Oncology-Hematology Clinic in Meridian Rebrands to Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists

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Summit Cancer Centers rebrands part of the practice to Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists
to better serve local cancer patients.

MERIDIAN, Idaho, September 12, 2022 – Medical Oncologist Dr. Stephanie Hodson announced the rebranding of her practice from Summit Cancer Centers to Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists. The clinic changed its name on September 12 and is accepting new patients.

Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists is one of 25 practices that are part of the American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), a growing national network of community-based oncology practices, that has access to resources and support to ensure patients continue to receive high-quality cancer care within their own community. The clinic is located at 2855 E. Magic View Drive, Suite B, and delivers personalized oncology and hematology care.

The practice is equipped to deliver the latest care and treatments for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders and has been specifically designed to deliver patient care in an environment that promotes health and wellness. Services provided at the clinic are vast and include an in-house lab and pathology, a specialty pharmacy, chemotherapy, care management and financial counseling. The clinic also offers Paxman scalp cooling for hair-loss prevention during chemotherapy treatment.

“The Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists brand captures the beauty that is Idaho and is an ode to the state’s gem heritage,” said Dr. Hodson. “Being born and raised in Idaho, it is an honor to serve my community in such a way that brings about improved health outcomes for those fighting cancer and blood disorder diagnoses.”

Boise native Dr. Stephanie Hodson is a Board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist. She brings over 20 years’ experience treating various malignancies and hematologic disorders. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Washington and completed her fellowship training in medical oncology and hematology at Oregon Health Sciences University. Joining her at Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists is certified physician assistant Katherine Mondada.

“The growth and expansion of Dr. Hodson’s practice to Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists show the level of commitment to delivering cancer care options to the residents of Meridian, Boise and surrounding communities,” said AON Chief Executive Officer Todd Schonherz. “We look forward to continuing to support Dr. Hodson in her initiatives to deliver top-notch care and services to her patients.”

To learn more about Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists, visit www.GemStateCancerBloodSpecialists.com.

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About Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists
Specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and blood disorders, Gem State Cancer & Blood Specialists providers have been serving patients in the Meridian and Boise, Idaho, areas for more than 20 years. As a community-based practice, we offer a full range of exceptional cancer services, providing the highest quality treatment based on research and focused on the whole person.

About American Oncology Network, LLC
The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), an Inc. 5000-recognized company, is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly expanding AON network represents 108 physicians and 89 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states. The executive management team of AON encompasses more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most — providing the highest quality care for patients.

The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care.

AON also provides a unique model of physician-led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences are at the very pinnacle of cancer care today. Learn more at aoncology.com.

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of  Marketing
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

Impressive Results with Oncology Care Model Confirm American Oncology Network at the Forefront of Patient-Centered Cancer Care

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Practices using the value-based care approach improved patient care while saving costs.

FORT MYERS, Fla., August 22, 2022 – The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), a fast-growing network of community-based oncology practices, is excited to report its successes as an active participant in the Oncology Care Model (OCM). These results come a few weeks after the OCM’s discontinuation on June 30, 2022.

Nineteen AON community oncology clinics were part of the initial 200 practices across the nation that were approved to participate in the OCM after successfully meeting the criteria required by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in 2018. These clinics were Medicare-enrolled providers whose practices 1) offered advanced patient services such as patient navigation functions, comprehensive care plans containing the 13 components of the Institute of Medicine Care Management Plan, around-the-clock access to a care manager or appropriate member of the care team, and nationally-recognized therapy treatments; 2) utilized data to improve care services and care quality; and 3) used electronic health records.

AON delivered the OCM through their in-house Care Management Program that is founded on the value-based care model and an integrated system of seamless communication, coordination and patient care for better health outcomes. Upon closure of the OCM, AON achieved significant improvements in overall patient care and cost expenditure for its practices operating under the OCM’s “two-sided risk” model.

AON’s OCM practices reported a 2.6% decrease in expenditures compared to other OCM practices and a 4.9% decrease in expenditures compared to all practices providing cancer care.

