The Latest Cancer Policy Updates from Washington

October was National Pharmacist Month, so it was fitting that this Advocacy Chat examined the role pharmacists play as part of the cancer care team.

On Wednesday, Sep. 13, 2023, at 12 p.m. ET, listeners learned what common types of coverage you can expect to see, how to navigate the insurance marketplace, and what type of coverage is best for you. COA's Director of Patient Advocacy and Education Rose Gerber, MS, was joined by Kathy Oubre, CEO of Pontchartrain Cancer Center in Louisiana. Kathy shared her experiences counseling patients on what to look for in a good plan and how to overcome typical challenges encountered during the sign-up process.

We took stock of the policy landscape for the July 2023 Advocacy Chat – advocates joined the Community Oncology Alliance Patient Advocacy Network (CPAN) on Wednesday, July 12 at 12 p.m. ET to learn about the major cancer policy events from the first half of the year, what bills and projects are in the works, and COA’s plans for the second half of 2023. COA’s Managing Director Nicolas Ferreyros and Director of Patient Advocacy and Education Rose Gerber, MS, discussed the recent Hill Day, what is being done about drug shortages, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), legislation that COA is supporting to protect patients and practices, and upcoming regulatory changes that could change the way cancer care is delivered. Rose and Nick also discussed the current status of CPAN, including the growth of new chapters and new engagement opportunities for CPAN members.

Join the Community Oncology Alliance Patient Advocacy Network (CPAN) for a virtual Advocacy Chat on Wednesday, June 21 at noon ET.

Join COA’s Director of Patient Advocacy and Education Rose Gerber, MS, and Colleen Lewis, MSN, ANP-BC, AOCNP, Vice President, Nursing & Research Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, will discuss Clinical Trials in the Community Oncology Setting and the positive impacts on patient care.