Every May, we celebrate Oncology Nursing Month to recognize the critical role oncology nurses play in patient care. We honor them for their dedication, commitment, and passion for helping those in need. Oncology nurses play a key role in their patients’ cancer journey from explaining a diagnosis, to providing guidance through treatment, celebrating victories, and comforting patients through unimaginable setbacks.
This year’s Oncology Nursing Month theme is “Inspiring Innovation. Inspiring Care.” The word “inspiring” describes exactly what oncology nurses do, especially as we look back at your contributions over the past year. Despite the challenges of global pandemic and adjusting to the new normal, nurses have continued to show up for patients with fierce dedication and compassion.
As we salute oncology nurses across The Network, we recognize their contributions and impact. Farah Olson, RN, BSN of Minnesota Oncology describes her role in patient care and her source of inspiration, “As an oncology nurse, I have the privilege of helping patients when they are most vulnerable. I try to bring a sense of understanding to a scary diagnosis and guide patients through their disease process and treatment with empathy and compassion. In the process of getting to know my patients and helping them through their uncharted cancer journey, little did I know that they would be teaching me about life and even myself. Every day, I am in awe of my patient’s courage, strength, perseverance, hope, and love. They inspire me to not sweat the small stuff and to not take anything for granted. I truly love what I do, and I will always provide my patients with the care that they deserve.”
The US Oncology Network supports nurses year-round
The Network recognizes the important role nurses play in providing the highest quality patient care in a community setting and we are committed to supporting the professional growth and development of all our nurses and clinical staff. Nurses in The Network have access to clinical education programs, various certification courses, including the ONCC FreeTakeTM Certification Program. In addition, they have access to leadership courses and other learning resources to further their educational opportunities.
We thank you
Even when faced with the most difficult situations, oncology nurses remain fearlessly committed to provide endless compassion and comfort to patients. Never has there been a greater demonstration of oncology nurses’ fierce commitment to patients with cancer as in this past year. While struggling with their own fears, family and personal needs, oncology nurses continued their excellent care and commitment to patients. We celebrate all nurses of The US Oncology Network and beyond during Oncology Nursing Month, and every other day of the year. Thank you for all you do day in and day out!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Beatrice Mautner, RN, MSN, OCN is the Vice President of Clinical and Innovent Services for The US Oncology Network. She’s responsible for leading The Network’s clinical services teams and ensuring that nurses and clinical staff at practices in The Network have the resources and support necessary to provide high-quality patient care every day. |
Oncology practices are constantly evolving and navigating changes in the healthcare landscape. While the increasing complexity of administrative and operational responsibilities can bring about unforeseen burdens, The US Oncology Network’s technology implementation services and support help ease those challenges. Our team leads the implementation of processes and tools that enable our physicians to focus on delivering leading edge care to patients.
Building a technology roadmap and supporting implementation
The right technology is critical to operating a successful practice. Our deep understanding of oncology practices drives the development of an individualized technology roadmap that serves as a plan for practices to navigate the implementation of our industry-leading technologies to support core clinical, operational and financial aspects of the practice.
Appropriate technology solutions are determined after discussing practice strategy and identifying gaps in patient care and practice efficiency. We work with practices the find the right solution from our portfolio of solutions and work with vendors to seek additional solutions to ensure we are truly solving practice problems. As practice needs evolve and new solutions become available roadmaps are modified to support continuous practice improvement.
Supporting practices through implementation
Technology projects are managed from the initial set-up to training and on-going support. Our team of project managers work closely with practices set timelines, coordinate meetings, manage communication and serve as a liaison to vendors to avoid the interruption of daily practice operations. A technology dashboard is easily accessible to keep practices up to date with ongoing projects and their technology roadmap.
Successful oncology practices navigate the evolving healthcare landscape with a well-planned roadmap to guide technology implementation to ultimately help practices treat patients and have better patient outcomes. As measures assessing cost, quality and other outcomes continue to evolve, the right technology is critical to meeting demands. Our technology allows the providers in The Network to focus on the health of their patients, while our focus is on the health of their practices.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Theresa Gray is the Senior Director of Network Technology for The US Oncology Network. Theresa is responsible for leading technology strategy and implementation for The Network while ensuring alignment with the broader strategies of The Network, to drive profitable and sustainable network growth. Theresa has been with the organization for over 30 years.
Results showing off-label use of commercially available acalabrutinib (CALQUENCE®) led to rapid improvements in small number of patients appear in Science Immunology
THE WOODLANDS, Texas, June 5, 2020—Rapid improvements have been seen in acutely ill patients with COVID-19 treated with the cancer drug acalabrutinib (Calquence) by researchers, including physicians within The US Oncology Network (The Network). Results of the exploratory research, which was conducted in collaboration with AstraZeneca (AZ) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), appear in Science Immunology.
