RN ACCC President-Elect Director for Research and Evidence Based Practice Montefiore Medical Center Bronx, NY   Nadine Barrett, PhD, MA, MS ACCC President Senior Associate Dean, Research Equity and Community Engagement Wake Forest School of Medicine Durham, North Carolina   Russell C. Langan, MD, FACS, FSSO Director of Surgical Oncology RWJBarnabas Health and the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey Jersey City, New Jersey   Brittany McArn, OPN-CG, CPPN ACCC Advisory Committee Financial Navigation Manager, Outpatient Oncology Services FirstHealth of the Carolinas, Inc. Pinehurst, NC   Beau Palin Co-Founder & COO Colla Health    JiaJoyce Conway, DNP, CRNP, AOCNP ACCC Board of Trustees Nurse Practitioner Cancer Care Associates of York York, PA   Resources: ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference

CANCERBUZZ speaks with Terry Keys about his NOC session titled Empowering Partnerships: Enhancing Cancer Research Through Patient Advocacy.  Guest:  Terry Keys Patient Advocacy Manager Staff Senator – President's Advisory Committee University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center Lexington, KY   Resources: ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference

CANCERBUZZ speaks with ACCC President Dr. Nadine Barrett about this year's NOC theme: Realizing Innovation. Listen to what's new in conversations and oncology education in 2024. Guest:  Nadine Barrett, PhD, MA, MS ACCC President Senior Associate Dean, Research Equity and Community Engagement Wake Forest School of Medicine Durham, North Carolina   Resources: ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference

CANCERBUZZ speaks with ACCC's Immediate Past President Dr. Olalekan Ajayi about the international panel held at NOC this year, where cancer care providers from around the world share and learn from common challenges and best practices.    Guest:  Olalekan Ajayi, PharmD, MBA Chief Operating Officer Highlands Oncology Group  Fayetteville, Arkansas   Resources: ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference

CANCERBUZZ speaks with Magbis Nunez Love about her NOC session titled Renacer: Culturally Tailored, Patient-Centered Survivorship Care Improves Access and Outcomes.   Guest:  Magbis Nunez Love, MHR Community Liaison Atrium Health Levine Cancer/Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center Charlotte, NC   Resources: ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference

Discussions from the ACCC 50th AMCCBS held from February 28 to March 1, 2024, were used to develop the 2024 Trending Now in Cancer Care Part 1 and Part 2 reports. Download Part 1 for a look at trends in collaborative care delivery models, community engagement in cancer prevention, oncology workforce challenges, and the provision of comprehensive cancer care services. Download Part 2 for an examination of 4 key topics: artificial and business intelligence technology; EHR integration in precision medicine; payer, manufacturer, and supply chain challenges; and key partnerships in research and clinical trials. Guest: Meagan O' Neill Executive Director Association of Cancer Care Centers   Quote: “[In terms of AI], ACCC starting is with the here and now. So, what's available today that has been proven to save time or reduce burnout or be an effective tool for better patient care, for better access. Those solutions are what we're focused on this year and into 2025 so that we can help our members cut through the noise in this space.” “[Prior authorization] is a very big issue because it takes so much time, and it creates this additional burden for our cancer care team members. And if you look at the impact on patient care, that's really where the conversation needs to be focused because there is a significant and detrimental impact on patient care.” Participate in sessions and discussions that will inform the 2025 Trending Now in Cance Care Delivery report by attending the ACCC 51st Annual Meeting & Cancer Center Business Summit, March 5-7 in Washington, DC. Additional Resources: 2024 Trending Now in Cancer Care: Part 1 2024 Trending Now in Cancer Care: Part 2 2023 Trending Now in Cancer Care: Part 1 2023 Trending Now in Cancer Care Part 2

