American Oncology Network Names Kristin Matisziw Corporate Compliance Officer

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Fort Myers, Fla., Oct. 1, 2020 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), a high-growth medical oncology provider with a focus on supporting the long-term viability of cancer treatment in community-based settings, recently announced the appointment of Kristin Matisziw as the organization’s corporate compliance officer.

“We are pleased to announce Kristin Matisziw as AON’s new corporate compliance officer,” said Brad Prechtl, MBA, AON CEO. “She has more than 15 years of experience and brings a vast knowledge of healthcare law and compliance expertise to AON. We look forward to her contributions to the organization as she advances our culture of compliance.”

Matisziw brings extensive experience in health law having provided years of guidance to hospitals, health systems and large physician groups on complex compliance and regulatory issues. Most recently, she was the Executive Director-Regulatory and Compliance Counsel at Mercy in St. Louis, Missouri, which was named one of the top five large U.S. health systems for four consecutive years (2016 to 2019) by IBM Watson Health. During her tenure at Mercy, she served as the primary legal advisor for all compliance and regulatory issues throughout the system, including implementation of and compliance with the requirements of the first three years of a Corporate Integrity Agreement.

Prior to joining Mercy, Matisziw served as in-house legal counsel for BJC HealthCare in St. Louis, primarily representing its medical group of over 800 employed physicians, and represented large physician groups and hospital systems within the healthcare practice groups of Squire Patton Boggs and Porter and Wright, Morris and Arthur in Columbus, Ohio.

Matisziw holds dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and History from University of Missouri Columbia and a law degree from Capital University Law School.

AON President & COO Todd Schonherz stated, “We welcome Kristin to the team and we look forward to her leadership in driving quality, efficiency and exceptional patient care while also advancing compliance in our operations and physician practice.”

AON Board Member and Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman added: “Kristin is a seasoned compliance executive, and we are excited to have her on board to guide the network and help its physicians keep up with fast-changing industry standards.”

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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 88 physicians and 57 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 15 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 will be at the very pinnacle of cancer care today.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341

American Oncology Network Appoints David H. Gould, CPA as CFO to Position Organization for Its Next Phase of Growth

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Fort Myers, Fla., Sept. 14, 2020 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), a high-growth medical oncology provider with a focus on supporting the long-term viability of cancer treatment in community-based settings, today announced that it has appointed David H. Gould, CPA as Chief Financial Officer.

Gould brings extensive experience in corporate accounting, treasury, financial reporting, as well as in mergers and acquisitions with over $5.0 billion in closed deals completed in his career prior to joining AON. Most recently, he was the Chief Financial Officer at ApolloMD, a multi-specialty physician and APC practice management services group for emergency and hospital medicine, anesthesiology, and radiology. During his tenure at ApolloMD, Gould substantially improved financial reporting while also playing a key role in revenue cycle enhancements, all of which contributed to consecutive years of margin expansion.

Prior to joining ApolloMD, Gould served approximately 10 years in progressively senior positions and ultimately as the Vice President of Finance and Assistant Treasurer at Cumulus Media, a publicly traded, leading broadcast media and network company with radio stations in approximately 100 markets across the United States. Prior to that, Gould held financial management roles with both publicly traded and private companies within the healthcare industry. Gould started his career in public accounting with the national audit firm of Ernst & Young out of their Washington, D.C. office. His experience in healthcare, along with building and managing successful teams, will be critically important at AON, a high growth company with an expanding national network of more than 140 providers.

Gould earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from University of Maryland.

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA said, “Dave has the expertise needed to guide our financial teams, a wealth of experience improving performance and financial results, and a deep understanding of physician led practices, which is core to our organization. He will be of immense value to us as we continue to join with a growing number of providers dedicated to providing exceptional patient care in their communities.”

AON President & COO Todd Schonherz stated, “Dave’s vast experience will advance the work we’ve been proud to do at AON – driving practice success, striving to find new efficiencies, working to ensure our services enable practices to perform at an optimal level.”

AON Board Member and Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman added: “Dave is an energetic leader and is passionate about what he does. We’re excited for him to lead the financial organization through this exciting next phase of growth.”