Nineteen patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) from COVID-19 were treated with acalabrutinib for 10-14 days. Most patients demonstrated measurable improvements in oxygenation, often within 1-3 days. Nine out of 11 (82%) patients who had been receiving supplemental oxygen when treated with acalabrutinib were discharged from the hospital and no longer required supplemental oxygen. In addition, four out of eight (50%) patients who were receiving invasive mechanical ventilation prior to acalabrutinib administration were extubated and discharged without the need of supplemental oxygen. Improvement in key laboratory assessments measuring disease progression, including c-reactive protein level and lymphocyte levels, were also seen. There were no observed toxicities attributable to acalabrutinib, including those outlined in the product’s important safety information, such as cardiac arrhythmia, bleeding, diarrhea or opportunistic infection.
“When COVID-19 infects the respiratory pathway, the body creates a hyperactive immune response to ward off this novel virus for which it has no prior immunity. This robust response produces excessive inflammation that causes more damage than the virus itself, leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome,” said Jeff Sharman, MD, co-author of the manuscript and medical director of Hematology Research for The US Oncology Network. “As lead investigator in the clinical trial which led to the approval of acalabrutinib for people with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, I have seen the drug’s ability to modify key immunologic signaling pathways shared by both cancer and the virus. I am encouraged by these initial results but further research is necessary to better understand the role of acalabrutinib in treating COVID-19.”
Acalabrutinib is a member of a class of drugs known as Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors, which are used to treat B-cell leukemias and lymphomas. Physicians in The US Oncology Network became engaged in this research due to their deep knowledge and active role in development of the BTK-inhibitor drug class, specifically acalabrutinib, and their commercial experience with the drug. These community oncologists were asked to lend their expertise at select hospitals where they have “practicing privileges” to advise treating physicians on how best to administer the drug and explore the potential for this commercially available oncology treatment to address the body’s overreaction to COVID-19.
The decision to explore the application of acalabrutinib in this patient population was based on known COVID-19 biology, the product’s mechanism of action and safety profile, and published preclinical data examining acalabrutinib in a mouse model for influenza.
“This project is an excellent example of community oncologists with knowledge and experience with acalabrutinib working together with colleagues at the NIH/NCI and AstraZeneca during this pandemic to determine if the drug can be repurposed to treat hospitalized patients with advanced COVID-19 disease, said Stephen Wrzesinski, MD, PhD, co-author of the manuscript and director of Immunooncology and Cellular Therapy at New York Oncology Hematology in Albany, NY. “Being able to collaborate with other healthcare professionals on the front lines at the local and national levels to care for the sickest patients infected with this virus demonstrates how integrated collaborative research of this magnitude has the potential to benefit everyone during this unprecedented time.”
The patients, who range in age from 45 to 84, received the drug “off label” and were treated at Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers (RMCC) in collaboration with Centura Health in Colorado, St. Peter’s Hospital in collaboration with New York Oncology Hematology (NYOH) in New York and Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, D.C. Patients or their medical proxy were approached about participating in the exploratory study of acalabrutinib, advised of the safety and potential risks involved, and all agreed to participate.
“We chose to do this exploratory research based on very good science and the early experience from the NIH. And while it is very gratifying to see patients who were in, or at risk of being admitted to, the ICU respond well, get off ventilators and leave the hospital, it is essential that we collect additional evidence in a randomized, controlled trial. I am looking forward to seeing more data on this drug in the future,” said M. Andrew Monticelli, MD, co-author of the manuscript and medical oncologist and hematologist at Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers.
Based on the findings of this exploratory research, AstraZeneca has initiated additional clinical studies evaluating acalabrutinib in seriously ill patients with over-reactive immune responses (cytokine storm) attributed to COVID-19 infection. These studies will examine acalabrutinib in two phase II trials in which acalabrutinib is compared to best supportive care in patients hospitalized with COVID-19, regardless of whether they are in an intensive care unit (ICU).
Researchers from The US Oncology Network were involved in the exploratory research due to their experience in the clinical development of acalabrutinib in B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Sites selected to participate in the exploratory research were based on several criteria including regional COVID-19 infection rates/prevalence, familiarity/experience with acalabrutinib, affiliation with a treating hospital system, and product availability and agreement with the institution’s leadership. These sites are being considered for the larger randomized clinical study.
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About The US Oncology Network
Every day, The US Oncology Network (The Network) helps more than 1,350 independent physicians deliver value-based, integrated care to patients — close to home. Through The Network, these independent doctors come together to form a community of shared expertise and resources dedicated to advancing local cancer care and to delivering better patient outcomes. The Network provides practices with access to coordinated resources, best business practices, and the experience, infrastructure and support of McKesson Corporation. This collaboration allows the providers in The Network to focus on the health of their patients, while McKesson focuses on the health of their practices. The Network is committed to the success of independent practices, everywhere.
