BALTIMORE, Md., July 15, 2025 – Auerbach Hematology and Oncology Associates PC, a trusted name in hematology and oncology care in Baltimore, Maryland, is proud to announce it has joined American Oncology Network (AON), one of the nation’s fastest-growing networks of community-based oncology practices. The practice, located at 5233 King Ave., Suite 308, will now be known as The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD)—Baltimore.

This partnership enables Michael Auerbach, MD, FACP,  Huzefa Bahrain, DO, FACP and Stephanie Horrocks, CRNP to expand their patient-focused services, grow clinical trial offerings, and pursue new market opportunities—while continuing to provide the high-quality, compassionate care that has defined their practice for 24 years.

Dr. Auerbach is a Board-certified hematologist and oncologist who earned his medical degree from New York Medical College in Valhalla, New York. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Ohio. He then completed fellowship training in hematology and oncology at Columbia University School of Medicine in New York. An internationally renowned expert on the treatment of iron deficiency anemia, he is the author of Treatment of Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency Anemia in adults, Anemia in Pregnancy and Identifying the Cause of Iron Deficiency for UpToDate.  He is currently a Clinical Professor of Medicine at Georgetown University School of Medicine and is on the American Society of Hematology Guidelines Committee for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Iron Deficiency and Iron Deficiency Anemia.

Dr. Bahrain is a Board-certified hematologist and oncologist who earned his medical degree from Nova Southeastern University in Miami. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at MFSMC, University of Maryland where he served as chief resident. He went on to complete his hematology-oncology fellowship at the Washington Cancer Institute, Georgetown University, where he was named chief fellow. Dr. Bahrain is a nationally known key opinion leader for the use of intravenous iron for the treatment of iron deficiency with multiple high quality publications in the field.

Stephanie Horrocks is a certified registered nurse practitioner who earned her Master of Science in nursing from Maryville University in St. Louis. She has worked alongside Dr. Auerbach and Dr. Bahrain since 2020, specializing in the management of complex hematologic conditions. With nearly a decade of experience as a nurse practitioner in the Baltimore area, she is known for her strong clinical judgment, attention to detail and unwavering dedication to patient advocacy. She plays an integral role in care coordination and treatment planning, working closely with multidisciplinary teams to improve outcomes and enhance the patient experience.

“We are excited to partner with American Oncology Network and establish The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders – Baltimore clinic,” said Dr. Auerbach. “Both CCBD and AON are dedicated to providing innovative, high-quality, and personalized cancer care in a community setting—just as Dr. Bahrain, Stephanie, and I have always done. This collaboration enhances our ability to deliver advanced treatments while preserving the patient-centered approach our patients rely on. We look forward to offering expanded services through this partnership to make care more convenient and improve outcomes for those we serve.” 

CCBD provides community-based oncology services to patients in Baltimore, Bethesda, and Germantown, Maryland. The practice offers comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostics, treatment, clinical trials, survivorship programs and patient support – all delivered close to home to reduce travel burdens for patients and their families. CCBD clinics feature private exam rooms and on-site infusion suites designed for patient comfort and privacy during treatment.

“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Auerbach, Dr. Bahrain, and Stephanie to the American Oncology Network and CCBD,” said  Todd Schonherz, AON’s chief executive officer. “They are known for the exceptional, patient-centered care they provide, and their expertise aligns perfectly with AON’s mission to deliver personalized cancer care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. We’re eager to collaborate and learn from the knowledge and experience they bring.”

“On behalf of AON, I am delighted to welcome Dr. Auerbach, Dr. Bahrain, and Stephanie to the network,” said Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD, AON’s chief medical officer. “Their dedication to providing quality care in a community setting has had a significant impact in Baltimore. Their expertise and commitment will greatly enhance our services and strengthen the care we provide across the network.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Auerbach, Dr. Bahrain, and Stephanie to the CCBD family,” said Ralph Boccia, MD, FACP, a longtime CCBD physician. “Their reputation for delivering high-quality, compassionate care speaks for itself, and we’re excited to benefit from their expertise. With their addition, we’re now expanding our reach to serve patients in Baltimore, and we look forward to growing together to meet the needs of even more communities across Maryland.”

