Protocol Behavioral Health Expands Into the Midwest with Affiliated Oncologists Partnership

Protocol Behavioral Health Expands Into the Midwest

Protocol Behavioral Health, a leader in oncology-specific behavioral health services, has announced its first expansion into the Midwest, partnering with Affiliated Oncologists, a prominent community practice in Illinois. This partnership aims to increase access to essential mental health support for cancer patients in the greater Chicagoland area, where over 45 clinicians are now available to assist in the treatment journey.

Cancer care is not just about physical treatment; emotional and psychological support is critical, especially since studies suggest that more than half of cancer patients experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, or cognitive impairment during their treatment. Alarmingly, fewer than 10% of these individuals receive adequate behavioral health support. With the ongoing challenge of fragmented healthcare systems, long waiting periods, and a lack of trained professionals in psycho-oncology, many patients suffer in silence.

Dr. Amar Hamad, President of Affiliated Oncologists, underscored the importance of integrating behavioral health into cancer care, stating, "Behavioral health is core to whether patients stay engaged in treatment and how they experience their entire care journey." The collaboration provides a streamlined approach, ensuring that cancer patients can access the support they need without overburdening physicians or clinic staff.

Jack Fitzgibbons, Co-Founder and CEO of Protocol, reflected on the significance of this partnership, emphasizing how it complements existing workflows within cancer practices. He noted, "This expansion is particularly special as it brings much-needed, patient-centric behavioral health solutions to my home region."

Patients under the care of Affiliated Oncologists will now have improved access to behavioral health care managers and licensed clinicians adept in psycho-oncology. Moreover, psychiatric support is readily available if deemed necessary. The unique Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) allows patients to receive timely mental health assistance, typically within 48 hours of being referred. This model won recognition as a standard component of cancer care for distress management in January 2026 by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN).

This initiative marks a significant milestone in Protocol's mission to deliver comprehensive behavioral health services in tandem with community oncology practices. The expansion into the Midwest is just the beginning, with further market launches expected later this summer.

About Affiliated Oncologists

Affiliated Oncologists has served the greater Chicago area for over 50 years, offering multidisciplinary care provided by a team of board-certified specialists in medical oncology, hematology, radiation oncology, and gynecologic oncology. The practice prides itself on delivering personalized, cutting-edge treatments tailored to individual patient needs.

About Protocol Behavioral Health

Protocol Behavioral Health focuses on addressing the mental health challenges of cancer patients, partnering closely with oncology practices to deliver evidence-based behavioral health services. Backed by Juxtapose, a prominent investment firm, Protocol is poised to redefine mental health support in oncology care. For further information, visit www.protocolcares.com.