Dr. Michael P. Hoeh brings additional expertise in minimally invasive surgery to the practice
Columbia, Missouri (March 2, 2016) – Urology Associates of Central Missouri (UACM), a leading provider of comprehensive state-of-the-art urological care, has added another physician to the practice to meet increasing demand for its services. Michael P. Hoeh, M.D., joins the practice’s seven other highly-credentialed and experienced urologists. Dr. Hoeh, who is trained in the very latest diagnostic and treatment options for urologic conditions, will provide general urology services. The addition of Dr. Hoeh will enhance timely access to care for patients throughout Central Missouri.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Hoeh to our practice,” said Michael Cupp, M.D., F.A.C.S., urologist with UACM. “He is a highly-qualified urologist trained in the newest procedures in our field, and he has a keen interest in the exciting new technologies that are now available to treat complex urologic conditions. He also shares our philosophy of providing quality, comprehensive care in a compassionate, caring environment, making him a great fit for our practice.”
Dr. Hoeh is no stranger to Missouri, having been born and raised in Perryville, Mo. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology from Truman State University, Kirksville, Mo., earning valedictorian honors. He received his medical degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and then completed his Urologic Surgical Residency at Rush University in Chicago.
Dr. Hoeh enjoys all areas of urology, but has a special interest in the prevention and management of erectile dysfunction, prostate diseases including cancer, and prostate cancer surgical treatment options. He has extensive training in minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopy and the da Vinci Robotic System, as well as penile prosthetic surgery and minimally invasive stone disease management. Dr. Hoeh is a member of numerous professional societies, including the American Urological Association, the Endourological Society, and the American Medical Association.
“Urology Associates of Central Missouri has a great reputation for providing patients access to the very latest treatment advances, and that was extremely important to me,” said Dr. Hoeh. “Joining the practice gives me the opportunity to utilize the advanced training I received, allowing me to bring cutting-edge treatments back to the state I grew up in and love. I look forward to collaborating with this group of highly-skilled professionals who are so dedicated to delivering compassionate, high-quality care.”
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Hoeh, call 573-499-4990.
About Urology Associates of Central Missouri
Urology Associates of Central Missouri (UACM) was formed in 2008 through the merger of two long-standing urology practices. It is a leading provider of urology services in the region and the only independent urology group in Columbia. The practice has eight highly-credentialed and experienced urologists on staff. The group offers the very latest treatment options and technologies, such as robotic and minimally invasive surgery. The practice is committed to providing compassionate, quality, state-of-the-art urological care in a prompt and courteous manner. Their main treatment center is located in Columbia, Missouri, with additional treatment sites in Macon, Marshall, Mexico and Moberly.
In 2014, UACM joined Missouri Cancer Associates, enhancing operational efficiencies and integrated patient care at both practices. Missouri Cancer Associates is the premier cancer treatment center in mid-Missouri and an affiliate of The US Oncology Network, one of the nation’s largest networks of integrated community-based oncology practices dedicated to advancing high-quality, evidence-based cancer care. Combining urology, hematology, medical and radiation oncology into one group enables both practices to provide cutting-edge seamless care in a timely fashion for cancer and non-cancer related services. To learn more, visit www.mo-urology.com.
Media Contact
Claire Crye
The US Oncology Network
281-825-9927
Claire.Crye@usoncology.com
The Network will support practices with an innovative program to automate and simplify the OCM
The Woodlands, Texas (June 30, 2016) — The US Oncology Network, supported by McKesson Specialty Health, announced today that 12 of its affiliated oncology practices have accepted the invitation to participate in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Oncology Care Model (OCM). The OCM is a new, voluntary payment initiative introduced by CMS’ Innovation Center designed to support the transition to value-based care by advancing better care, smarter spending and healthier people. To help oncology practices successfully participate in the OCM and other value-based payment models, The US Oncology Network has developed a comprehensive program with innovative tools and resources.
“We are extremely proud that 13 affiliated practices were selected by CMS to participate in the exciting new OCM program and 12 have accepted,” said Marcus Neubauer, M.D., medical director of Oncology Services for The US Oncology Network and McKesson Specialty Health. “We have expertise in value-based reimbursement models, and we expect to be well prepared and lead the way forward in a new era of cancer care.”
Through these selected practices in The Network, roughly 800 physicians will participate in the CMS Oncology Care Model and approximately 30,000 patients will be eligible for care based on guidelines outlined in the OCM. In total, approximately 3,200 physicians were chosen to participate in the OCM, which means The Network affiliated physicians represent one-fourth of all participating physicians. When considering practices supported through its Onmark purchasing and Vantage Oncology-affiliated practices, McKesson Specialty Health supports nearly 50 practices that have been selected – an unparalleled commitment to value-based oncology.
The OCM requires the delivery of high-quality, coordinated care for patients while undergoing chemotherapy. The model emphasizes practice transformation in key performance areas and includes various requirements such as delivering patient navigation and a comprehensive care plan with specific components from the Institute of Medicine.