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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 88 physicians and 56 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 15 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 will be at the very pinnacle of cancer care today.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341

American Oncology Network Physician Ruemu E. Birhiray, MD Presents Research at Society of Hematologic Oncology Annual Meeting

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Fort Myers, Fla., Sept. 9, 2020 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is pleased to announce that a research study led by AON physician Ruemu E. Birhiray, MD of Hematology Oncology of Indiana, was accepted for presentation at the annual meeting of the Society of Hematologic Oncology (SOHO), to be held as a virtual event, September 9 – 12, 2020. Additional input and support was provided by AON physician Ralph V. Boccia, MD, FACP of The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders.

The study evaluates long-term proteasome inhibition in multiple myeloma following an in-class transition from Bortezomib-based induction to all-oral Ixazomib Lenalidomide-Dexamethasone in patients under and over 75 years of age in the community setting. The study is to be presented and published as an abstract at the prestigious SOHO annual meeting, a 3.5-day program attended by a broad international audience of academic and private researchers and physicians. SOHO is the only international society specific to the field of hematologic malignancies and is the premier meeting that focuses specifically on new advances and practical applications.

Brad Prechtl - Stephen Orman, MD - Ruemu E. Birhiray, MD

Dr. Ruemu E. Birhiray will also be speaking during the Industry Expert Session on Friday, September 11th, 2020, on “Redefining Approaches in Frontline Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CCL) Treatment Imbruvica® + Rituximab vs FDR: Head-to-Head-Data in Frontline CLL/SLL.”

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA, said, “To have Dr. Birhiray present his research and speak at this prestigious program confirms that our physicians are at the forefront of new discoveries and findings that will expand and improve treatment options for all patients with cancer and blood disorders.”

“The speakers at the SOHO annual meeting are a multidisciplinary group of internationally recognized experts that represent the spectrum on these diseases. We are proud of Dr. Birhiray for this great achievement,” added Dr. Stephen Orman, AON Board Member & Chairman.

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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 88 physicians and 56 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 15 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 will be at the very pinnacle of cancer care today.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341

American Oncology Network & Vista Oncology Welcome Robert Bigler, MD

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Fort Myers, Fla., Sept. 3, 2020 – Drs. Joseph Ye, Linli Xuan and Min Kang of Vista Oncology are pleased to announce that Medical Oncologist Robert Bigler, MD has joined the community oncology practice in Olympia, Washington. An American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) practice, Vista Oncology provides comprehensive treatment for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders at its three locations in the Puget Sound area.

Dr. Robert Bigler

Dr. Bigler received his undergraduate and medical education at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He trained in internal medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Montefiore in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and completed his fellowship in medical oncology and hematology at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York. He has over thirty years’ experience as a medical oncologist and has authored over 50 articles, abstracts and book chapters.

“Dr. Bigler brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our practice,” said Vista Oncology Physician Dr. Joseph Ye. “He is deeply committed to clinical research and education having spent 11 years as a professor of medicine and pathology at Hahnemann University/Allegheny University of the Health Sciences in Philadelphia.”

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA added, “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Bigler to Vista Oncology and the American Oncology Network. He joins us not only with outstanding credentials, he utilizes the most advanced treatments, including participation in cutting-edge clinical trials, to care for his patients throughout their cancer journey.”

“The Vista Oncology team provides exceptional medical treatment,” said AON President & COO Todd Schonherz. “Their dedication to a holistic approach to cancer survivorship means that each patient receives the highest levels of comfort, care and compassion. Dr. Bigler will make a great addition to the Washington practice and AON.”

Dr. Stephen Orman, AON Board Chairman, stated “Dr. Bigler believes in a comprehensive approach to his patients’ medical care, which exemplifies his commitment to community-based oncology. We are very pleased to welcome him to Vista and AON.”

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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 expanding AON network represents 88 physicians and 55 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 15 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.

