Insights from Florida Cancer Specialists on Improving Patient Care at Statewide Oncology Congress

Florida Cancer Specialists Share Key Insights at FLASCO Congress

The Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) recently participated in the Florida Society of Clinical Oncology (FLASCO) Fall Oncology Congress held in Orlando. This event, spanning two days, served as an essential gathering for professionals within the oncology field to discuss advancements, share strategies, and explore new trends that can optimize patient care.

Panel Discussions and Expert Insights

FCS clinicians took center stage, showcasing their expertise across various panels. Notably, Dr. Faithlore Gardner, a medical oncologist and hematologist at FCS, served as the program chair and moderated key discussions. One session, focused on "Women Centric Cancer Care: Onco-Fertility and Cancer Management in Pregnancy," addressed the unique challenges faced by women undergoing cancer treatment.

Another significant session was "Integrating Molecular and Genomic Insights in Oncology: Tumor Board Perspectives on Lung, Breast, and Colorectal Cancer," which highlighted the importance of personalized treatment plans based on genetic insights. These discussions underscore FCS's commitment to enhancing patient care through modern science and collaborative efforts.

Exploring Innovative Care Models

Panelist Kristen Boykin, Director of Pharmacy Operations at FCS, contributed to discussions on the impact of subcutaneous administration of therapies in her session titled "SUBQ: Exploring the Power Under the Skin." This topic is increasingly relevant given advances in drug delivery methods that improve patients' quality of life.

Additionally, Robin Hammack, an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) at FCS Port Charlotte, emphasized the significance of collaboration between Medical Doctors (MDs) and Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) in delivering high-quality oncology care. The session titled "Enhancing Collaboration Between MDs and APPs: A Model for High-Quality Care" laid the foundation for future models of integrated care.

Delivering Real-World Insights

Apart from panel discussions, FCS research was a focus at the congress. Dr. Gustavo Fonseca, Director of Research and Clinical Trials, along with Amanda Warner, Director of Real-World Evidence, presented a poster titled "Real-World Treatment Patterns and Outcomes of Luspatercept in Treatment-Naïve Patients With Lower-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes in a Large U.S. Community Oncology Practice." This research aims to improve treatment decisions with real-world data, crucial for enhancing clinical outcomes.

Leadership and Community Involvement

FCS stands out as Florida's largest community oncology provider. Their leadership is reflected through several key figures actively involved with FLASCO. Dr. Maen Hussein serves as president, while other FCS oncologists hold significant positions on the board, contributing to the ongoing efforts to improve patient care across the state

FCS President Lucio N. Gordan emphasizes the organization’s mission: "As Florida's largest community oncology provider, we continue our quest to set the gold standard for oncology practice. We welcome this collaborative opportunity to explore innovative approaches to ensuring optimal patient experiences and outcomes." This engagement with the oncology community illustrates FCS's dedication not only to advancements in cancer treatment but also to fostering a network that benefits all patients in Florida.

The Role of FLASCO

The Florida Society of Clinical Oncology (FLASCO) is a non-profit organization that plays a crucial role in uniting oncology professionals. It enables multidisciplinary collaboration among practitioners and industry stakeholders focused on enhancing patient care in Florida. FCS’s participation at the congress highlights its dedication to both professional development and patient-centered care.

For over four decades, FCS has leveraged innovation to transform oncology care. Through robust clinical research, the institute has established itself as a leader in providing patients access to novel treatment options, often before they become widely available in the U.S. This commitment to quality and innovation has significantly impacted the oncology landscape within and beyond Florida.

In conclusion, the discussions and insights shared at the FLASCO Fall Oncology Congress exemplify the collective effort to enhance oncology care across Florida. As FCS continues its mission to improve patient outcomes, they remain a beacon of hope and innovation in the fight against cancer.