Preparing for Value-Based Reimbursement
Some of the practices selected to participate in the OCM have also been actively engaged in an internal program developed by The US Oncology Network to prepare for the OCM by building and testing processes that will be required for success. This internal program reinforces the commitments made by McKesson Specialty Health and The US Oncology Network to help oncologists deliver high-quality care and navigate through an ever-changing healthcare landscape.
“We are already applying lessons learned from this internal program to enhance our care delivery processes and technology, and believe that it will benefit patients and practices supported more broadly by McKesson Specialty Health,” said David Fryefield, M.D., medical director of Operational Excellence for The US Oncology Network and practice president and radiation oncologist with Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and Research Center.
“The move to value-based care will completely change the landscape of cancer care in the future, impacting all aspects of care delivery and reimbursement,” added J. Russell Hoverman, M.D., medical director of managed care for The US Oncology Network and oncologist with Texas Oncology. “It is exciting to be among the first to participate in this important transformation that aims to improve patient outcomes while being judicious with healthcare dollars.”
“Many of these requirements have already been met and implemented by practices across The US Oncology Network,” noted Nicole Hartung, M.D., medical director of Quality for Minnesota Oncology and director of OCM for The US Oncology Network, “so we are ahead of the curve in some instances. However, practices still need to have a way to seamlessly incorporate key processes of the OCM into the normal workflow to minimize additional staff time, expense and workflow disruptions the OCM may cause. That’s where The Network OCM program comes into play,” she explained.
For the past six months, The Network has been working on an Oncology Care Model support program to help practices prepare for implementation of the OCM and other alternative payment models. The support program concentrates on five key areas including: care and support team structure, developing and deploying patient care paths, technology and reporting needs, financial models for incentive alignment and revenue cycle management. Innovative resources and toolkits have been developed to drive the transformation required for practices to survive in the emerging performance-based environment. Ongoing testing and refinement will continue based on real-world experience.
“The OCM marks a major milestone in the shift to value-based cancer care, and we congratulate all of The Network affiliated practices selected to participate in this innovative program,” said Diana Verrilli, VP/GM, Payer & Provider Solutions, McKesson Specialty Health. “As an organization whose affiliated physicians provide care to more than 800,000 cancer patients annually, The US Oncology Network is proud to be at the forefront of this historical event that will have a lasting impact on cancer care for decades to come.”
Practices in The US Oncology Network that have accepted the invitation to participate in the OCM program include:
Willamette Valley Cancer Institute
About The US Oncology Network
The US Oncology Network is one of the nation’s largest networks of integrated, community-based oncology practices dedicated to advancing high-quality, evidence-based cancer care. A physician-led organization, The US Oncology Network unites like-minded physicians and clinicians around a common vision of improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Leveraging healthcare information technology, shared best practices, evidence-based guidelines and quality measurements, physicians within The US Oncology Network are pioneering new ways to achieve this vision. The US Oncology Network is committed to strengthening patient access to integrated care in local communities across the nation, including collaboration with a variety of payers, hospitals and academic institutions. The US Oncology Network is supported by McKesson Specialty Health, a division of McKesson Corporation focused on empowering a vibrant and sustainable community patient care delivery system. For more information, visit www.usoncology.com.
Media Contact
Claire Crye
The US Oncology Network
281-825-9927
Claire.Crye@usoncology.com
Practice leads the way in bringing promising potential new therapy to patients with ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer
Fairfax, Va. (July 14, 2016) — Virginia Cancer Specialists (VCS), Virginia’s premier cancer care center with more than 40 years of providing service to patients battling cancer and blood diseases, is the first in the world to enroll a patient in a new advanced lung cancer clinical trial that may hold promise for patients with ALK-positive locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (ALK+ NSCLC). The randomized Phase III clinical trial focuses on brigatinib, an investigational anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor from ARIAD Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The trial is designed to assess the efficacy of the drug candidate in a head-to-head comparison with the current recommended therapy, crizotinib, evaluating progression free survival.
Virginia Cancer Specialists conducts clinical trials through US Oncology Research, one of the largest community-based cancer research programs in the country. US Oncology Research has played a role in approximately 60 FDA approved cancer therapies, nearly one-third of all approved cancer therapies to date. Other practices affiliated with US Oncology Research are also participating in the trial. The trial is expected to be conducted at approximately 150 investigational sites in North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region.
“We are excited to be the very first cancer practice in the world to enroll a patient in this important Phase III trial that may eventually lead to improved outcomes for patients battling certain forms of non-small cell lung cancer,” said Alex Spira M.D., medical oncologist and director of the VCS Research Institute. “As the leader in clinical research in Northern Virginia, we are committed to advancing the fight against cancer by bringing cutting-edge clinical trials, like the brigatinib study, to our region, providing patients access to novel investigational therapies in a convenient community setting. Rather than traveling elsewhere for these advanced investigational treatments, patients can receive care in a comfortable, familiar environment close to home where they have the ongoing support of family and friends, helping them achieve the best possible outcome.”