About Vista Oncology: (Vista-Oncology.com)
Vista Oncology offers south Puget Sound residents compassionate, experienced and innovative treatment in cancer care. We are among the regional leaders in clinical trials in the South Sound region, allowing patients access to cutting-edge treatment otherwise unavailable in the area. Vista Oncology has three office locations with infusion clinics, diagnostic and full laboratory capabilities within each practice.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341

American Oncology Network & Hematology Oncology of Indiana Welcome M. Sarfraz Nawaz, MD

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Fort Myers, Fla., September 2, 2020 – The physicians of Hematology Oncology of Indiana (HOI), Dr. Raymond M. Harwood, Dr. Ruemu E. Birhiray, Dr. Jenelle S. Miller, Dr. Daniel T. Milton, Dr. Brian P. Mulherin and Dr. Deng Zhang, welcome Medical Oncologist M. Sarfraz Nawaz, MD to the practice. HOI, an American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) partner, has six locations, including two offices in metropolitan Indianapolis, and additional offices in Logansport, Lebanon, Noblesville, and Fishers, Indiana. Dr. Nawaz is seeing patients at the office in Indianapolis and at the Logansport and Lebanon locations.

Dr. Nawaz received his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree from Nishtar Medical College in Pakistan. He completed his internal medicine residency at Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska. He then completed a Certificate in Translational and Clinical Investigation at the University of Iowa followed by a fellowship in hematology and medical oncology at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University. He is Board certified in internal medicine.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Nawaz to our practice. He is passionate about quality improvement and patient-provider communication and is a tremendous addition to the community of Indianapolis and surrounding areas,” said Hematology Oncology of Indiana Senior Physician Dr. Raymond Harwood.

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA added, “It is a pleasure to welcome Dr. Nawaz to Hematology Oncology of Indiana and the American Oncology Network. As a community oncology practice, we remain committed to providing patients with state-of-the-art technology and personalized care conveniently located close to home.”

“Dr. Nawaz has an impressive background and brings to the practice and our network a special interest in patient safety,” said AON President & COO Todd Schonherz. “He is passionate about providing high-quality cancer care in a timely and safe manner to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients.”

Dr. Stephen Orman, AON Board Chairman, stated “Dr. Nawaz is a highly dedicated medical oncologist and an excellent addition to our growing physician network in the central Indiana area.”

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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 expanding AON network represents 88 physicians and 55 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 15 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.

About Hematology Oncology of Indiana: (www.HematologyOncologyIN.com)
Specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders and cancer, Hematology Oncology of Indiana (HOI) has six offices in the Central Indiana area. Hematology Oncology of Indiana is the Hematology/Oncology practice of Ruemu Birhiray, MD, Jenelle Miller, MD, Daniel Milton, MD, Raymond Harwood, MD, Brian Mulherin, MD, Deng Zhang, MD, PhD, and M. Sarfraz Nawaz, MD. The practice’s highly trained and experienced clinical staff includes Nurse Practitioners, Oncology-Certified Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and Medical Assistants. In addition, HOI’s Financial Counselors assist patients in navigating through insurance benefits coverage and identifying financial assistance options and opportunities.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341

American Oncology Network Expands Footprint in Georgia with the Addition of Low Country Cancer Care

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Fort Myers, Fla., September 1, 2020 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), a high-growth national network of independent community oncologists, is pleased to announce that Low Country Cancer Care in Savannah, Georgia, a specialized practice dedicated to the care of people with cancer and blood disorders, has joined AON, effective September 1, 2020.

Low Country Cancer Care has four locations, including one office in Savannah and three satellite offices in Hinesville and Pooler, Georgia and Bluffton, South Carolina. The team consists of six providers including two medical oncologists, two physician assistants and two nurse practitioners who deliver a comprehensive range of treatment for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders. With the AON affiliation, the practice will increase its current service offerings to their patients with expanded clinical laboratory and pathology services, an oral oncolytic outpatient pharmacy and enhanced care management services.

“The physicians and staff of Low Country Cancer Care have developed an excellent reputation in Savannah and surrounding areas, they are truly dedicated to serving and supporting patients with compassionate, individualized care in a community setting,” said AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA. “We welcome Drs. George Negrea and Jennifer Yannucci and their entire team to our growing network of community oncology practices.”

