American Oncology Network Launches Telehealth Services  in Response to Coronavirus (COVID-19)

High-growth oncology provider quickly deploys technology to ensure patients across the country have virtual access to cancer care treatment during healthcare crisis

Fort Myers, Fla., April 9, 2020 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) recently launched telehealth services across all AON sites, allowing patients continued and convenient access to care, while mitigating the impact and spread of COVID-19. This virtual care solution plays a vital role in response to the pandemic crisis, maintaining patient access to care directly from home.

Through the use of video chat, AON providers consult with patients remotely, share laboratory results, treatment plans, and more. The growing AON network of community-based oncology practices has embraced telehealth adoption, not only to fulfill immediate healthcare needs in response to the outbreak, but also to support the delivery of high-quality patient-centered care. Since the recent ‘go live,’ close to 700 telehealth visits have been completed and the numbers are expected to rise at a rapid rate. Telehealth visits are now covered by most insurance plans; patients may pay the same costs for an in-office visit. Some health insurance providers, in response to the pandemic, are waiving copays for telehealth visits to reduce the cost of accessing care.

AON Executive Headshots

“Even after we get through this unprecedented time in handling the coronavirus, we will continue to leverage our telehealth system,” said AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA. “These virtual visits not only allow providers to interact with patients in a way that is convenient and best suited to the patient’s medical needs; they maintain the delivery of quality care.”

Connecting providers and patients is easy, thanks to advanced technologies. With a simple web link, patients can connect with their physician using either a computer or mobile device. No additional hardware or software is needed. While telehealth is not suitable for every patient served by AON practices; physicians determine appropriate patients who are a good fit.

“Patients can feel comfortable about the privacy of their telehealth appointment. Just like with the traditional clinic visit, personal health information is protected and secure,” said AON President & Chief Operating Officer Todd Schonherz. “In a very compressed period of time, we were able to successfully integrate multiple electronic platforms to ensure our patients had the critical access needed for their continuum of care.”

In addition to AON practice physicians, advanced practitioners, nurses, social workers and nutritionists within AON practices are also connecting with patients through telehealth.

“At AON, we are working to help providers rise to meet healthcare consumers’ heightened expectations and offer an exceptional patient experience,” said AON Board Member & Chairman Stephen Orman, MD. “Telehealth has largely remained untapped in cancer care. We’re driving change for our physicians and patients in ways that are beneficial to all.”

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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 73 physicians and 41 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 11 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

Waverly Hematology Oncology Has Joined the American Oncology Network, LLC

Fort Myers, Fla. and Cary, N.C., April 6, 2020 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is pleased to announce that Waverly Hematology Oncology, a leading community oncology/hematology practice serving the Cary, North Carolina community, has joined AON, effective Apr. 1, 2020. AON is an alliance of physicians and veteran healthcare leaders uniting to ensure the long-term success of community oncology.

Waverly Hematology Oncology provides comprehensive, high quality treatment for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders at its clinic in Wake County. The practice was founded in 2004 by Medical Oncologist/Hematologist Dr. Mark Graham. The team includes three medical oncologists, four physician assistants and one nurse practitioner. Through the affiliation with AON, the practice will expand the services it offers to patients, adding enhanced technology and home delivery of oral oncolytic medications as well as centralized laboratory and pathology services for diagnostic testing.

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA stated, “Drs. Graham, Campbell, and Naidu and the entire Waverly Hematology Oncology team provide exceptional medical treatment. Their dedication to a patient-centric approach to cancer care means that each patient receives the highest levels of treatment, focused on the whole patient. We are pleased to welcome Waverly Hematology Oncology to AON.”

AON Board Member & Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman, added, “Waverly Hematology Oncology is a perfect example of how community-based oncology care benefits patients. The Waverly Hematology Oncology team is focused on personalized medicine, offering advanced technology and clinical trials while providing competent and compassionate care.”

“As a privately-owned clinic, we know that our partnership with AON will assist us in keeping abreast with the rapid changes in the healthcare industry,” said Dr. Mark Graham of Waverly Hematology Oncology. “This new partnership will help us enhance our care by offering additional services including centralized laboratory and pathology, timely home delivery of oral cancer medications and participation in Medicare’s Oncology Care Model.”

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 growing AON network represents 73 physicians and 41 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 11 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.