Participation in the OCM increased patient satisfaction, reduced emergency room visits leading to hospital admission by 14.69% and inpatient admissions by 7.8%, enhanced care equity, and improved efficiency in care coordination.

Additionally, AON reported a reduction in waste and unnecessary expenses as a result of its implementation of the tools and technologies designed to support effective decision-making. These consisted of an internal formulary navigator that assisted with value-based clinical pathway and regimen selection, the use of data analytics to determine process and cost savings opportunities, and the reliance on electronic medical records (EMR).

“We are excited to see these particular improvements in the areas of healthcare service and delivery,” said AON Chief Executive Officer Todd Schonherz. “It shows how the industry as a whole is making great strides to bring accessible and affordable care to all and is working toward the value-based care model that we, at AON, believe in.”

Other key achievements reported by AON practices included OCM quality scores exceeding 90% as well as:

  • A 6.1% decrease in the costs of total care.
  • A 28% decrease in AON facilities’ inpatient expenses.
  • An increase in the use of biosimilar drugs and a decrease in patient prescription expenses.

“We have witnessed positive outcomes and experiences — for both our practices and patients — who operate under the OCM. The program allowed our physicians to deliver better care and services at decreased costs to our Medicare beneficiaries,” said Dr. Stephen “Fred” Divers, AON chief medical officer and medical oncologist at Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute. “Oncology care can be a financial burden for many, and the OCM provided an episode-based payment system that helped cap healthcare costs while maintaining the quality of care being delivered.”

The OCM is a program developed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (CMS Innovation Center) with the goal to decrease healthcare costs for Medicare-specific patients undergoing either chemotherapy or hormonal therapy as treatment. The program emphasized care quality over care quantity, encouraging physicians to adopt the patient-first mentality. An average cost savings of $297 less per six-month episode was recorded for all participating Medicare patients and providers.

“Being a part of the OCM has motivated us to continue delivering the same quality of care and follow the same processes despite the program’s end,” said Roberta Kafora, senior director of nursing, care management and value-based care at AON. “We are excited about the next step in our value-based care initiative, the Principal Care Management Program, that we officially launched on July 1, 2022.” 

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About American Oncology Network, LLC
The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly expanding AON network represents 108 physicians and 86 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states . The executive management team of AON encompasses more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most — providing the highest quality care for patients.

The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care.

AON also provides a unique model of physician-led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences are at the very pinnacle of cancer care today. Learn more at AONcology.com.

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

American Oncology Network Ranks No. 107 on the 2022 Inc. 5000 Annual List

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AON receives ranking no. 107 among America’s fastest-growing private companies
and no. eight among health services.

FORT MYERS, Fla., August 18, 2022 – Earlier this week, Inc. 5000 announced that the American Oncology Network, a fast-growing network of community oncology practices, is ranked number 107 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. AON also received the number eight position in the health services category.

The list represents a one-of-a-kind look at the most successful companies within the economy’s most dynamic segment — its independent businesses. Facebook, Chobani, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

“We are honored to be recognized as one of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies by Inc.,” said AON Chief Executive Officer Todd Schonherz. “At AON, we believe the key to accessible and equitable healthcare lies in the strength of community healthcare practices, which is why we strive to support community oncology practices, large and small. This recognition is a reminder that we are taking the right steps in forwarding our mission by providing support and resources for hometown oncology practices and breaking down barriers to cancer care.”

The companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list are not only successful, but also demonstrate resilience amid supply chain woes, labor shortages and the ongoing impact of COVID-19. Among the top 500, the average median three-year revenue growth rate soared to 2,144 percent. Together, those companies added more than 68,394 jobs over the past three years.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc. magazine, which will be available on August 23.

“The accomplishment of building one of the fastest-growing companies in the U.S., in light of recent economic roadblocks, cannot be overstated,” says Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. “Inc. is thrilled to honor the companies that have established themselves through innovation, hard work and rising to the challenges of today.”

“We are excited to celebrate receiving this esteemed award with our physicians, practices, team members and patients,” said Schonherz. “I’d like to extend an additional congratulations to all companies that are on this year’s Inc. 5000 list.”

For more information about AON, visit https://www.aoncology.com/.