AON President & COO Todd Schonherz stated, “Low Country Cancer Care is a highly respected practice that delivers exemplary care to its patients. With AON, the physicians retain autonomy to make the best decisions for their patients and staff, while receiving AON support for pharmaceutical purchasing strategies, revenue cycle, payer negotiations, human resources and technology.”

AON Board Member & Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman added, “Low Country Cancer Care is a perfect example of how community-based oncology care benefits patients. The Low Country Cancer Care team is focused on personalized medicine, offering the most advanced treatment for cancer and blood disorders while providing comprehensive and compassionate care.”

“At Low Country Cancer Care, our goal is to provide the highest-quality care with a human touch,” said Dr. George Negrea. “Our partnership with AON will further enhance collaboration among our skilled oncologists, advanced practice providers and support staff so that residents in the Savannah communities have access to all the latest advancements in treatment and science.”

With a drive to ensure that everyone has access to exceptional cancer care, AON was founded by well-respected leaders in community oncology with decades of experience helping oncology practices to thrive by providing proven solutions.

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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 expanding AON network represents 88 physicians and 55 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 15 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.

About Low Country Cancer Care: (LCCCsav.com)
Low Country Cancer Care is a specialized practice devoted to the care of people with cancer and blood disorders as well as prevention and eradication of these types of diseases. We strive to combine the activities of patient care, prevention, education and research to benefit our patients. We are constantly striving to provide advanced treatment and world class medicine, in a warm, compassionate, and personalized environment. Our experienced and highly trained team is dedicated to providing the highest-quality diagnosis, treatment, care and trust for patients. Our goal is to provide care with a human touch.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341

American Oncology Network & Partner Oncology Welcome Dong Xiang, MD, MS

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Fort Myers, Fla., August 31, 2020 – Drs. Michael Liao and Joseph Ye of Partner Oncology are pleased to announce that Medical Oncologist Dong Xiang, MD, MS has joined the community oncology practice in Puyallup, Washington. An American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) practice, Partner Oncology provides comprehensive treatment for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders at its clinic in Pierce county.

Dr. Xiang earned his medical degree from Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Wilmington, North Carolina followed by a fellowship in hematology and medical oncology from the University of Louisville, Kentucky. Additionally, Dr. Xiang holds a Master of Science degree in molecular biology from the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa and a Master of Science degree in computer science from State University of New York, Albany. He is Board certified in medical oncology, hematology and internal medicine.

“Dr. Xiang brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our practice,” said Partner Oncology Physician Dr. Michael Liao. “He is deeply committed to clinical research having overseen numerous clinical development and investigator-initiated studies and has been published in several prestigious journals.”

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA added, “It is a pleasure to welcome Dr. Xiang to Partner Oncology and the American Oncology Network. He joins us not only with outstanding credentials, he shares our vision of ensuring local access to exceptional cancer care.”

“At AON our mission is to preserve and protect the sustainability of community oncology for physicians and patients,” said AON President & COO Todd Schonherz. “Where patients have access to advanced treatment options and comprehensive care. With Dr. Xiang’s extensive training, I know he will bring value to Partner Oncology and AON.”

Dr. Stephen Orman, AON Board Chairman, stated “We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Xiang. His impressive background makes him an excellent addition to our growing physician network and the residents of Puyallup and surrounding Washington communities.”

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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 expanding AON network represents 85 physicians and 52 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 14 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.

About Partner Oncology: (PartnerOncology.com)
Partner Oncology (PO) offers convenient access to quality cancer and hematology care for patients in Puyallup, Washington. A community-based practice, PO provides medical oncology/hematology services and infusion therapy including immunotherapy for treating cancer and other diseases.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341

American Oncology Network & Hematology Oncology of Indiana Welcome Dr. Deng Zhang

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Fort Myers, Fla., August 4, 2020 – The physicians of Hematology Oncology of Indiana (HOI), Dr. Raymond M. Harwood, Dr. Ruemu E. Birhiray, Dr. Jenelle S. Miller, Dr. Daniel T. Milton and Dr. Brian P. Mulherin, are pleased to announce that Medical Oncologist Deng Zhang, MD, PhD has joined the leading community oncology/hematology practice in Indianapolis, Indiana. An American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) partner, HOI has six locations, including two offices in metropolitan Indianapolis, and additional offices in Logansport, Lebanon, Noblesville, and Fishers, Indiana. Dr. Zhang is practicing at the Harcourt Road office in Indianapolis and at the Logansport and Noblesville locations.