Dr. Auerbach, Dr. Bahrain and Stephanie are now accepting new patients. For more information about AON, visit AONcology.com. To learn more about The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders – Baltimore, visit ccbdmd.com.

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About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success and viability of community oncology and other specialties. Founded in 2018, AON’s rapidly expanding network represents more than 290 providers practicing across 21 states. AON pioneers innovative healthcare solutions through its physician-led model, fostering value-based care that improves patient outcomes while reducing costs and expanding access to quality care. AON equips its network physicians with the tools they need to thrive independently while providing comprehensive support, integrated revenue-diversifying ancillary services, and practice management expertise, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest standard of care for every patient. AON is committed to promoting health equity by addressing disparities in cancer care and ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need to achieve optimal health outcomes. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, AON is shaping the future of community oncology. For more information, please visit AONcology.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube.

About The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders – Baltimore
Michael Auerbach, MD, FACP and Huzefa Bahrain, DO, FACP have been serving cancer patients at Auerbach Hematology and Oncology Associates PC, a trusted name in Baltimore, Maryland cancer care, for 24 years. In July 2025, Auerbach Hematology and Oncology Associates PC, joined American Oncology Network (AON). The practice is now known as The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD)—Baltimore.

Specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders and cancer, The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders has been serving patients in the communities and surrounding areas of Bethesda and Germantown, Maryland for more than 25 years. Their individualized approach to patient care includes chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and when appropriate, cutting edge therapies on clinical trials. The practice regularly performs more than 300 clinical trials on new and developing diagnostic devices and techniques for cancer and diseases. Patients receive home delivery of oral cancer medications, in-house lab and pathology and on-site infusion therapy. The practice also offers comprehensive support with nutrition guidance and financial counseling. Learn more at ccbdmd.com.

Media Contact:
Karen Riley Sawyer
American Oncology Network
Karen.Sawyer@AONcology.com

Local oncology practice moves to expanded location to enhance cancer care for Collier County community.

NAPLES, FL, July 1, 2025 – Florida Oncology and Hematology, a partner practice of American Oncology Network (AON), has relocated its Health Parkway clinic in Naples to a larger suite at 15455 Collier Blvd., Suite 101, in the Lintree Medical Plaza. Current and prospective patients can call (239) 231-7258 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Board-certified medical oncologist Ferdy Santiago, MD and Board-certified hematologist Deborah Glick, MD, are now seeing patients at the new location.

The expanded clinic offers PET services, an infusion room, additional private exam rooms for patient-physician discussions, in-house lab and pathology services, and an onsite specialty pharmacy for oral oncolytics.

“Our Health Parkway practice has moved to a larger suite in the Lintree Medical Plaza to better accommodate the needs of our Collier County patients,” said Dr. Santiago. “Providing exceptional, compassionate care remains our top priority, and this relocation allows us to do that in an even more comfortable and comprehensive setting. We’re grateful for our patients’ ongoing trust and look forward to welcoming them to the new space.”

Florida Oncology and Hematology’s other Naples-area clinic, located at 708 Goodlette-Frank Road, Suite 302 also recently expanded into a larger suite in June.

Florida Oncology and Hematology has five clinic locations serving patients in Cape Coral, Clearwater, Fort Myers, Naples, and surrounding areas. The practice is committed to delivering personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s individual needs. As a community-based practice, it offers affordable, high-quality treatment in a supportive, accessible environment.

The practice is a partner of American Oncology Network, one of the nation’s fastest-growing community-based oncology networks. Through this partnership, American Oncology Network makes additional patient care and services available such as access to the in-house specialty pharmacy, which provides home delivery of select medications and other supportive care resources.

“We’re excited to continue growing with our community,” said Dr. Santiago. “This new space allows us to expand services and bring in additional staff, ensuring each patient receives the individualized attention they deserve.”

For more information about AON, visit AONcology.com. To learn more about Florida Oncology and Hematology, visit floridaonc.com.