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About American Oncology Network, LLC
The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly expanding AON network represents 108 physicians and 86 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states . The executive management team of AON encompasses more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most — providing the highest quality care for patients.

The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care.

AON also provides a unique model of physician-led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences are at the very pinnacle of cancer care today. Learn more at AONcology.com.

More about Inc. and the Inc. 5000
Methodology
Companies on the 2022 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2018 to 2021. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2018. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent—not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies—as of December 31, 2021. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2018 is $100,000; the minimum for 2021 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine company rankings were calculated to four decimal places. The top 500 companies on the Inc. 5000 are featured in Inc. magazine’s September issue. The entire Inc. 5000 can be found at https://www.inc.com/inc5000.

About Inc.
The world’s most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

For more information on the Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala, visit https://conference.inc.com/.

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

American Oncology Network Comments Against CMS’ 2023
Outpatient Prospective Payment System

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The new proposal will have grave effects on the sustainability of community oncology practices.

FORT MYERS, Fla., August 15, 2022 – The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced its proposed CY 2023 Outpatient Prospective Payment System (OPPS), which has sparked concern for the community-oncology advocate American Oncology Network (AON).

Despite the Biden-Harris Administration’s goal of increasing health equity across all geographies, promoting healthy competition throughout the healthcare industry and driving toward value-based and patient-centered care, CMS’ proposal for 2023 will undoubtedly cripple community healthcare practices.

Most concerning for community-based practices are the increase in the 340B drug pricing to the average sale price plus 6% and the rise in Medicare reimbursement rates of 2.7%. While practices affiliated with healthcare systems and hospitals reap the benefits of the OPPS proposals, independent community practices will have to reduce their payment rates to maintain neutrality and receive a decrease in Medicare payments — limiting their ability to continue providing quality care, services and medications to their patients.

“For more rural practices, like many of the community oncology practices we support, these are alarming recommendations,” said AON Chief Executive Offer Todd Schonherz. “If these actions come to fruition in 2023, they have the potential to threaten the success and growth of small-town clinics, which will then suffer financially and struggle to effectively compete with larger practices and healthcare systems that qualify under 340B.”

“Community-based clinics provide high-quality care, services and resources that are affordable and accessible,” said AON Chief Medical Officer and Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute medical oncologist Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD. “These practices are critical players in closing the cancer care gap and driving healthcare equity. If they do not receive the support needed to continue providing care in their communities, our healthcare system has done a disservice to them and failed.”

CMS is accepting comments on the proposed OPPS through September 13, 2022 and the final ruling is scheduled for November 2022.

“We encourage practices, providers and networks to comment against the proposed OPPS to safeguard community-based care and keep healthcare affordable and accessible,” said Divers.

For more information about CMS’ 2023 OPPS, visit https://www.cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/cy-2023-medicare-hospital-outpatient-prospective-payment-system-and-ambulatory-surgical-center.

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About American Oncology Network, LLC
The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly expanding AON network represents 108 physicians and 86 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states . The executive management team of AON encompasses more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most — providing the highest quality care for patients.

The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care.

AON also provides a unique model of physician-led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences are at the very pinnacle of cancer care today. Learn more at AONcology.com.

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

American Oncology Network and Cancer & Blood Specialists of Arizona Welcome Samrat Sanghvi, MD

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Casa Grande, Ariz., August 3, 2022 – The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) and Drs. Carlos Arce-Lara and Ramon Mourelo of Cancer & Blood Specialists of Arizona (CBSA), are pleased to announce that radiation oncologist Samrat Sanghvi, MD, has joined the AON community oncology practice in Casa Grande.

Dr. Sanghvi earned his Doctor of Medicine at Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, DC, where he received the Warwick Evans Radiation Oncology Award. He then completed an internship in internal medicine at the Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond and a residency in radiation oncology at Loma Linda University in California.

While at Loma Linda, he served as Chief Resident of the Radiation Oncology program. He also had the opportunity to experience international radiation oncology in Germany and more recently, volunteering in a radiation oncology clinic in Nepal.