Deng Zhang, MD, PhD - Medical Oncologist

Dr. Zhang received his Doctor of Medicine degree and a Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering in China. He earned a PhD in Biosystems Engineering from Michigan State University followed by an internal medicine residency. He then completed a fellowship in hematology and medical oncology at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, New York. He is Board certified in medical oncology, hematology and internal medicine.

Hematology Oncology of Indiana Senior Physician Dr. Raymond Harwood said, “Dr. Zhang joins us not only with outstanding credentials, he shares our philosophy of serving and supporting patients with compassionate, patient-centric care in a community setting. We are delighted to welcome him to our practice.”

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA added, “It is a pleasure to welcome Dr. Zhang to Hematology Oncology of Indiana and the American Oncology Network. As a community oncology practice, we remain committed to providing patients with the most advanced and personalized treatments in settings that are convenient and close to home. I’m confident that Dr. Zhang’s training and experience make him an ideal fit for AON and HOI.”

“Dr. Zhang has a remarkable background and brings to the practice and our network a special interest in clinical research,” said AON President & COO Todd Schonherz. “He is highly regarded for his approach to patient care that incorporates the most effective treatments.”

Dr. Stephen Orman, AON Board Chairman, stated “Dr. Zhang is a highly dedicated medical oncologist and an impressive addition to our growing physician network in the central Indiana area.”

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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 expanding AON network represents 85 physicians and 52 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 14 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.

About Hematology Oncology of Indiana: (www.HematologyOncologyIN.com)
Specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders and cancer, Hematology Oncology of Indiana (HOI) has six offices in the Central Indiana area. Hematology Oncology of Indiana is the Hematology/Oncology practice of Ruemu Birhiray, MD, Jenelle Miller, MD, Daniel Milton, MD, Raymond Harwood, MD, Brian Mulherin, MD, and Deng Zhang, MD, PhD. The practice’s highly trained and experienced clinical staff includes Nurse Practitioners, Oncology-Certified Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses and Medical Assistants. In addition, HOI’s Financial Counselors assist patients in navigating through insurance benefits coverage and identifying financial assistance options and opportunities.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341

Messino Cancer Centers Founder Michael Messino, MD Receives Prestigious North Carolina Governor’s Award

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Asheville, N.C., August 4, 2020 – Messino Cancer Centers (MCC), a partner practice of American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), is pleased to announce that Medical Oncologist Dr. Michael Messino, is a recipient of North Carolina’s highest award for state service granted by the Office of the Governor. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is an honor granted by the State of North Carolina to individuals who have shown extraordinary service to the state. Senator Terry Van Duyn presented the award to Dr. Messino on July 31, 2020.

Michael Messino, MD

“I began my medical oncology practice with a vision to not only provide quality cancer care with compassion and kindness and in consideration of the whole patient as a unique individual, but to also ensure patients in the rural communities surrounding Asheville had access to the same level of care,” explained Dr. Messino. “This is such a humbling honor bestowed on me by the state and those that nominated me, I am truly grateful for this recognition. We would not be able to do what we do without our dedicated providers and staff.”

The award recognizes Dr. Messino for more than 30 years of providing exceptional cancer care in Western North Carolina, his leadership in building Messino Cancer Centers with comprehensive medical oncology care, and for showing genuine kindness and compassion for his patients, staff and colleagues.

The MCC team includes 14 medical oncologists and 18 physician assistants and nurse practitioners who provide a comprehensive range of treatment for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders in six convenient community locations in Asheville, Brevard, Franklin, Spruce Pine, Marion and Sylva.