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About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success and viability of community oncology and other specialties. Founded in 2018, AON’s rapidly expanding network represents more than 290 providers practicing across 21 states. AON pioneers innovative healthcare solutions through its physician-led model, fostering value-based care that improves patient outcomes while reducing costs and expanding access to quality care. AON equips its network physicians with the tools they need to thrive independently while providing comprehensive support, integrated revenue-diversifying ancillary services, and practice management expertise, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest standard of care for every patient. AON is committed to promoting health equity by addressing disparities in cancer care and ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need to achieve optimal health outcomes. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, AON is shaping the future of community oncology. For more information, please visit AONcology.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube.

About Florida Oncology and Hematology
Specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and blood disorders, Florida Oncology and Hematology serves patients in Cape Coral, Clearwater, Fort Myers, and Naples, Florida. As a community-based practice, it offers a full range of exceptional cancer services, providing the highest quality treatment based on research and focused on the whole person. Learn more at floridaonc.com.

Media Contact:
Karen Riley Sawyer
American Oncology Network
Karen.Sawyer@AONcology.com

Several AON physicians and leaders shared new cancer research at one of oncology’s most influential gatherings

FORT MYERS, Fla., June 3, 2025 – American Oncology Network (AON), one of the nation’s fastest-growing networks of community oncology practices, is pleased to announce that multiple research studies co-authored by AON physicians and leaders were selected for presentation at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) 2025 Annual Meeting, held May 30-June 3 in Chicago.

The following abstracts were accepted after a rigorous review process and presented through poster discussions, oral presentations or online publication:

• Sunil Babu, MD, of Fort Wayne Medical Oncology and Hematology, co-authored:
  • “Safety and efficacy of ABBV-706, a seizure-related homolog protein 6 (SEZ6)—targeting antibody-drug conjugate, in high-grade neuroendocrine neoplasms.”
• Ruemu Ejedafeta Birhiray, MD, of Hematology Oncology of Indiana, co-authored “Advancing racial representation in clinical trials: An analysis of 53 ASCO plenary and late-breaking abstracts using the DRIVE score.”
• Ralph V. Boccia, MD, FACP, of The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, co-authored the following studies:
  • “Bria-IMT + checkpoint inhibitor: Phase I/II survival results compared to benchmark trials in metastatic breast cancer.”
  • “Impact of HLA matching on clinical outcomes in a phase 2 trial of Bria-IMT plus anti PD1 in advanced breast cancer.” 
• Jim Chen, MD, of Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute, authored “From trials to clinics: Real-world outcomes of neoadjuvant HER2 directed therapy in early-stage breast cancer using AI-enhanced data pipelines.”
• Puneeth Indurlal, MD, AON vice president of practice operations, authored this study:
  • “From data to dollars: Evaluating the predictive power of enhancing oncology model risk adjusters” and the following poster sessions:
    • “Cost-effective cancer care: The role of oncology biosimilars in generating cost savings.”
    • “The cost of convenience: Evaluating economic differences in SQ and IV biotherapeutic formulations.”
    • “Breaking down the 505(b)(2) drug price paradox.”
• Brian Mulherin, MD, of Hematology Oncology of Indiana, authored “Real-world data on bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) administration in community oncology settings.”
• Martin Palmeri, MD, MBA, of Messino Cancer Centers, chaired the “Speaking to Power with Power:  Advocating for your Profession” session and submitted material with the same title for the ASCO Educational Book.
• Shajadi Patan, MD, of MidAmerica Cancer Care, contributed to several pharmacovigilance and real-world evidence studies, including:
  • “Hepatotoxic adverse events with immune checkpoint inhibitors: Real world pharmacovigilance study using FAERS database.”
  • “Cardiac adverse events with PARP inhibitors: Real world pharmacovigilance study using FAERS database.”
  • “Radioimmunotherapy-associated myeloid neoplasms: Real-world multicenter retrospective study using TriNetX database.”
  • “Risk of second primary hematological malignancy post CAR-T cell therapy in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: Propensity-matched analysis using TriNetX database.”
  • “Radioimmunotherapy Associated Myeloid Neoplasms: Real-world Multicenter Retrospective Study using TrinetX Database.”
  • “Mortality and readmission rates post CAR-T cell therapy in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: Real-world, multicentre, retrospective cohort study using TriNetX database.”
  • “Incident reporting and outcomes of gastrointestinal adverse events with immune checkpoint inhibitors.”
  • “Trends of gastrointestinal secondary primary malignancy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients from 2000-2021: Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.”
  • “Comparative efficacy of PARP inhibitors in BRCA mutated HER2-negative breast cancer: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.”
• Taral Patel, MD, of Zangmeister Cancer Center, co-authored the following studies:
  • “Assessing practice gaps and challenges for immunotherapy integration in treatment of metastatic urothelial carcinoma.”
  • “A quality initiative focused on biomarker testing in stage IB-IIIA resected and stage IV non-small cell lung cancer patients.”
• Anne Marie Rainey, MSN, RN, CHC, CPHQ, AON’s director of value-based care, participated in this poster session: “Cost-effective cancer care: The role of ongoing biosimilars in generating cost savings.”
• Susan Sabo-Wagner, MSN, RN, OCN, NEA-BC, AON’s vice president of clinical innovation, participated in this educational session: “Addressing Barriers in Palliative Care for Rural and Underserved Communities” and led the “Pragmatic Insights from Community Oncology: Designing Care Plans to Address Social Needs” portion.