Staying abreast of recent clinical practice guidelines for the management of relapsed/refractory mantle cell lymphoma can be challenging for providers who may seldom encounter it in community practice. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Jeff Sharman, MD, medical director of hematology research, US Oncology, and director of research, Willamette Valley Cancer Institute, about the role of biomarker testing in guiding treatment decisions and how evidence-based management of treatment-related adverse events can serve this patient population. “Fortunately, treatments such as BTK inhibitors are generally very well tolerated by patients, and there are very few patients who can't take a BTK inhibitor. But as you go up the scale of increasing intensity, such as CAR T-cell, or even allogeneic stem cell transplantation, those are therapies not suitable for patients with more extensive comorbidities.” – Dr. Jeff Sharman, MD   “A collaborative relationship between a community practice and an academic center can be of considerable benefit to a patient, so that as treatment decisions are made, both the physician and patient can feel like they're offering the patient the very best therapy.” – Dr. Jeff Sharman, MD    Jeff Sharman, MD  Medical Director of Hematology Research, US Oncology Director of Research Willamette Valley Cancer Institute Eugene, Oregon    This project is made possible by funding and support provided by Eli Lilly and in collaboration with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Resources Treatment for Relapsed/Refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma Tip Sheet - ACCC  Relapsed/Refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma Educational Video Series: Update on New Therapies: https://vimeo.com/942756449 BTK Inhibitors in MCL: https://vimeo.com/942755401 R/R MCL Case Studies: https://vimeo.com/942754652 BTK Inhibitors Stretch Frontline Approaches in Mantle Cell Lymphoma – Targeted Oncology  Emerging Data Continue to Affect BTK Inhibitor Usage in Mantle Cell Lymphoma - OncLive  HCP Fact Sheet: Facts About CAR T-cell Therapy The CAR T-cell Therapy Process Patient-Caregiver CAR T-cell Therapy Facts Learn About CAR T-cell Therapy Mantle Cell Lymphoma Facts for Patients and Caregivers -The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Designing a health equity playbook starts with a deep understanding of the patients you serve. Successful playbooks have components that build on the patient experience, the protocols that are in place to ensure the cancer program is meeting the unique needs of all its patients, and staff education and and training on how to best serve those different patient populations. When developing a health equity playbook, cancer programs need to break down existing silos and ensure that all key players are involved in developing strategies and identifying how the cancer program is going to use this tool to improve care. Guest: Maria Hernandez, PhD President and COO Impact4Health, LLC   Quote: “Hopefully, we will get to a place in the future where every single health system's strategy for providing the best quality of care always has equity in mind…a hospital system of the future will have in its DNA the ability to look at its operations and understand that health equity must be in everything we do.”  Hear more about how to develop and activate a health equity playbook in the 2-hour ACHE accredited session, More than Words: Leveraging Governance and Partnerships to Advance Health Equity, at the ACCC 41st National Oncology Conference, October 9-11, 2024, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Additional Resources: Healthcare With Community in Its DNA: Exploring Montefiore Health System's Community Health Worker Institute Model Community Engagement: Increasing Access to Supportive Population Health Navigators: An Innovative Approach for Supporting Underserved Patients The Role of Population Health Navigators — [MINI PODCAST] Ep 101 Addressing Social Determinants of Health through a Medical-Legal Partnership — [PODCAST] EP 88

The range of frontline therapy options for mantle cell lymphoma can influence subsequent treatment choices for patients with relapsed or refractory disease. Providers must determine initial treatment based on individual patient characteristics, while also factoring in future treatment options. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Nirav Shah, MD, MSHP, associate professor of medicine at Medical College of Wisconsin and Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCOP, PCOP, FACCC, assistant professor of pharmacy at Mayo Clinic and director of pharmacy at Minnesota Oncology, about shared decision making in the management of relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma.  “The key to all of this is good collaboration between the community and their affiliates… their partners and academics, or tertiary referral centers, to really engage… these patients in a collaborative format… it really takes a team, a village, to take care of complex mantle cell lymphoma patients. “ –Dr. Nirav Shah, MD, MSHP   “We're not really seeing a lot of CAR T-cell therapy move in the frontline setting just yet, while there are a lot of ongoing clinical trials… Really, right now, it's going to be the patient characteristic: how well they did on frontline therapy, access to care, affordability, institutional preparedness… that would potentially… allow your patient to receive CAR T-cell therapy.” –Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCPS, PCOP, FACCC Nirav Shah, MD, MSHP  Associate Professor of Medicine  Medical College of Wisconsin  Division of Hematology and Oncology  Milwaukee, Wisconsin    Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCPS, PCOP, FACCC  Assistant Professor of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic  Director of Pharmacy  Minnesota Oncology   St. Paul, Minnesota    This project is made possible by funding and support provided by Eli Lilly and in collaboration with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Resources Treatment for Relapsed/Refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma Tip Sheet - ACCC  Relapsed/Refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma Educational Video Series: Update on New Therapies: https://vimeo.com/942756449 BTK Inhibitors in MCL: https://vimeo.com/942755401 R/R MCL Case Studies: https://vimeo.com/942754652 BTK Inhibitors Stretch Frontline Approaches in Mantle Cell Lymphoma – Targeted Oncology  Emerging Data Continue to Affect BTK Inhibitor Usage in Mantle Cell Lymphoma - OncLive  HCP Fact Sheet: Facts About CAR T-cell Therapy - https://www.lls.org/sites/default/files/2023-10/FSHP1_CART_Factsheet_June2022_rev.pdf   The CAR T-cell Therapy Process - https://www.lls.org/sites/default/files/2024-03/PS100_CART-CellTherapyProcessFlyer_0224.pdf   Patient-Caregiver CAR T-cell Therapy Facts - https://www.lls.org/sites/default/files/2024-04/FS27_CART_Fact_Sheet_0424_rev.pdf   Learn About CAR T-cell Therapy - https://www.lls.org/sites/default/files/2024-03/PS126_CART_ResourceCard_3_24.pdf    Mantle Cell Lymphoma Facts for Patients and Caregivers -The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society  https://lls.org/sites/default/files/2023-08/FS4_Mantle_Cell_Facts_0423rev.pdf   