“Dr. Messino is a visionary who 30 years ago recognized the need for expert and nearby cancer care,” said AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA. “We applaud him for this well-deserved recognition and his commitment to building the highest quality cancer center in Asheville and in rural areas that were underserved.”

“We echo the praise the state has given Dr. Messino with his unwavering dedication to patients in his community,” AON President & COO Todd Schonherz added. “He exemplifies AON’s mission of providing the highest quality, cost effective cancer care and is a role model for other community oncologists nationwide.”

AON is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders that provides a unique array of enhanced services to its affiliated community-based oncology practices.

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About Messino Cancer Centers: (MessinoCancerCenters.com)
Messino Cancer Centers (MCC) provides treatment for adult patients diagnosed with all types of cancer and blood disorders. We are experienced physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses and clinical support staff dedicated to providing the most advanced and innovative treatments of the highest quality. We work together as a team and recognize that each patient is not just a person with cancer, but a unique individual. Care is provided with the utmost concern and consideration of what is best for the whole person throughout their cancer journey.

MCC physicians provide state-of-the-art evidence-based medicine for patients, incorporating personalized medicine, standard and nationally accepted guidelines, and clinical trials. Through care management and dedicated oncology certified staff, we provide support for patients through all phases of their diagnosis and treatment. The physicians of MCC are grounded in the region of Western North Carolina and devoted to providing care to patients in their communities.

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 85 physicians and 52 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 14 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.

About Long Leaf Pine Society: (LongLeafPineSociety.org)
Since 1963, North Carolina’s governors have reserved their highest honor, The Order of the Long Leaf Pine award, for persons who have made significant contributions to the state and their communities through their exemplary service and exceptional accomplishments.

In addition to being the custodian of the Roster and Directory of award recipients, The Society is responsible for compiling and preserving the history of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine award program.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt
Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341

Partner Oncology Joins the American Oncology Network, LLC

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Fort Myers, Fla., August 3, 2020 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), a high-growth national network of independent community oncologists, announced a new alliance with Partner Oncology in Puyallup, Washington. Partner Oncology joined AON effective August 1, 2020.

Partner Oncology provides comprehensive treatment for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders at its clinic in Pierce county. The practice was founded by Medical Oncologist Michael Liao, MD, PhD. Dr. Liao will be joined by Medical Oncologist and Hematologist Dr. Dong Xiang and a nurse practitioner. Through the affiliation with AON, the practice will offer new services to enhance patient care including centralized laboratory and pathology services for diagnostic testing, home delivery of oral cancer medications, 24/7 care management services for added patient support in-between office visits, and Oncology Care Model participation.

Brad Prechtl, MBA - Todd Schonerz - Stephen Orman, MD - Michael Liao, MD, PhD

“We welcome Drs. Liao and Xiang to our growing network of community oncology practices,” said AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA. “Partner Oncology’s focus on working closely with their patients is aligned with AON’s approach of providing the highest quality of care that is patient-centric.”

AON President & COO Todd Schonherz added, “We’re pleased to have these experienced and highly respected physicians join AON. As our network expands, we’re connecting oncologists to each other and to the resources they need to provide the most advanced care for their patients.”

AON Board Member & Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman stated, “Partner Oncology will be a great addition to the AON network, providing even greater convenience to the best possible cancer care for patients in Pierce county.”

“The practice philosophy is to partner with our patients, having a strong relationship helps bring the best possible outcomes for fighting their cancer,” said Dr. Michael Liao. “This partnership with AON will help us to continue providing exceptional cancer care coupled with enhanced services like an in-house pharmacy and care management support.”

AON was founded by well-respected leaders in community oncology with decades of experience helping oncology practices thrive by providing proven solutions to ensure that everyone has access to exceptional cancer care close to home.

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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 expanding AON network represents 85 physicians and 52 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 14 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.

About Partner Oncology: (PartnerOncology.com)
Partner Oncology (PO) offers convenient access to quality cancer and hematology care for patients in Puyallup, Washington. A community-based practice, PO provides medical oncology/hematology services and infusion therapy including immunotherapy for treating cancer and other diseases.

For More Information, Contact:
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline Hewitt, Director of  Marketing
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com
(239) 789.2341