Oncology News Central

🎯 Founded in 2023, Common Sense Oncology is on a mission to reform how cancer drugs are developed and approved, focusing on outcomes that truly matter to patients. With input from clinicians, policy makers, and patient advocates globally, this initiative led by Dr. Bishal Gyawali recently published FAQs on the pitfalls of surrogate endpoints in oncology. Their sessions at ASCO and ESMO have drawn significant attention, and their growing membership is a testament to their impact. Learn how this movement is reshaping oncology care and trial design. https://bit.ly/3YoMCtP Common Sense Oncology Bishal Gyawali

As we approach a pivotal election, the voices of healthcare professionals are more essential than ever. ONC, MedCentral, and Ask Nurses & Doctors are gathering insights on the policies, challenges, and opportunities that impact our field—and ultimately, our patients. We invite you to participate in this anonymous survey, open until October 30, to help us capture the pulse of healthcare professionals nationwide. Make your perspective count and ensure our collective voice shapes the future of healthcare. Now, more than ever, healthcare matters. https://bit.ly/4hiM5Ry

Study reveals increased medical oncologist numbers but fewer practices due to rapid consolidation from 2015-2022. “The rate of consolidation seems to be rapid when compared to prior data,” said Parsa Erfani, MD, first author of the study and an internal medicine resident at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. https://bit.ly/4cFTbg2 Parsa Erfani Donna L. Lamb Nicolas Ferreyros Community Oncology Alliance American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)

⚕️ As we face critical health issues in this historic election, ONC, MedCentral, and Ask Nurses & Doctors are seeking your perspective on the policies, challenges, and opportunities shaping our field. We invite you to participate in our anonymous survey, open until October 30. Together, let’s capture the pulse of healthcare professionals across the country and ensure our voices contribute to shaping the future of our patients health and work. https://bit.ly/4hiM5Ry

Surrogate endpoints in oncology trials remain controversial. Our latest article answers 15 common questions, addressing pitfalls and the way forward. Learn why OS and QoL should be the gold standards. https://bit.ly/4dOqddM Bishal Gyawali Queen's University

🐶 At #WCLC2024, Dr. Mark A. Lewis discussed the emotional toll of patient loss on oncologists & healthcare professionals- all while snuggling adorable puppies. With rising rates of depression among oncologists, he called for prioritizing mental health. https://bit.ly/3YmLKEW Mark Lewis Eric Singhi

The latest American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) State of the Oncology Workforce in America report reveals critical gaps in access to clinical trials across the U.S., with 70% of counties having no active cancer trials. This disparity is particularly concerning for rural areas, which also have higher cancer mortality and increased social vulnerability. As Dr. Ishwaria Subbiah and Dr. Wade Swenson point out, the decentralization of clinical trials could help close this gap. https://bit.ly/3NBl9yQ Ishwaria Subbiah, MD, MS, FASCO Wade Swenson American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)

🎸 At Moffitt Cancer Center, Dr. Patrick Hwu’s trimonthly jam sessions unite staff across departments. From classic rock to South Asian ballads, these sessions build camaraderie and offer a creative outlet for everyone, from nurses to doctors to research staff. The music didn’t just build camaraderie; it was a true equalizer, Dr. Hwu said. Doctors, environmental services workers, nurses, and security guards all took turns playing together, despite the different roles they filled at Moffitt. “In music, we’re all equals,” Dr. Hwu said. https://bit.ly/3zR3xfb Moffitt Cancer Center Patrick Hwu

Did CMS's Oncology Care Model (OCM) have a spillover effect beyond its target population? A recent analysis suggests it did. Commercially insured patients benefitted from lower costs, particularly in infused drug spending. While CMS didn't immediately see these savings, it's a glimpse into how value-based care models can influence the broader healthcare ecosystem. Curious to see if the new Enhancing Oncology Model (EOM) will continue this trend. https://bit.ly/3NwlDpV Samyukta Mullangi Ravi B. Parikh Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

🏅 Newsweek’s World’s Best Specialized Hospitals 2025 - Oncology: The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (#1) and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have been recognized as the top two cancer hospitals worldwide. The Mayo Clinic also secured a spot in the top 10, representing the exceptional standards of oncology care and innovation in the U.S. This achievement underscores their relentless commitment to excellence in patient care, research, and education. https://bit.ly/3ZzGVKm Mayo Clinic The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center