“We are excited to have Dr. Sanghvi join our practice. He treats a wide range of cancers as well as benign conditions and has extensive experience with Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy treatments,” said CBSA medical oncologist Dr. Carlos Arce-Lara.

CBSA has numerous locations across the state and continues to grow. The practice currently consists of nineteen providers including seven medical oncologists, two gynecologic oncologists, a radiation oncologist, a general surgeon and eight nurse practitioners.

“Radiation therapy is an important weapon in the battle against cancer. Having Dr. Sanghvi join the team with his expertise will benefit not only the Casa Grande community but the entire network of community oncology practices,” said AON President and Chief Development Officer Brad Prechtl, MBA.

“We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Sanghvi,” added AON Chief Executive Officer Todd Schonherz. “The Casa Grande practice brings together multispecialty services including medical, surgical, radiation oncology, nutrition and others. It is the only facility in all of Pinal County providing true comprehensive, multidisciplinary cancer care. The collaborative environment is designed to make cancer care more accessible and easier for patients, enabling them to stay in Case Grande for treatment, instead of traveling to institutions in other cities.”

Dr. Sanghvi will begin on August 3 and is accepting new patients.

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About Cancer & Blood Specialists of Arizona: (CancerBloodSpecialistsAZ.com)
Cancer & Blood Specialists of Arizona is a community-based Medical Oncology and Hematology, Gynecologic Oncology, Radiation Oncology and General Surgery practice providing treatment for patients diagnosed with all types of cancer and blood disorders. We are experienced physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and clinical support staff providing compassionate, patient-centered care in Phoenix, Flagstaff and Casa Grande, Arizona, and surrounding areas. Our physicians have deep roots in the communities we serve delivering the highest quality cancer treatment that is based on cutting-edge research.

About American Oncology Network, LLC: (AONcology.com)
American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly expanding AON network represents 108 physicians and 89 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states. The executive management team of AON encompasses more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest quality care for patients.

The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care.

AON also provides a unique model of physician led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences will be at the very pinnacle of cancer care today.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

New Location, Same Dedicated Care:
Waverly Hematology Oncology Announces Relocation of Clinic

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Community oncology clinic relocates to continue providing enhanced cancer care to Wake County.

CARY, N.C., (August 2, 2022) – Community oncology practice Waverly Hematology Oncology (Waverly) announces the relocation of its clinic to 210 Ashville Avenue, Suite 440, in Cary effective August 1, 2022. The clinic will begin seeing patients, new and existing, starting August 2, 2022, at the new location.

“Our relocation comes from our steadfast growth and commitment to providing our patients with an environment that allows us to be patient-centered in our care approach,” said Dr. Mark Graham, leading medical oncologist and hematologist at Waverly. “We have been a part of Wake County for 18 years and are honored to continue serving our town and patients at our new clinic.”

Waverly’s new location, which is only a two-minute drive from the practice’s current location, is situated in the Medical Park of Cary, which houses other healthcare practices including complimentary care and services for oncology patients. The space has been designed specifically for delivering personalized cancer care to oncology and hematology patients.

“Great dedication has been taken during the setup process to ensure the space is well equipped to treat multiple cancer diagnoses and is an environment that inspires healing and wellness,” said Graham. “Cancer treatment can be an uncomfortable experience and physically and mentally taxing for patients, their families and their caregivers. We want to ensure that everyone who walks into our clinic feels a sense of peace and at home, which is the beauty and mission of community oncology.”

Waverly is a partner of the American Oncology Network (AON), which is an expanding network of community oncology practices across the United States. Since 2004, the clinic has offered medical oncology, chemotherapy, infusion therapy, laboratory services and an on-site pharmacy.

The practice also houses the oldest cancer genetics clinic in the county and is home to the area’s first formal cancer Survivor Clinic that serves over 2,000 breast cancer survivors and those at high risk for developing the disease. These services will continue to be available at the new location.

“We extend our appreciation to and applaud Waverly Hematology Oncology for their unwavering commitment to their community,” said AON Chief Executive Officer Todd Schonherz. “The relocation of their practice to a space that helps them deliver top-notch cancer care and treatment exemplifies their dedication to their patients as well as their mission to enhancing oncology in Cary and the surrounding communities.”