The Phase III clinical trial of brigatinib was launched in April, and the VCS Research Institute immediately began screening patients for eligibility, eventually identifying the patient who would become the very first in the world to enroll in this advanced clinical study.
“Our pivotal trial of brigatinib explored its safety and efficacy for patients following crizotinib. Virginia Cancer Specialists and other clinical trial sites are also examining brigatinib’s potential as a new therapy for patients with ALK+ NSCLC who have not yet received an ALK inhibitor. Innovative therapies are needed for these patients to improve response rates and delay progression that can occur through the emergence of secondary resistance mutations in ALK, and progression in the central nervous system.” said Tim Clackson, Ph.D., president of research and development and chief scientific officer of ARIAD. “We believe that the encouraging results shown in our preclinical and ongoing Phase I and II studies suggest brigatinib has the potential to improve outcomes for ALK+ treatment-naïve patients by suppressing ALK+ disease.”
Brigatinib has received breakthrough designation from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and ARIAD recently commenced submission of a New Drug Application for initial approval in patients who have experienced crizotinib failure. In June, the FDA cleared brigatinib for an Expanded Access Program (EAP), also called “compassionate use,” a special program allowing manufacturers to provide investigational new drugs to patients with serious diseases or conditions who cannot participate in another clinical trial. The EAP for brigatinib will provide the drug candidate to patients who have experienced failure of at least one prior ALK inhibitor, who cannot meet eligibility criteria for other trials due to a variety of reasons such as poor performance status, lack of geographic proximity, or because other medical interventions are not considered appropriate or acceptable.
“Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and is extremely difficult to treat because there are so many different mutations,” explained Raymond Wadlow, M.D., medical oncologist and co-director of the VCS Research Institute. “The brigatinib Phase III clinical trial may eventually provide a potential new therapy for patients with ALK+ NSCLC, an area where more innovative therapies are desperately needed to improve response rates. Meanwhile, the Expanded Access Program will give another option to patients who have experienced failure of another TKI, offering the potential opportunity for improved outcomes to patients who are battling this complex disease.”
Patients 18 years or older with locally advanced and/or metastatic ALK+ NSCLC who are interested in participating in the clinical trial or Expanded Access Program for brigatinib can contact the VCS Research Institute at (703) 208-3192 to learn more about the criteria for participation.
The VCS Research Institute is a valuable resource for the regional medical community and is well-respected among referring physicians, patients and payers who recognize the practice’s long-standing commitment to provide the very latest treatment options to patients. Drs. Spira and Wadlow oversee a team of highly-skilled oncology research professionals who work with VCS oncologists to provide clinical trials at six convenient treatment sites throughout the area.
“We are extremely proud to conduct and enroll the very first patient in the world in the brigatinib clinical trial, as it demonstrates our leadership role in bringing exciting new therapies to cancer patients, not only in our local community, but across the global cancer community as well,” noted Karin Choquette, MSN, RN, CCRC, clinical research manager at VCS. “We are committed to leading the way in the fight against cancer while providing our patients access to the world’s most advanced cancer treatments and cutting-edge clinical trials.”
About Virginia Cancer Specialists
For more than 40 years, Virginia Cancer Specialists has contributed to the campaign against cancer and diseases of the blood. VCS has nine locations throughout Northern Virginia staffed by more than 30 highly-skilled physicians, each delivering exceptional care. The practice has built a world-class treatment team of cancer specialists, as well as acquiring the very latest treatment technology to help achieve the best outcomes for patients. VCS unites medical, radiation, and orthopedic oncologists, hematologists, oncology nurse navigators, oncology infusion nurses, radiation therapists, genetic counselors, oncology pharmacists and laboratory technicians, all working together as a team to design the optimal multidisciplinary treatment program, efficiently sharing knowledge, executing the treatment plan, and providing a patient-centered, consumer-friendly approach to cancer care. Patients receive the full spectrum of high-quality care necessary to treat their disease from a care team united in their effort to provide each patient with the specific personalized care they need to battle cancer.
