ACCC to Develop Comprehensive Immuno-Oncology Program for Providers

ROCKVILLE, Md. – The Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC) has been provided with a charitable contribution from Bristol‐Myers Squibb to develop a comprehensive program in Immuno-Oncology for community-based providers. The contribution provided by Bristol-Myers Squibb will enable ACCC to establish the Institute for Clinical Immuno-Oncology (ICLIO) to educate providers about Immuno-Oncology (IO) and its implementation and delivery in the community setting. ICLIO will be a catalyst in assuring the availability of and access to innovative IO agents and therapies for patients in need.

Immuno-Oncology, a transformational paradigm in cancer treatment, focuses on developing therapies that put the body’s own immune system to work to fight cancer.

“We are thrilled about the opportunity to help our members adopt innovations,” said Becky L. DeKay, MBA, President of ACCC. “There have been exciting advancements in understanding the immune system over the last five years, and this has led to newly emerging immunotherapy treatments. ACCC is pleased to have the opportunity to help ensure these cutting-edge therapies can be delivered in the community setting.”

ICLIO will engage community thought leaders and providers to advance the science and clinical applications of IO therapeutics in the community setting through the collective expertise, experience, and insights of leading providers.

The initial phase of the program will involve the establishment of the project infrastructure, including staffing, project planning, and marketing, and identification of potential partner organizations. An Advisory Committee comprised of ACCC members and other IO leaders will be created to oversee the planning and development of ICLIO.

Early phases of the program will include the identification and engagement of clinician scholars and thought leaders, an educational needs assessment of the ACCC membership, a one-day national conference, a monthly series of e-courses and e-newsletters for clinicians and fellows, and multiple scientific and policy publications highlighting the project findings and outcomes.

Community oncologists and other clinical professionals are key players in the rapid adoption and appropriate utilization of IO agents across tumor types. ACCC, through its new Institute for Clinical Immuno‐Oncology (ICLIO) will establish processes and programs dedicated to assuring access to innovative Immuno-Oncology therapeutics for patients whom we serve.