The Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC) Fall 2024 conference showcased significant advances in cancer care delivery, with innovations spanning clinical trial accessibility, treatment authorization, and patient support programs.
Automated Systems Transform Treatment Authorization
The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center has revolutionized its approach to treatment authorization through an innovative informatics program. The system, which earned an Innovator Award at the conference, has demonstrated remarkable success in streamlining biosimilar selection and prior authorization processes. The automated platform has driven a 21.9% increase in biosimilar utilization while significantly reducing administrative burden and authorization turnaround times.
Breaking Barriers in Clinical Trial Participation
At the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center, research advocacy manager Terry L. Keys is spearheading efforts to transform public perception of clinical trials. The center has adopted a strategic approach to addressing misconceptions, emphasizing that trial participants receive standard care alongside potential additional benefits. A key innovation includes replacing potentially intimidating terminology - such as using "clinical research" instead of "clinical trial" - to enhance trust and understanding, particularly among historically underserved populations.
Expanding Community Access to Advanced Therapies
The Cowell Family Cancer Center in northern Michigan has launched an innovative community-based bispecific antibody delivery program, addressing geographical barriers to advanced cancer care. According to Courtney VanHouzen, PharmD, PGY-2 oncology resident, the initiative enables patients to receive novel therapies closer to home, eliminating the financial and emotional burden of long-distance travel for treatment.
Wellness and Health Literacy Initiatives
Fox Chase Cancer Center's "Just in Time" program has emerged as a model for tailored patient communication, addressing diverse demographic needs and language barriers. Complementing this approach, Northwell Health presented its comprehensive wellness initiative, which has shown positive outcomes in reducing stress levels and increasing engagement among both staff and patients.
Addressing Healthcare Disparities
The University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center, under the leadership of Dr. Naoto T. Ueno, is tackling the historical underrepresentation of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities in clinical trials. The Hawaiʻi Cancer Consortium has implemented a multi-faceted approach, combining expanded trial access with professional education and community advisory boards to improve outcomes for underserved populations.
The conference highlighted how technological innovation, community engagement, and patient-centered approaches are reshaping cancer care delivery, with a particular focus on improving access and outcomes for traditionally underserved populations.