Virginia Cancer Specialists has a well-established, comprehensive clinical research program and is one of the only fully staffed cancer centers committed to research in Northern Virginia. The practice has access to hundreds of innovative clinical trials through its affiliation with The US Oncology Network, one of the nation’s largest associations of community-based oncologists and a leader in the advancement of cancer research and treatment. The US Oncology Network conducts clinical research through US Oncology Research, which has played a role in approximately 60 FDA-approved cancer therapies. US Oncology Research manages about 300 active trials at any given time, and VCS participates in many of them, testing new leading-edge drugs or various combinations of treatments for cancer and blood disorders. To learn more about Virginia Cancer Specialists, please visit www.VirginiaCancerSpecialists.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements by or about ARIAD Pharmaceuticals, Inc., each of which is qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement. Any statements contained herein which do not describe historical facts, including, but not limited to statements regarding design, enrollment and anticipated timing for the Phase III clinical trial of brigatinib; the therapeutic potential for brigatinib; and the statements made by Dr. Clackson, are forward-looking statements that are based on ARIAD management’s expectations and are subject to certain factors, risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, outcome of events, timing and performance to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These factors, risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, ARIAD’s ability to successfully commercialize and generate profits from sales of Iclusig and its product candidates, if approved; competition from alternative therapies; ARIAD’s ability to meet anticipated clinical trial commencement, enrollment and completion dates and regulatory filing dates for its products and product candidates and to move new development candidates into the clinic; ARIAD’s ability to execute on its key corporate initiatives; regulatory developments and safety issues, including difficulties or delays in obtaining regulatory and pricing and reimbursement approvals to market its products; ARIAD’s reliance on the performance of third-party manufacturers and specialty pharmacies for the supply and distribution of its products and product candidates; the occurrence of adverse safety events with ARIAD’s products and product candidates; the costs associated with ARIAD’s research, development, manufacturing, commercialization and other activities; the conduct, timing and results of preclinical and clinical studies of ARIAD’s products and product candidates, including that preclinical data and early-stage clinical data may not be replicated in later-stage clinical studies; the adequacy of ARIAD’s capital resources and the availability of additional funding; the ability to satisfy ARIAD’s contractual obligations, including under its leases, convertible debt and royalty financing agreements; patent protection and third-party intellectual property claims; litigation; ARIAD’s operations in foreign countries; risks related to ARIAD’s key employees, markets, economic conditions, health care reform, prices and reimbursement rates; and other risk factors detailed in ARIAD’s public filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Except as otherwise noted, these forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and ARIAD undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of these statements to reflect events or circumstances occurring after this press release. ARIAD cautions investors not to place considerable reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.
Media Contact
Claire Crye
US Oncology Research
281-825-9927
Claire.Crye@usoncology.com
Training program provides OCM tools, technology and experience, preparing practice teams for July 1st go-live
The Woodlands, Texas (June 8, 2016) — Key personnel from practices within The US Oncology Network that were selected to participate in the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation’s (CMMI) Oncology Care Model (OCM) gathered last month in The Woodlands, Texas, for a special OCM boot camp. The intensive two-day training program, attended by physicians, administrators and clinical staff, was designed to deliver expertise and share ideas for success from The US Oncology Network leadership and practice teams as they implement changes for the OCM July 1st go-live. The training seminar was a collaborative effort of The US Oncology Network and McKesson Specialty Health.
“The OCM is a transformative program that will lead us to what we are calling Patient Care 2.0,” said Marcus Neubauer, M.D., medical director of Oncology Services for McKesson Specialty Health and The US Oncology Network. “We are excited about the many positive aspects of the OCM, and we believe that support from The Network and McKesson will enable community oncology practices to thrive as they transition to this new era of cancer care.”
The voluntary Oncology Care Model is a payment and care delivery program that promotes value-based care by supporting the delivery of enhanced oncology services for patients through aligned financial incentives and accountability for episodes of care involving chemotherapy. Its goal is to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of cancer care, resulting in better care, smarter spending and healthier patients. The US Oncology Network-affiliated practices participating in the program were selected by the CMMI after a rigorous application process that included demonstrating the ability to meet new quality reporting metrics, along with other detailed requirements designed to drive cost-effective, high-quality care. To succeed in the OCM, oncology practices will have to undergo substantial changes in how they deliver and document care, requiring major adjustments in many clinical and operational areas.
“The OCM requires significant practice transformation,” noted Diana Verrilli, vice president and general manager of Payer & Provider Solutions for McKesson Specialty Health. “Our goal is to prepare The Network-affiliated practices to successfully manage this transformation by providing innovative tools, technology and experience to support them as they launch the OCM and move forward with it. The boot camp gave us the opportunity to demonstrate these resources while also giving attendees a chance to see the tools and hear from the sites that have been piloting them so they have experiences to bring back to their practices. The preparation will be invaluable during the transition from fee-for-service payments to value-based care.”
Over the past several months, McKesson Specialty Health’s comprehensive OCM solutions have been extensively tested and refined in value-based care settings at three pilot sites in The US Oncology Network, providing valuable information that was shared at the boot camp. Key topics discussed during the meeting included: the importance of ensuring that all staff understand the OCM and their role in it; adhering to quality metrics; patient education, eligibility and enrollment; billing for monthly enhanced oncology services; critical processes such as patient navigation, 24/7 access to care and symptom management; team care and communication; the OCM technology platform roadmap; and strategies to manage barriers to success.