For more information about Waverly, visit www.waverlyhematologyoncology.com. For more information about AON, visit www.aoncology.com.

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About Waverly Hematology Oncology
Waverly Hematology Oncology (Waverly) offers centralized easy access to cancer care for Cary, North Carolina patients and is conveniently located at the intersection of two major highways, Route 1 and Highway 64 (Tryon Road). In private practice since 2004, Waverly represents one medical oncologist four physician assistants and a team of over 40 employees, 17 of which have over 10 years of employment. A community-based practice, Waverly offers medical oncology, chemotherapy, infusion therapy, laboratory services, an on-site pharmacy and has the oldest cancer genetics clinic in Wake County. For over 30 years Dr. Graham has been an active clinical investigator through the NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP), a cancer clinical trials network in the U.S., leading in patient accrual and data. Waverly is also the only Triangle site of the Southeast Clinical Oncology Research (SCOR), representing over 20 communities in six states. Waverly expanded the practice in 2015 and opened the first formal Cancer Survivorship Clinic in the county that now includes over 2,000 breast cancer survivors and those at high risk for breast cancer.

For over 30 years Dr. Graham has been an active clinical investigator through the NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP), a cancer clinical trials network in the U.S., leading in patient accrual and data. Waverly is also the only Triangle site of the Southeast Clinical Oncology Research (SCOR), representing over 20 communities in six states.

Waverly expanded the practice in 2015 and opened the first formal Cancer Survivorship Clinic in the county that now includes over 2,000 breast cancer survivors and those at high risk for breast cancer.

About American Oncology Network, LLC
The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly expanding AON network represents 108 physicians and 89 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states. The executive management team of AON encompasses more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most — providing the highest quality care for patients. The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care. AON also provides a unique model of physician-led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences are at the very pinnacle of cancer care today. Learn more at aoncology.com.

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

American Oncology Network and Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute Welcome Kristen Sager, MD

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Hot Springs, Ark., Aug. 1, 2022 – Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute (Genesis), an American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) partner, is pleased to announce that medical oncologist Kristen Sager, MD, has joined the community oncology practice in Hot Springs. She will work alongside Drs. Timothy Webb, Robert Muldoon, Stephen “Fred” Divers, Lynn Cleveland, Lingyi Chen and Sunil Kakadia.

Dr. Sager received her medical degree from Louisiana State University Medical Center and completed her internal medicine residency followed by a hematology-oncology fellowship at Texas A&M College of Medicine. Dr. Sager specializes in all cancer types and blood disorders and will be providing care at the Mena and Russellville clinics.

“We are excited to have Dr. Sager join our practice. She loves the relationships that can be built with patients and their families in a small town and is passionate about bringing the newest and best cancer treatments to these communities,” said Genesis medical oncologist Dr. Timothy Webb.

The Genesis team now consists of seven medical oncologists and six advanced practice providers across the 10 Arkansas locations. The practice is committed to providing the community with innovative cancer care that is delivered holistically and based on research and evidence-based medicine. Through these services, cancer patients have access to a diverse range of services for diagnosis, treatment, clinical trials, survivorship and patient support that is close to home, limiting their need to travel far to receive care.

“Dr. Sager treats each patient and their family with the same enthusiasm and compassion she would have for her own family. She comforts them during what is a very frightening moment in their lives, and they appreciate the one-on-one attention,” said AON President and Chief Development Officer Brad Prechtl, MBA.

“We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Sager,” added AON Chief Executive Officer Todd Schonherz. “The field of oncology is constantly evolving, and she is committed to providing her patients the most up-to-date treatments available.”

Dr. Sager will begin on August 1 and is accepting new patients.

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About Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute: (GenesisCancerBlood.com)
Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and hematology, Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute is recognized for providing expert cancer care in Arkansas. The highly trained physicians, clinicians and staff are committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for their patients. The medical oncology/hematology physicians at Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute include Dr. R. Timothy Webb, Dr. Robert T. Muldoon, Dr. Stephen “Fred” Divers, Dr. A. Lynn Cleveland, Dr. Lingyi Chen, Dr. Sunil Kakadia and Dr. Kristen Sager.