About Waverly Hematology Oncology: (WaverlyHematologyOncology.com)
Waverly Hematology Oncology (Waverly) offers centralized easy access 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 three medical oncologists, four physician assistants, one nurse practitioner 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. At its site at 300 Ashville Avenue, additional sophisticated services are offered including diagnostic radiology, breast imaging, radiation oncology and surgery.

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

American Oncology Network Continues Strategic Relationship with AmerisourceBergen

VALLEY FORGE, Pa. , Mar 06, 2020 — Today, global healthcare solutions leader AmerisourceBergen announced that it is continuing its strategic relationship with the American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), a high-growth medical oncology provider with a focus on supporting the long-term viability of oncology treatment in community-based settings. AmerisourceBergen will support AON in its effort to accelerate key strategic priorities to scale its integrated value-based care delivery model nationwide.

AON currently serves an expanding network of partner practices across 11 states, providing dedicated end-to-end administrative support, access to an extensive array of centralized ancillary services, and proven practice management expertise. Delivered through its local market, physician-led model, AON empowers community-based practices with the necessary tools, support and capital to effectively navigate today’s increasingly dynamic healthcare landscape and practice value-based care within the community at scale.

“Our partnership with AmerisourceBergen is an important part of our effort to grow our network, expand our solution suite, and deliver exceptional services to our partner practices and their patients,” said AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA.

AON Board Member & Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman added, “AmerisourceBergen is an industry leader with a proven track record of achieving exceptional results, and we look forward to collaborating further to expand our national oncology network.”

AmerisourceBergen’s ION Solutions supports AON with GPO contracting. Oncology Supply handles distribution of chemotherapy and supportive care products to AON practices. Additional integrated service offerings available to AON practices through ION and Oncology Supply include:

  • Dedicated account teams that actively consult on inventory and creating operational efficiencies
  • Robust inventory of specialty and full-line oral, infusible and injectable products
  • Technology, analytics and informatics solutions to drive higher-quality and lower-costs
  • Inventory management solutions
  • Centralized library of precision medicine testing recommendations and resources through ION Solutions’ Precision Medicine Center
  • Ongoing educational conference series designed to facilitate peer-to-peer learning and networking and strengthen the community of independent oncologists
  • The largest, longest-tenured pharmacy program that assists community oncology practices in successfully optimizing a medically integrated dispensing program

“As a company that’s pharmaceutical-centered and community focused, we strive for partners like AON,” said Brian Ansay, President Specialty Physician Group Purchasing, AmerisourceBergen. “AON’s physician-led model and patient-centric services are creating new opportunities in community oncology, and we are excited about their vision for the future.”

AON is physician led and physician governed. For more information about AON, please visit: www.AONcology.com.

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 72 physicians and 38 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 11 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.

About AmerisourceBergen

AmerisourceBergen provides pharmaceutical products, value-driving services and business solutions that improve access to care. Tens of thousands of healthcare providers, veterinary practices and livestock producers trust us as their partner in the pharmaceutical supply chain. Global manufacturers depend on us for services that drive commercial success for their products. Through our daily work—and powered by our 22,000 associates—we are united in our responsibility to create healthier futures. AmerisourceBergen is ranked #10 on the Fortune 500, with more than $175 billion in annual revenue. The company is headquartered in Valley Forge, Pa. and has a presence in 50+ countries. Learn more at amerisourcebergen.com

Contact:

Caroline Hewitt
American Oncology Network, LLC
Caroline.Hewitt@aoncology.com
239-789-2341

Francesca Gunning
AmerisourceBergen
Fgunning@AmerisourceBergen.com
610-727-7433

American Oncology Network Partners with Cedar to Improve the Patient Financial Experience

Personalized billing and payment platform will enable an improved financial experience for oncology patients across the growing AON community-based provider network

Fort Myers, Fla., February 10, 2020American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) and Cedar, a patient engagement and payment technology platform, today announced that they are partnering to modernize the on-line payment experience for patients.

“This partnership with Cedar enables us to keep pace with the rapid technology advances in the healthcare industry and improve the patient experience,” said AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA. AON is dedicated to providing world-class cancer care to patients in convenient locations close to their homes.

AON Executive Headshots v3

Cedar’s patient payment and engagement platform offers a seamless, intuitive user experience and enables customized outreach, messaging and bill resolution to patients based on a variety of unique factors and preferences. Aligned to the AON commitment to excellence, Cedar’s platform receives patient satisfaction scores averaging 95%.