The range of frontline therapy options for mantle cell lymphoma can influence subsequent treatment choices for patients with relapsed or refractory disease. Providers must determine initial treatment based on individual patient characteristics, while also factoring in future treatment options. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Nirav Shah, MD, MSHP, associate professor of medicine at Medical College of Wisconsin and Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCOP, PCOP, FACCC, assistant professor of pharmacy at Mayo Clinic and director of pharmacy at Minnesota Oncology, about shared decision making in the management of relapsed or refractory mantle cell lymphoma. “The key to all of this is good collaboration between the community and their affiliates… their partners and academics, or tertiary referral centers, to really engage… these patients in a collaborative format… it really takes a team, a village, to take care of complex mantle cell lymphoma patients. “ –Dr. Nirav Shah, MD, MSHP   “We're not really seeing a lot of CAR T-cell therapy move in the frontline setting just yet, while there are a lot of ongoing clinical trials… Really, right now, it's going to be the patient characteristic: how well they did on frontline therapy, access to care, affordability, institutional preparedness… that would potentially… allow your patient to receive CAR T-cell therapy.” –Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCPS, PCOP, FACCC     Nirav Shah, MD, MSHP  Associate Professor of Medicine  Medical College of Wisconsin  Division of Hematology and Oncology  Milwaukee, Wisconsin    Kirollos Hanna, PharmD, BCPS, PCOP, FACCC  Assistant Professor of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic  Director of Pharmacy  Minnesota Oncology   St. Paul, Minnesota    This project is made possible by funding and support provided by Eli Lilly and in collaboration with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Resources Treatment for Relapsed/Refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma Tip Sheet - ACCC  Relapsed/Refractory Mantle Cell Lymphoma Educational Video Series: Update on New Therapies: https://vimeo.com/942756449 BTK Inhibitors in MCL: https://vimeo.com/942755401 R/R MCL Case Studies: https://vimeo.com/942754652 BTK Inhibitors Stretch Frontline Approaches in Mantle Cell Lymphoma – Targeted Oncology  Emerging Data Continue to Affect BTK Inhibitor Usage in Mantle Cell Lymphoma - OncLive  HCP Fact Sheet: Facts About CAR T-cell Therapy - https://www.lls.org/sites/default/files/2023-10/FSHP1_CART_Factsheet_June2022_rev.pdf   The CAR T-cell Therapy Process - https://www.lls.org/sites/default/files/2024-03/PS100_CART-CellTherapyProcessFlyer_0224.pdf   Patient-Caregiver CAR T-cell Therapy Facts - https://www.lls.org/sites/default/files/2024-04/FS27_CART_Fact_Sheet_0424_rev.pdf   Learn About CAR T-cell Therapy - https://www.lls.org/sites/default/files/2024-03/PS126_CART_ResourceCard_3_24.pdf    Mantle Cell Lymphoma Facts for Patients and Caregivers -The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society  https://lls.org/sites/default/files/2023-08/FS4_Mantle_Cell_Facts_0423rev.pdf         

Advancements in treatment combined with a multimodal approach are improving outcomes for patients with head and neck cancer. However, the unique challenges of a head and neck cancer diagnosis and its treatment side effects—such as speech and communication difficulties as well as negative effects on body image and self-esteem—can significantly impact a patient's mental health. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Jacquelyn Doenges, LCSW, MSSW, CTTS, clinical oncology social worker at UT Southwestern Medical Center—Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Linda Hutkin-Slade, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, clinical oncology social worker at David & Donna Long Cancer Center—Sharp Grossmont Hospital, about providing optimal psychosocial support for this patient population.  “Ask your patients ‘what is most valuable to you, what gets you up in the morning…what do you draw strength from?' If we can tap into what is essential for them to be happy in life, [we can] try to problem solve and build skills in them so that they can counter some of the issues that they'll experience because of their treatment.”–Jacquelyn Doenges, LCSW, MSSW, CTTS   “What we want is the patients at the center, and we want to build out a team around them so that they have as much support as possible, and that the energy is coming into the patient versus the patient trying to find these things [psychosocial care, dieticians, speech and language pathologists, oncology social workers].” –Linda Hutkin-Slade, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C   Guests:             Jacquelyn Doenges, LCSW, OSW-C, CTTS  Clinical Oncology Social Worker, Head and Neck Surgery  UT Southwestern Medical Center—Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center  Dallas, TX    Linda Hutkin-Slade, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C  Clinical Oncology Social Worker  David & Donna Long Cancer Center—Sharp Grossmont Hospital  San Diego, CA    This episode, developed in connection with the ACCC education program Multidisciplinary Approaches to Head and Neck Cancer Care, was made possible with support by EMD Serono.   Additional Reading/Sources Beyond the Brush: Navigating Dental Care in Head & Neck Cancer [Podcast] Ep 149 Making the Case for Head & Neck Cancer Patient Care Navigators [Podcast] Ep 143 Multidisciplinary Approaches to Head & Neck Cancer Care Head and Neck Patient and Caregiver Resources