About American Oncology Network, LLC: (AONcology.com)
American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly expanding AON network represents 108 physicians and 89 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states. The executive management team of AON encompasses more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest quality care for patients.

The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care.

AON also provides a unique model of physician-led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences will be at the very pinnacle of cancer care today.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

American Oncology Network and Cancer & Blood Specialists of Arizona Welcome Sarah Conlon, MD

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Flagstaff, Ariz., Aug. 1, 2022 – The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) and Dr. Peter Mathern of Cancer & Blood Specialists of Arizona (CBSA) are pleased to announce that medical oncologist Sarah Conlon, MD, has joined the AON community oncology practice in Flagstaff.

Dr. Conlon received her medical degree from the University of Vermont followed by an internal medicine internship and residency at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. She then completed a hematology-oncology fellowship at the University of California Davis.

“We are excited to have Dr. Conlon join our practice. Though her specialty is breast cancer, she has extensive experience treating and caring for every type of blood and cancer patient,” said Dr. Peter Mathern, a medical oncologist at CBSA.

CBSA offers advanced, comprehensive cancer care for patients in Flagstaff, the surrounding Indian Reservations and Northern Arizona. The clinic provides infusion therapy, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy; an in-house laboratory performing all routine blood work; and an in-house specialty pharmacy. Additionally, CBSA patients have access to care management support including nutrition guidance and financial counseling.

“Dr. Conlon is passionate about providing patient-centered care. She applies and uses the most up-to-date scientific knowledge to obtain the best results with the least side effects for each patient she serves,” said AON President and Chief Development Officer Brad Prechtl, MBA.

“We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Conlon. She has vast experience in all areas of blood and cancer care having practiced oncology for close to 15 years,” added AON Chief Executive Officer Todd Schonherz.

Dr. Conlon will start August 1 and is accepting new patients.

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About Cancer & Blood Specialists of Arizona: (CancerBloodSpecialistsAZ.com)
Cancer & Blood Specialists of Arizona is a community-based Medical Oncology and Hematology, Gynecologic Oncology, Radiation Oncology and General Surgery practice providing treatment for patients diagnosed with all types of cancer and blood disorders. We are experienced physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and clinical support staff providing compassionate, patient-centered care in Phoenix, Flagstaff and Casa Grande, Arizona, and surrounding areas. Our physicians have deep roots in the communities we serve delivering the highest quality cancer treatment that is based on cutting-edge research.

About American Oncology Network, LLC: (AONcology.com)
American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly expanding AON network represents 108 physicians and 89 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states. The executive management team of AON encompasses more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest quality care for patients.

The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care.

AON also provides a unique model of physician led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences will be at the very pinnacle of cancer care today.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

American Oncology Network Implements Principal Care Management Program

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Network practices remain committed to delivering true value-based cancer care.

Fort Myers, Fla., July 1, 2022 – The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) will continue following the Oncology Care Model (OCM), despite the program’s closure on June 30, 2022, and announces the implementation of a new care management program called Principal Care Management (PCM).

Since its inception in 2018, AON has participated in the OCM, which is a national innovative payment program of the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (CMMI). Through its participation, AON’s affiliated practices have provided high-quality enhanced services to Medicare beneficiaries, such as care coordination, navigation and national treatment guidelines. Practices have also reduced the cost of cancer care through payment arrangements that include financial and performance accountability.

AON will continue to follow the OCM structure to maintain its practice transformation operational processes and remain poised for subsequent value-based care models in the future.

“AON practices have experienced the difference that the OCM has made in reducing the cost of care for our patients and boosting the overall sustainability of community oncology,” said AON Chief Medical Officer and acting physician at Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD.

The new care management program, Principal Care Management, will launch today, July 1, across the AON network. It is a separate program from the OCM and is designed to provide care for patients who have a single chronic condition.

“As a practice of AON, we’re excited to continue to provide services for patients requiring ongoing clinical monitoring and care coordination, such as a designated RN Care Manager, that have been proven to benefit both our patients and the practice in general,” said Divers.