“The OCM is very complex and requires major changes for practices, which can be quite disruptive to care delivery if not done properly,” explained Heather Morel, chief operating officer for The US Oncology Network. “It was very helpful to have this meeting to get an in-depth look at the tools and technologies that The US Oncology Network has created and to have the experts close at hand to guide us on their use. It was also a great confidence builder to hear from the pilot sites that have helped refine these solutions to successfully launch the OCM in their practices.”
About The US Oncology Network
The US Oncology Network is one of the nation’s largest networks of integrated, community-based oncology practices dedicated to advancing high-quality, evidence-based cancer care. A physician-led organization, The US Oncology Network unites like-minded physicians and clinicians around a common vision of improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Leveraging healthcare information technology, shared best practices, evidence-based guidelines and quality measurements, physicians within The US Oncology Network are pioneering new ways to achieve this vision. The US Oncology Network is committed to strengthening patient access to integrated care in local communities across the nation, including collaboration with a variety of payers, hospitals and academic institutions. The US Oncology Network is supported by McKesson Specialty Health, a division of McKesson Corporation focused on empowering a vibrant and sustainable community patient care delivery system. For more information, visit www.usoncology.com.
About McKesson Specialty Health
McKesson Specialty Health, a division of McKesson Corporation, empowers the community patient care delivery system by helping community practices advance the science, technology and quality of care. Through innovative clinical, research, business and operational solutions, facilitated by integrated technology systems, we focus on improving the financial health of our customers so they may provide the best care to their patients. For more information, visit www.mckessonspecialtyhealth.com.
Media Contact
Claire Crye
The US Oncology Network
281-825-9927
Claire.Crye@usoncology.com
Dallas-area facility represents the leading edge of precision proton therapy treatment
IRVING, Texas (May 9, 2016) — Texas Center for Proton Therapy and IBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A.), the world’s leading provider of proton therapy solutions for the treatment of cancer, announce the first patient treated in North America with the center’s high-precision tandem of isocentric cone-beam CT (CBCT) guidance and pencil-beam scanning in a 360° Proteus®PLUS gantry.
Pencil-beam scanning radiates tumors with an ultra-fine proton beam that requires precise positioning of the patient to ensure treatment accuracy. IBA’s ProteusPLUS 360º gantry allows the acquisition of CBCT volumetric imaging at isocenter to assure precise patient positioning that effectively leverages the power of pencil-beam scanning to provide the most accurate proton therapy treatment available. This unique combination of technologies allows Texas Center for Proton Therapy to provide treatment for indications demanding the utmost precision, while leading the way to adaptive proton therapy and improved patient outcomes.
The multi-room ProteusPLUS installation at Texas Center for Proton Therapy has been in clinical operation since November 2015 and represents the fastest ramp-up from ground-breaking to robust patient treatment volumes. The center’s skilled staff, combining more than 75 years of cumulative proton experience, has created a workflow that optimizes efficiency and patient comfort, while delivering outstanding clinical care with the most reliable equipment on the market.
Andrew K. Lee, M.D., M.P.H., and Medical Director at Texas Center for Proton Therapy, commented:
“The combination of volumetric CBCT image guidance and pencil-beam scanning begins a new era in proton therapy. This will allow proton therapy to help a wider range of cancer patients while improving the treatment for currently treated indications. This vital technology will help fulfill our joint mission to protect, enhance, and save lives.”
Beth Klein, President of IBA Proton Therapy North America, added:
“Texas Center for Proton Therapy has implemented a powerful clinical tool in the fight against cancer and IBA is a proud partner in their effort to deliver advanced proton therapy treatment and improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.”
About Texas Center for Proton Therapy
Texas Center for Proton Therapy is the North Texas region’s first proton therapy center. The center features latest-generation technology, including pencil-beam scanning and image-guided proton therapy, providing precise radiation treatment with the opportunity to reduce side effects. Texas Oncology and The US Oncology Network, supported by McKesson Specialty Health, and Baylor Health Enterprises, an affiliate of Baylor Health Care System, collaborated to develop the proton therapy facility in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Opened in late 2015, the facility provides advanced cancer treatment through Texas Oncology, an independent oncology practice and pioneer of community-based cancer care. For more information, visit: www.TexasCenterforProtonTherapy.com or call 469-513-5500.
About IBA
IBA (Ion Beam Applications S.A.) is a global medical technology company focused on bringing integrated and innovative solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The Company is the worldwide technology leader in the field of proton therapy, the most advanced form of radiation therapy available today. IBA’s proton therapy solutions are flexible and adaptable, allowing customers to choose from universal full scale proton therapy centers as well as compact, single room systems. In addition, IBA also has a radiation dosimetry business and develops particle accelerators for the medical world and industry.