“Cedar provides a personalized platform that is easy and convenient for our patients and their families,” said AON Chief Revenue Cycle Officer Sarah Cevallos. “It will streamline the often-cumbersome payment process.”

“At Cedar, we are working to help providers rise to meet healthcare consumers’ heightened expectations and offer an exceptional financial experience,” said Cedar Co-founder and CEO Florian Otto. “The American Oncology Network is on the forefront of this trend and is driving change on behalf of their physicians and patients in ways that are beneficial to all.”

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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 72 physicians and 33 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 11 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.

About Cedar
Cedar is a patient payment and engagement platform for hospitals, health systems and medical groups that elevates the total patient experience beyond clinical care. The platform leverages advanced data science and smart segmentation to deliver modern intelligence and simplify the healthcare experience for patients. To learn more, visit www.cedar.com

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

Bethany Hale
VP Marketing, Cedar
C: 929-276-4389
E: bethany@cedar.com

American Oncology Network In-House Specialty Pharmacy Earns Prestigious URAC Accreditation

AON Pharmacy recognized for excellence and quality in healthcare  

Fort Myers, Fla., February 3, 2020 – The American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) in-house specialty pharmacy is proud to announce their recent URAC accreditation.  URAC is the independent leader in promoting healthcare quality through leadership, accreditation, measurement and innovation. By achieving this status, AON Pharmacy demonstrated a comprehensive commitment to quality care, improved processes and better patient outcomes.  The AON specialty pharmacy, based in Fort Myers, Florida, works exclusively on behalf of more than 70 physicians in its growing network of community-based oncology practices to deliver oral cancer medications to their patients’ homes.  Oral anti-cancer medication currently comprises 25-30 percent of the oncology treatments provided to patients nationwide. 

“AON Pharmacy should be commended for meeting these rigorous national quality standards,” said AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA.  “This accreditation represents our commitment to our physicians and their patients to providing the highest quality of services to ensure patient safety.”

AON Pharmacy Manager Douglas Braun, CSP, PharmD, RPh, added “With ready access to 99 percent of the now available oral oncolytics and with our accreditation, we are well positioned to provide patients with the best available treatments, education, and 24/7 pharmacy assistance.”

“At AON we are passionate about providing the highest level of care. With real-time access to patient charts through our electronic medical records system, our pharmacists can stay in close contact with physicians to monitor therapies and to quickly address any issues, ensuring that each patients’ treatment is as effective as possible,” said AON Board Member & Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman.

“It’s necessary for specialty pharmacies to provide a higher level of treatment for patients so desired outcomes are achieved. AON Pharmacy shows a dedication to patient education and safety through the recognition of quality it received with URAC’s independent accreditation,” said URAC President and CEO Shawn Griffin, M.D. “With URAC accreditation, people know that AON Pharmacy strives to adhere to industry best practices.”

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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 72 physicians and 33 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 11 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.

About URAC
Founded in 1990, URAC is the independent leader in promoting healthcare quality through leadership, accreditation, measurement and innovation. URAC is a nonprofit organization using evidence-based measures and developing standards through inclusive engagement with a range of stakeholders committed to improving the quality of healthcare. Our portfolio of accreditation and certification programs span the healthcare industry, addressing healthcare management, healthcare operations, health plans, pharmacies, telehealth providers, physician practices, and more. URAC accreditation is a symbol of excellence for organizations to showcase their validated commitment to quality and accountability.

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

American Oncology Network, LLC & Hope Cancer Care of Nevada Welcome Gary Palmer, MD

Fort Myers, Fla., February 3, 2020 – Dr. Raja Mehdi of Hope Cancer Care of Nevada (HCCN) welcomes Medical Oncologist Dr. Gary Palmer to the practice. HCCN, an American Oncology Network (AON) partner, has office locations in Las Vegas at 6827 West Tropicana Avenue and in Pahrump at 2340 East Calvada Boulevard Suite 7. Dr. Palmer is seeing patients in both locations.

Dr. Palmer

After graduating from Stanford University School of Medicine, Dr. Palmer completed residencies in Medicine at Boston City Hospital and at Massachusetts General Hospital, where he completed a fellowship in hematology/oncology. Dr. Palmer holds an MBA from University of California, Davis, in Sacramento, a master’s degree in Public Health from UCLA and a juris doctor from Concord University in Los Angeles, Calif. He is Board certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine.