“The benefit of the PCM to patients has been phenomenal. They’ve linked me with a care manager who calls to check on me between appointments and calls regularly to monitor my progress,” said AON patient Sandra Roberts. “It’s like having someone in your corner helping to take care of the management of your health with you. They always take the time to answer my questions and to listen and tell me I’m on the right path.”

“Thanks in part to high physician engagement and alignment with our strategic priorities, AON’s affiliated practices have achieved success with the OCM program. We want to continue on that march to improving quality outcomes to enhance our patients’ overall experiences with the PCM program,” said AON Chief Executive Officer Todd Schonherz.

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About American Oncology Network, LLC: (AONcology.com)
American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly growing AON network represents 107 physicians and 85 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states. The executive management team of AON brings more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest quality care for patients.

The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care.

AON also provides a unique model of physician led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences are at the very pinnacle of cancer care today.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

American Oncology Network and Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute Welcome Sunil Kakadia, MD, MPH

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Hot Springs, Ark., July 1, 2022 – The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) and the physicians of Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute (Genesis), Drs. Timothy Webb, Robert Muldoon, Stephen “Fred” Divers, Lynn Cleveland and Lingyi Chen, are pleased to announce that medical oncologist, Sunil Kakadia, MD, MPH, has joined the community oncology practice in Hot Springs.

Dr. Kakadia received his medical degree from Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education and Research in India followed by a Master of Public Health from California State University in Long Beach. He completed his internal medicine residency at the University of North Dakota in Fargo and a hematology-oncology fellowship at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.

Dr. Kakadia will be providing care at the Harmony Park, Higdon Ferry, Benton and Russellville clinics. He will also serve as the Director of Research for Genesis.

“We are excited to have Dr. Kakadia join our practice. He is an expert in all cancer types and aims to focus on genitourinary cancers,” said Dr. Timothy Webb, a medical oncologist at Genesis.

The Genesis team now consists of six medical oncologists and six advanced practice providers, offering a comprehensive range of treatments for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders at 10 locations across the state. The practice is committed to providing the community with innovative cancer care that is based on research, evidence-based medicine and focused on the whole person.

Genesis practice delivers a diverse range of services for diagnosis, treatment, clinical trials, survivorship and patient support. Through these services, cancer patients have unparalleled access to comprehensive, integrated cancer care that is close to home.

“Dr. Kakadia is very passionate about providing the highest quality of cancer care to those in his community and improving quality of life for patients and their families,” said AON President and Chief Development Officer Brad Prechtl, MBA.

“We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Kakadia. He has an impressive background with experience in all areas of cancer care and cancer research,” added AON Chief Executive Officer Todd Schonherz. “Dr. Kakadia will bring great value to Genesis and the AON network.”

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About Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute: (GenesisCancerBlood.com)
Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and hematology, Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute is recognized for providing expert cancer care in Arkansas. The highly trained physicians, clinicians and staff are committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for their patients. The medical oncology/hematology physicians at Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute include Dr. R. Timothy Webb, Dr. Robert T. Muldoon, Dr. Stephen “Fred” Divers, Dr. A. Lynn Cleveland, Dr. Lingyi Chen and Dr. Sunil Kakadia.

About American Oncology Network, LLC: (AONcology.com)
American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success of community oncology. Launched in 2018, the rapidly expanding AON network represents 107 physicians and 86 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 16 states. The executive management team of AON encompasses more than three decades of oncology practice management experience, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest quality care for patients.

The organization provides unique and comprehensive protocols for managing administrative procedures and enhancing ancillary services for its affiliates. AON is able to aggregate volume and attain economies of scale, as it guides its member physicians and practices through the transition to value-based reimbursement models that improve the patient experience and help to reduce the per-capita cost of cancer care.

AON also provides a unique model of physician-led, community-based oncology management. With services such as a centralized specialty pharmacy, diagnostics, pathology, fully integrated electronic medical records, a care management team and a variety of financial assistance programs, an alliance with AON ensures that patients’ experiences will be at the very pinnacle of cancer care today.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com