Headquartered in Belgium and employing about 1,200 people worldwide, IBA has installed systems across the world, from Europe and the US and to the emerging markets. IBA is listed on the pan-European stock exchange EURONEXT. (IBA: Reuters IBAB.BR and Bloomberg IBAB.BB) and more information can be found at: www.iba-worldwide.com
About the Collaboration
Texas Oncology and The US Oncology Network, supported by McKesson Specialty Health, and Baylor Health Enterprises, an affiliate of Baylor Health Care System, are collaborating to develop a proton therapy facility in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. The advanced treatment facility will provide services through Texas Oncology, an independent oncology practice based in Dallas with locations throughout Texas and southeastern Oklahoma. Texas Oncology is affiliated with The US Oncology Network, which includes physician-owned community-based oncology practices across the country.
Media Contact
Jason Roberson
214-665-1328
Jason.Roberson@fleishman.com
Experts will discuss cancer prevention and offer free prostate cancer screenings at the April 30th event
Columbia, Missouri (March 14, 2016) ― Providers from Missouri Cancer Associates (MCA) and Urology Associates of Central Missouri (UACM), practices in The US Oncology Network, will be among the featured speakers providing information about cancer prevention and offering free cancer screenings at Boone Hospital Center’s upcoming Cancer Fair. The Cancer Fair, which is free of charge and open to the public, will be held on Saturday, April 30, 2016, from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm in the main lobby of Boone Hospital Center in Columbia.
“We strive to contribute to the local community through education and public outreach by participating in local events like the Cancer Fair,” said Gregory Biedermann, M.D., radiation oncologist at Missouri Cancer Associates and a featured speaker at the Fair. “Finding cancer early gives patients the best chance for a good outcome, so it is important to do these screening events and have discussions about cancer prevention to raise awareness about this potentially deadly disease that touches so many people in our area.”
Presentations begin at 9:00 am with Gloria Drouin, a nurse practitioner with Missouri Cancer Associates, who will present information about breast and testicular cancer. Drouin has been a nurse practitioner for the past 18 years and has extensive experience in cancer. Her presentation will be followed by Dr. Biedermann’s at 9:30 am. He will discuss radiation therapy and new technologies. Dr. Biedermann has ten years of diverse experience in radiation oncology treating a wide range of cancers. At 10:00 am, Michael Hoeh, M.D., urologist with Urology Associates of Central Missouri, will discuss prostate screening and education. Dr. Hoeh has extensive training in minimally invasive surgery and is well versed in the latest advances in urologic cancers. A question and answer session will be held after the presentations.
In addition to Dr. Hoeh’s talk, Urology Associates of Central Missouri will also be offering free prostate cancer screenings for men over the age of 50, including free PSA blood tests that can detect prostate cancer early. No reservation is needed. Other healthcare professionals will be providing free skin cancer screening and pulmonary function testing, as well as presenting information on lung cancer screenings and smoking cessation. Staff will also be available to assist in scheduling mammograms and colon screenings. To help the public better understand the importance of colon screenings, an inflatable walk-through colon will be on display.
“We encourage everyone to attend the Cancer Fair to learn more about cancer prevention and screening tests,” said Dr. Hoeh. “There are some lifestyle changes people can make that will significantly reduce their risk of getting the disease, and events like the Cancer Fair help spread the word that we can be proactive and reduce our cancer risk.”
For more information about the presentations and screenings offered by Missouri Cancer Associates and Urology Associates of Central Missouri, please call 1-866-724-2413 for MCA and 573-499-4990 for UACM. For general information about the Cancer Fair, contact Boone Hospital Center at 1-800-872-9005.
About Missouri Cancer Associates and Urology Associates of Central Missouri
Missouri Cancer Associates (MCA) is the largest oncology group in mid-Missouri and offers patients advanced comprehensive care from their new state-of-the-art facility in Columbia, as well as a treatment center in Kirksville. MCA has 16 cancer physicians on staff and offers a full range of hematologic care, chemotherapy and radiation services, laboratory and diagnostic testing delivered by compassionate, caring professionals dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal outcomes. The practice prides itself in offering the latest technologies to diagnose and treat cancer, including PET/CT and a full range of advanced radiation therapies. In 2014, Urology Associates of Central Missouri, a leading provider of urology services in the region, joined MCA, adding eight highly credentialed and experienced urologists to the practice. Urology Associates of Central Missouri offers the very latest treatment options and technologies, such as robotic and minimally invasive surgery. The practice is committed to providing compassionate, quality, state-of-the-art urological care in a prompt and courteous manner. To learn more visit www.missouricancer.com and www.mo-urology.com.
Missouri Cancer Associates is united in healing with The US Oncology Network, one of the nation’s largest networks of integrated community-based oncology practices dedicated to advancing high-quality, evidence-based cancer care. As an affiliate of The US Oncology Network, MCA is united with 1,000 physicians nationwide. For more information, visit www.usoncology.com.
Media Contact
Claire Crye
The US Oncology Network
(281) 825-9927
Claire.Crye@usoncology.com
