COA 2025 Recap: Empowering, Advocating and Advancing Together

AON Chief Medical Officer,
COA 2025 Conference Co-Chair

May 16, 2025 in Administrative Ease

During the last week of April, more than 2,000 oncology professionals from across the nation gathered in Orlando to attend Community Oncology Alliance’s (COA) Annual Conference. United in purpose around the conference theme of “Empower and Advocate,” attendees participated in sessions focused on elevating care, protecting access, and shaping a future where both patients and practices can thrive. AON played a key role, with 14 speakers contributing to panels on clinical innovation, care delivery, reimbursement models, and policy reform—and more than 40 leaders in attendance.

The collective commitment to continually improving patient care was evident in every session, panel, and hallway conversation, as community oncology professionals stood side by side, empowered by a shared mission to advocate for what matters most: patients.

Here are some key takeaways:

Advocacy in Action

Policy reform remains essential to protecting patient access and ensuring the sustainability of independent practices. COA 2025 highlighted the growing impact of coordinated advocacy—especially when rooted in real patient stories and clinical experience.

Whether addressing drug shortages, expanding telehealth, or supporting site-neutral payments, this year’s sessions demonstrated both the progress we’ve made and the important work that remains. The unified voice of community oncology is being heard—and it’s making a difference.

Technology and Innovation That Supports Care

AI, data integration, and digital tools were central topics, with a consistent message: innovation must enhance—not replace—the provider-patient relationship.

Speakers emphasized the importance of thoughtful implementation, using technology to support clinical decision-making, reduce administrative burden, and improve health outcomes. The balance between tech advancement and human-centered care is crucial.

Advancing Value-Based Care

Value-based models continue to evolve, and many sessions explored how practices can adapt while staying true to their mission. Strategies ranged from alternative payment models to quality improvement initiatives—all focused on delivering high-quality, cost-effective care.

AON speakers offered actionable insights from our experience, contributing to a broader conversation that made clear: value-based care isn’t just possible—it’s already elevating community oncology across the country.

Collaboration and Partnership

From regional alliances to national networks, collaboration is accelerating progress. COA 2025 reinforced that innovation is most powerful when it’s shared.

Examples of cross-organizational partnerships showcased how working together can improve clinical outcomes and operational strength. This spirit of collaboration is a cornerstone of success in today’s oncology environment.

Expanding Access to Clinical Trials

One of the most urgent themes of the conference was the need to expand access to clinical research—especially in community settings. The traditional trial infrastructure leaves too many patients behind, and it’s clear we must bring trials closer to home to reduce inequity.

Through technology, partnerships, and redesigned workflows, more practices are doing just that. The movement toward decentralized trials is gaining momentum and it’s one of the most promising ways we can reduce disparities in care.

Empowering The Whole Team

Sessions emphasized the importance of empowerment, not just for leadership, but for every member of the care team. From nurses and pharmacists to front office staff and patient navigators, each role contributes directly to patient outcomes.

COA celebrated this full-team approach and underscored the importance of investing in people—not just processes—because high-quality cancer care happens when everyone is equipped, supported, and valued.

Community as Our Strength

COA 2025 was a powerful reminder that we are united by a shared purpose. The conversations, connections, and collaborations sparked in Orlando are already shaping what’s next, and together we’re building a more empowered, equitable, and resilient future for community oncology.

We’re already looking forward to COA 2026 happening April 28-29 at the Walt Disney Dolphin Hotel in Orlando – be sure to save the date!