“It’s an honor to share our research and latest findings with peers at ASCO,” said Dr. Boccia, who is also the chairperson of AON’s Research Committee. “This platform fosters collaboration, innovation, and the advancement of clinical oncology. Our participation reflects our ongoing commitment to improving cancer care through evidence-based practices.”

“Oncology research isn’t just about discovering new treatments—it’s about deepening our understanding of cancer itself,” said Dr. Stephen “Fred” Divers, AON’s chief medical officer. “Each study brings us closer to more precise care, better outcomes and, ultimately, a cure. We’re proud to contribute to this vital mission.”

“Having so many of our physicians and leaders featured at ASCO speaks volumes about the caliber of talent across our network,” said Todd Schonherz, AON’s chief executive officer. “We are proud to support their work, which not only advances the field of oncology but also reinforces AON’s culture of innovation and learning.”

ASCO is one of the leading professional organizations for oncology professionals, offering more than 145 hours of education, collaboration and research insights each year during its annual meeting.

AON has numerous practices actively participating in clinical research. Currently, AON practices offer access to more than 150 clinical trials, making cutting-edge treatment options available within local communities.

For more information about AON, visit www.AONcology.com.

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About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success and viability of community oncology and other specialties. Founded in 2018, AON’s rapidly expanding network represents more than 290 providers practicing across 21 states. AON pioneers innovative healthcare solutions through its physician-led model, fostering value-based care that improves patient outcomes while reducing costs and expanding access to quality care. AON equips its network physicians with the tools they need to thrive independently while providing comprehensive support, integrated revenue-diversifying ancillary services, and practice management expertise, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest standard of care for every patient. AON is committed to promoting health equity by addressing disparities in cancer care and ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need to achieve optimal health outcomes. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, AON is shaping the future of community oncology. For more information, please visit AONcology.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube.

Media Contact:
Karen Riley Sawyer
American Oncology Network
Karen.Sawyer@AONcology.com

FORT MYERS, Fla., May 15, 2025 – American Oncology Network (AON), one of the nation’s fastest-growing community oncology networks, today announced the appointment of Joe Verschleiser as chief growth and performance officer.

“We are excited to welcome Joe to AON’s leadership team,” said Todd Schonherz, AON’s chief executive officer. “His deep experience in driving growth, executing strategic initiatives and leading operational improvements within healthcare organizations will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our national presence and support the long-term success of our partner practices.”

In his new role, Joe will lead growth strategy and performance optimization for AON partner practices, with a focus on expansion and new business line opportunities to support continued practice growth. He brings more than a decade of experience in healthcare, including executive leadership roles in operations, financial strategy and mergers and acquisitions.

