Blood Cancer United Partners with US Oncology Network to Enhance Cancer Care Accessibility
In a groundbreaking move, Blood Cancer United®, formerly known as The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, has formed a significant partnership with The US Oncology Network. This collaboration is focused on enhancing cancer care for blood cancer patients by facilitating access to clinical trials at various community cancer centers.
The Importance of Clinical Trials
Clinical trials play a crucial role in advancing cancer treatment options. They provide patients access to innovative therapies that are not yet widely available. However, many patients face obstacles in enrolling in these trials, such as a lack of information, misconceptions about the process, and geographic barriers. The collaboration between Blood Cancer United and The US Oncology Network strives to eliminate these barriers by providing resources and support tailored to patients' needs.
What the Partnership Offers
The initiative aims to improve education regarding blood cancer clinical trials across selected cities. It will educate patients and healthcare providers on how to find and access suitable trials available in their vicinity.
Blood Cancer United will utilize its Clinical Trial Support Center to deliver personalized education on trials. Concurrently, The US Oncology Network will facilitate patient navigation services and matching patients with appropriate clinical trials. This support will significantly enhance the trial participation rates among different blood cancer patients, including those diagnosed with leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
Pilot Program Rollout
The partnership launched a two-year pilot program, with various community cancer centers taking part across three states. Patients at these sites will gain access to resources from the Clinical Trial Support Center by the end of 2025, ensuring they have the essential support needed to navigate the complexities of clinical trials effectively.
Voices from the Leaders
Gwen Nichols, M.D., the Chief Medical Officer of Blood Cancer United stated, "We are committed to supporting patients by identifying and removing barriers to clinical trial enrollment. Collaborations like this have the potential to directly improve patient outcomes."
Devon Womack, president of The US Oncology Network, shared similar sentiments, highlighting the collaboration's power to strengthen cancer care and expand access to clinical trials within local communities. Womack emphasized that raising awareness around clinical research not only boosts enrollment opportunities but also enriches the spectrum of treatment options available to patients, fostering hope in their battle against cancer.
About Blood Cancer United
Blood Cancer United is the leading nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting blood cancer patients globally. Since its establishment in 1949, it has evolved to offer comprehensive education, advocacy, and support for patients and their families facing over 100 types of blood cancers. The organization has invested over $2 billion in clinical research aimed at increasing survival rates and enhancing the quality of life for those impacted by these diseases.
In addition to providing educational resources, Blood Cancer United also engages in advocacy efforts to ensure that all patients have access to affordable healthcare solutions. They offer assistance to anyone affected by blood cancer via their support hotline, which operates Monday to Friday.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Blood Cancer United and The US Oncology Network marks a transformative step towards making clinical trials more accessible for blood cancer patients. As the two organizations embark on this dual effort to improve educational resources and patient navigation, it is anticipated that thousands of patients will benefit from enhanced treatment options and support, paving the way toward new possibilities in their fight against cancer.