“Dr. Palmer has an impressive background with vast experience in all areas of cancer care,” said Hope Cancer Care of Nevada Physician Dr. Raja Mehdi. “He brings to the practice a special interest in clinical research and is highly regarded for his approach to patient care that incorporates the most effective treatments.”

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA stated, “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. With Dr. Palmers’ extensive training and experience, I know he will bring value to HCCN and AON.”

Dr. Stephen Orman, AON Board Member & Chairman, said, “We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Palmer. His remarkable credentials make him an asset to our growing physician network.”

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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 72 physicians and 33 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 11 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.

About Hope Cancer Care of Nevada: (HCCNevada.com)
Hope Cancer Care (HCCN) specializes in personalized cancer care and treatment with advanced technology in a relaxed environment. HCCN believes in the Hope difference. Offering state-of-the-art cancer treatments and caregiver support with high-end modern amenities. Truly a comprehensive cancer care facility.

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

American Oncology Network, LLC Names Todd Schonherz President & Chief Operating Officer

Fort Myers, Fla., January 27, 2020 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON), whose mission is to support the long-term viability of community oncology, today announced the appointment of Todd Schonherz as President & Chief Operating Officer of AON, effective Jan. 27, 2020.

Todd has served as Chief Operating Officer of AON since 2017 and is responsible for overseeing AON’s day-to-day operations, including practice operations, information technology, care management, oversight of central ancillaries and research, and marketing. His appointment as President & COO will allow him to focus on the overall long-term strategic direction and success of the organization.

Jan 27 Presser Headshots-1

Within the past year and a half, the AON network has expanded to include nearly 75 physicians and over 30 nurse practitioners in 11 states. “We have made great strides in a very short time,” noted President & COO Todd Schonherz. “Through access to centralized services such as revenue cycle management, drug purchasing, payer contracting and IT, as well as enhanced services such as pathology and oral oncolytic pharmacy, AON practices have realized significant results in increased productivity and improved operations.”

“Todd’s commitment to operational excellence will play an instrumental role in further growing the American Oncology Network,” said AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA. “Todd and his team will continue to build upon our commitment to ensuring the long-term viability of community oncology practice, the setting where nearly 80 percent of Americans battling cancer now receive treatment and experience the best outcomes.”

AON Board Member & Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman added, “Todd has been instrumental since AON’s inception and critical to its development and growth. He brings an accelerated focus on executing against key strategies, due to his deep knowledge of the healthcare system and a proven track record of leadership.”

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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 72 physicians and 33 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 11 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

Messino Cancer Centers Opens in Western North Carolina and Joins the American Oncology Network, LLC

Fort Myers, Fla., January 6, 2020 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is pleased to announce the opening of Messino Cancer Centers. The physicians, serving the Western North Carolina region for 30 years, joined AON, effective Jan. 1, 2020. AON is an alliance of physicians and veteran healthcare leaders uniting to ensure the long-term success of community oncology.

Messino Cancer Centers (MCC) is providing care at its primary site located at 551 Brevard Road in Asheville. New locations in Brevard, Franklin and Spruce Pine will open later this month, with locations in Marion and Sylva opening later in Q1 2020.

The MCC team includes 14 medical oncologists and 16 physician assistants and nurse practitioners who provide a comprehensive range of treatment for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders. Through this partnership, the MCC physician-led teams, will enhance the services offered to patients, with advanced diagnostic technologies, an expanded oral oncolytic outpatient pharmacy providing home delivery of medications, pathology and central laboratory services, and 24/7 care management support.

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA stated, “Messino Cancer Centers is a highly respected practice recognized for delivering exemplary, patient-centric care in the community. We are delighted to welcome the entire MCC family to AON.”

AON Board Member & Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman added, “The MCC physicians are dedicated to providing the residents of Western North Carolina convenient access to cutting-edge cancer care.”

“Working with AON, we look forward to continuing to build upon our 30-year history of providing the highest quality cancer care that is based on research and delivered with compassion and kindness in consideration of each patient as a unique individual,” said Medical Oncologist Dr. Michael Messino, who founded MCC.

MCC Medical Oncologist Dr. Christopher Chay said, “This partnership enables us to gain access to vital support for activities that are critical to delivering true value-based care. In turn, my colleagues and I can continue to make the best decisions for our patients and staff.”

With a mission to ensure that everyone has access to exceptional cancer care, AON was founded by well-respected leaders in the oncology community 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 growing AON network represents 72 physicians and 33 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across 11 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.