Before joining AON, Joe served as president of the West Division at Unified Women’s Healthcare, where he led strategy, growth and operations for more than 200 physicians. He also held several other senior positions at Unified, including senior vice president of financial operations and strategy and vice president of mergers and acquisitions and corporate development. Earlier in his career, he was an investment banker at global firms including Jefferies and Rothschild & Co., with a focus on healthcare and physician services M&A.

“I am honored to join AON and help advance its mission of expanding access to high-quality, affordable cancer care,” said Verschleiser. “I look forward to working with this exceptional team to drive growth and improve outcomes for patients and providers across the country.”

“Joe brings a strong track record of driving value-based growth and building scalable infrastructure,” said Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD, AON’s chief medical officer. “His strategic vision will strengthen our ability to meet the evolving needs of patients and practices.”

Joe holds Bachelor of Science degrees in finance and accountancy and a Master of Science in accountancy from Villanova University.

For more information about AON, visit AONcology.com.

About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success and viability of community oncology and other specialties. Founded in 2018, AON’s rapidly expanding network represents more than 290 providers practicing across 21 states. AON pioneers innovative healthcare solutions through its physician-led model, fostering value-based care that improves patient outcomes while reducing costs and expanding access to quality care. AON equips its network physicians with the tools they need to thrive independently while providing comprehensive support, integrated revenue-diversifying ancillary services, and practice management expertise, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest standard of care for every patient. AON is committed to promoting health equity by addressing disparities in cancer care and ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need to achieve optimal health outcomes. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, AON is shaping the future of community oncology. For more information, please visit AONcology.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube.

Media Contact:
Karen Riley Sawyer
American Oncology Network
Karen.Sawyer@AONcology.com

FORT MYERS, Fla., May 13, 2025 – American Oncology Network (AON), one of the nation’s fastest-growing community oncology networks, today announced the appointment of Terri Casey as chief human resources officer (CHRO).

“We are pleased to welcome Terri to the AON leadership team,” said Todd Schonherz, AON’s chief executive officer. “Terri’s impressive background in human resources, employment law, and healthcare allows her to bring a strategic and multidisciplinary perspective to leadership and talent development that makes her a perfect fit for this essential role. Her deep knowledge of HR will be invaluable as we continue to grow AON.”

Terri brings more than 15 years of experience leading HR teams, including executive leadership roles in several physician specialty practices such as orthopedics, rehabilitation, aesthetics, and mental health. Her expertise lies in partnering with executives and boards to achieve financial goals by fostering a workplace culture that attracts and retains top talent.

“I am honored to join AON’s executive team,” said Casey. “AON’s mission to make cancer care affordable and accessible in communities across the country is truly inspiring. I am excited to bring my expertise to the team, continue building a strong workplace culture and create meaningful relationships that drive positive outcomes for our patients and providers.”

“The healthcare landscape is constantly evolving, creating new opportunities and workplace challenges that require the strategic HR leadership expertise Terri brings,” said Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD, AON’s chief medical officer. “Terri will be an invaluable strategic partner and will continue to strengthen our human resources function and organizational culture as AON grows and evolves.”

Prior to joining AON, Terri held positions at a boutique law firm and served as general counsel to clients on a wide range of employment matters, specializing in the healthcare industry. She also served as interim chief human resources officer for several healthcare organizations, including AON. She earned a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School.

For more information about AON, visit AONcology.com.

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About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success and viability of community oncology and other specialties. Founded in 2018, AON’s rapidly expanding network represents more than 290 providers practicing across 21 states. AON pioneers innovative healthcare solutions through its physician-led model, fostering value-based care that improves patient outcomes while reducing costs and expanding access to quality care. AON equips its network physicians with the tools they need to thrive independently while providing comprehensive support, integrated revenue-diversifying ancillary services, and practice management expertise, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest standard of care for every patient. AON is committed to promoting health equity by addressing disparities in cancer care and ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need to achieve optimal health outcomes. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, AON is shaping the future of community oncology. For more information, please visit AONcology.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube.

Media Contact:
Karen Riley Sawyer
American Oncology Network
Karen.Sawyer@AONcology.com