#United States #Rockville #ACCC #Gynecologic Cancer #Biomarker Testing

ACCC Invites Cancer Centers to Enhance Gynecologic Cancer Care

The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) has unveiled an exciting opportunity for cancer centers through a quality improvement (QI) workshop focused on integrating biomarker testing into treatment plans for patients dealing with gynecologic cancers. This initiative reflects ACCC's commitment to enhancing the accessibility and quality of care for patients who face these challenging conditions.

Importance of Biomarker Testing

Biomarker testing has emerged as a cornerstone in the diagnosis and treatment of gynecologic cancers. Its significance lies in its ability to pinpoint specific characteristics of cancer, which in turn informs the most effective treatment strategies for individual patients. Unfortunately, despite the clear benefits, many patients encounter substantial hurdles in accessing biomarker testing. Key barriers include financial constraints, a lack of coordination among care providers, and limited awareness among medical professionals regarding these essential tests.

Workshop Overview

The innovative QI workshop aims at empowering cancer centers to facilitate better access and use of biomarker testing in their practices. The ACCC is calling on cancer centers to join this initiative, which will focus on:

1. Assessing Gaps in Testing Practices: Identifying existing barriers that hinder the effective implementation of guideline-based testing for important biomarkers like HRD, MMR/MSI, and HER2.

2. Addressing Social Determinants of Health: Tackling issues related to financial toxicity, coordinating genetic testing, and improving provider education to optimize patient access to necessary testing.

3. Developing Actionable Strategies: Creating practical strategies and gaining access to crucial resources that will aid in the seamless integration of biomarker testing into their treatment protocols.

As an incentive, selected centers participating in the program will be awarded a stipend of $10,000 to support their involvement. This substantial support underlines the ACCC's commitment to empowering healthcare providers in making meaningful changes that benefit patients.

Access to Tools and Resources

Participants in the workshop will benefit from direct access to several resources, including the ACCC's Quality Self-Assessment Tool for Ovarian Cancer Care Delivery. This tool is based on the research conducted by Temkin et al., and it's designed to assist cancer programs in:

• - Conducting baseline assessments of their care practices
• - Identifying gaps across seven critical domains such as prevention, care coordination, and survivorship
• - Implementing evidence-based strategies aimed at elevating the quality of care for patients with gynecologic cancers

Getting Involved

Cancer centers interested in participating in this pivotal QI workshop initiative are encouraged to reach out to Bianca Alvarez, MPH, CHES, via email at [email protected]. The workshop represents a unique chance for centers to improve access to essential biomarker testing and ultimately enhance patient care in gynecologic cancers.

Commitment to Patient-Centered Care

The emphasis on this QI initiative and the associated assessment tools reinforce ACCC's dedication to supporting cancer programs in their efforts to deliver equitable and patient-centered care. By addressing the specific challenges that healthcare providers face in treating gynecologic cancers, the ACCC is paving the way for better health outcomes and quality care.

About ACCC

The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) stands as a leading education and advocacy organization within the cancer care domain. With a vast network of over 45,000 multidisciplinary professionals, the ACCC is committed to enhancing access, quality, and equity in the delivery of cancer care. As a professional body, ACCC continues to champion initiatives that support healthcare providers and ultimately, improve the lives of patients battling cancer.