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 evidenced-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.

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

Vista Oncology Has Joined the American Oncology Network, LLC

Fort Myers, Fla., December 4, 2019 – American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) is pleased to announce that Vista Oncology, a leading community oncology/hematology practice serving the Olympia, Washington community, has joined AON, effective Dec. 1, 2019. AON is an alliance of physicians and veteran healthcare leaders uniting to ensure the long-term success of community oncology.

Formed in 2008, Vista Oncology has three locations in the Puget Sound region. The team includes four medical oncologists, one physician assistant and one nurse practitioner who provide a comprehensive range of treatment for patients diagnosed with cancer and blood disorders.  Through the affiliation with AON, the practice will expand the services it offers to patients, adding enhanced technology and home delivery of oral oncolytic medications as well as centralized laboratory and pathology services for diagnostic testing.

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA stated, “Drs. Nicole Grous, Min Kang, Linli Xuan, Joseph Ye and the entire Vista Oncology team provide exceptional medical treatment.  Their dedication to a holistic approach to cancer survivorship means that each patient receives the highest levels of comfort, care and compassion. We are delighted to welcome Vista Oncology to AON.”

AON Board Member & Chairman Dr. Stephen Orman, added, “Vista Oncology is a model for how community-based oncology care benefits patients.  The Vista Oncology team utilizes the most advanced treatments, including participation in cutting-edge clinical trials, to serve their patients on every step of their cancer care journey.”

“As a privately-owned clinic, we know that our partnership with AON will assist us in keeping pace with the rapid advances and changes in the healthcare industry,” said Dr. Joseph Ye of Vista Oncology. “Most importantly, it will enable us to remain focused on our highest priority – survivorship for our patients.”

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 growing AON network represents 58 physicians and 20 nurse practitioners and physician assistants practicing across ten 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.

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 Expands Participation in Oncology Care Model

Fort Myers, Fla., November 25, 2019 — Since its inception in 2017, the American Oncology Network, LLC (AON) has participated in the Oncology Care Model (OCM), a national innovative payment program of the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (CMMI). Through its participation in OCM, AON’s affiliated practices are providing high-quality enhanced services to Medicare beneficiaries, such as care coordination, navigation, and national treatment guidelines, while reducing the cost of cancer care through payment arrangements that include financial and performance accountability.

Based on its record of success in community oncology practices across the nation, AON is expanding its participation in the program by choosing to adopt an alternative “two-sided risk” model that would create additional savings for patients and, potentially, for its affiliated practices. In the new two-sided risk model, providers still share in savings, if spending is below the benchmark, as they do in the previous one-sided risk model; however, under the two-sided model, providers also are responsible for some of the loss if spending is above the benchmark.

AON CEO Brad Prechtl, MBA said, “AON’s affiliated practices are community oncology practices that provide extremely high-quality care. Being part of the American Oncology Network allows these practices to provide enhanced services to their patients, such as an in-house specialty pharmacy, world-class pathology lab and national clinical research, as well as the ability to participate in the Oncology Care Model, which, in turn, provides added benefits to patients in their local community.”

Sarah Cevallos, AON Chief Revenue Cycle Officer, added, Models such as the OCM have allowed practices joining AON to quickly adopt enhanced services that will ultimately provide a win for our patients, payer partners, and reinvestment into the organization. While this is the first major value-based model AON has adopted, we are looking to use this as a platform to expand our learnings to other commercial payers and patients.”

AON Advisory Board Member Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD, who practices at Genesis Cancer Center in Hot Springs, Ark., has championed the OCM as a model that proactively addresses the rising costs of cancer care. “Our practice has experienced the difference that OCM has made in reducing the cost of care for our patients and boosting the overall sustainability of community oncology. As a practice of AON, we have access to the advantages of the OCM, such as 24/7 care management for our patients, that have been proven to benefit both our patients and the practice in general.”

AON Board Member & Chairman Stephen Orman, MD, is optimistic about AON’s participation in the new two-sided model, saying, “We expect to achieve future successes because we have high physician engagement and alignment with our strategic priorities. This is an unsurpassed opportunity for physicians and practices that join AON to participate in an advanced organization that is leading the initiative toward value-based care, which provides the highest quality of cancer care while reducing the overall cost of that care for our patients.”

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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 54 physicians and 15 nurse practitioners practicing across nine 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