Community oncology practice continues to focus on patient-first care and advocacy.

COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 30, 2024 –  The Zangmeister Cancer Center, a partner practice of American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC), announced the launch of a local CPAN Chapter to support cancer patients and survivors and patient advocacy efforts.

“Having local cancer clinics that provide care and therapies is important to bridging the cancer care gap and ensuring patients can access these critical services close to where they live and work,” said Jeanna Knoble, MD, Board-certified medical oncologist at the Zangmeister Cancer Center. “We are excited to have launched a CPAN Chapter to facilitate important conversations about community oncology and healthcare policies affecting local, homegrown clinics. The Chapter will also serve as a platform for patients to have their voices heard on the importance of having local access to care and treatments and their experiences.”

CPAN (COA Patient Advocacy Network) is a “national organization formed to raise awareness of independent, community cancer care centers and how national and local healthcare policy issues affect patient care,” according to the Community Oncology Alliance’s (COA) CPAN website.

“CPAN Chapters are revolutionizing community oncology by highlighting the benefits independent practices deliver to patient care and outcomes,” said Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD, AON’s chief medical officer. “By supporting advocacy initiatives, like local CPAN Chapters, we can ensure that community oncology remains a key player and participant in vital healthcare policy discussions. The Zangmeister Cancer Center’s joining of CPAN will provide another avenue for advocacy of patient care in community settings, and it is with excitement that we congratulate the practice on getting involved with an esteemed initiative that will elevate cancer care for years to come.”

“We are honored to welcome the Zangmeister Cancer Center to CPAN,” said Rose Gerber, COA’s director of patient advocacy and education. “Accessible cancer care remains a critical issue in ongoing healthcare and government policy discussions. Unfavorable regulations and policies are forcing community oncology practices to close, jeopardizing patient access to critical care in their communities. Raising awareness of community oncology practices’ positive impact on patient care is crucial to ensure patients continue to receive high-quality care close to home.”

“I am honored to be serving as the liaison between our local and national CPAN efforts, working alongside Rose to strengthen the CPAN impact and reach,” said Dana Zager, MA, ATR-BC, MSW, LISW-S, OSW-C, ACHP-SW, Zangmeister Cancer Center’s Board-certified oncology social worker. “Bridging the gap between local and national initiatives creates a powerful network of support and advocacy for community oncology practices and their patients. Together, we can increase awareness, drive impact and ultimately, bring greater hope and better outcomes for everyone facing the cancer fight.”

The Zangmeister Cancer Center’s CPAN Chapter will be the third in Ohio and will join more than 30 community-based practices in over 15 states.

For more information about AON, visit www.AONcology.com. For more information about the Zangmeister Cancer Center, visit www.zangcenter.com.

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About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC) 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 240 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. Learn more at AONcology.com.

About Zangmeister Cancer Center
Designed for easy access and patient comfort, the center offers all of the services patients need as part of their cancer care, including diagnostic imaging and chemotherapy treatment, laboratory services, genetic consultation, a specialty pharmacy, social support services and access to cancer clinical trials. Our highly skilled and compassionate physicians use the latest advancements in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cancer and blood disorders. Learn more at zangcenter.com.  

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
American Oncology Network
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

The Foundation, a non-profit of the American Oncology Network, provides grants for essential non-medical expenses to cancer patients in need.

FORT MYERS, Fla., April 25, 2024 – American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC), one of the nation’s fastest-growing community oncology networks, today launched its American Oncology Cares Foundation through its partner practices Hematology Oncology of Indiana in Indianapolis and Hope Cancer Care of Nevada in Las Vegas.

Non-medical expenses such as rent or mortgage, utilities, transportation costs and food qualify under the Foundation’s essential living expenses requirement. Grant recipients are eligible to receive up to $750 per calendar year.

Fifty-one percent of cancer patients have reported going into medical debt because of care and treatment costs and more than 70% responded that they are worried about affording their care, according to a survey by the American Cancer Society.

“The costs of cancer care and associated treatments can be devastating,” said Shelly Glenn, AON’s chief growth and relationship officer. “The Foundation was created to provide financial support for essential non-medical expenses to give peace of mind to adult cancer patients and their families. Unfortunately, It can be a common occurrence for patients to delay critical therapies, go without electricity or water, have their car repossessed or be evicted from their home, for example, to afford their care, and this tradeoff between care and essential resources should never be made. We are honored to launch the Foundation through our partner practices Hematology Oncology of Indiana and Hope Cancer Care of Nevada.”

Adult cancer patients currently undergoing treatment in Indiana and Nevada may now qualify for financial support through the Foundation. Other criteria for consideration include the following:

• Be 18 years or older.
• Have a household income that is at or below 200% of the U.S. Poverty Guidelines.

“Cancer treatments can reach incredible costs, depending on the diagnosis and personalized therapy plans,” said Raja S. Mehdi, MD, Board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist at Hope Cancer Care of Nevada. “Those in healthcare witness firsthand the financial burden families experience during treatments. The opportunity to have the American Oncology Cares Foundation an option for patients in Nevada is a critical step in ensuring people can focus on their health and recovery and less on their everyday expenses.”

“Financial burdens of cancer treatments should never be a barrier to ensuring the quality of life and that the basic expenses associated with living are met,” said Brian P. Mulherin, MD, Board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist at Hematology Oncology of Indiana. “We are honored to have the Foundation partner with us in their nationwide mission to provide financial support to cancer patients in need in Indiana.”

“The Foundation fills a crucial gap in the healthcare system,” said Todd Schonherz, AON’s chief executive officer. “Alleviating financial stress allows patients to focus their energy on recovery and empowers them to prioritize their health without the added stress of financial burdens. I am grateful we can bring the Foundation and its grants to Indiana and Nevada because we believe that financial well-being is just as important as physical well-being.”

The Foundation officially launched in October 2023 and leverages the non-profit America’s Charities to administer and manage the fund, review patient applications and distribute patient grants. While the fund currently operates solely in Arizona, Indiana, Nevada and Ohio, the intent is to expand the initiative with the hope that patients in all states in which AON operates will one day be able to benefit from the fund.

Patients who are interested in applying for a grant can complete the online application at www.charities.org/AONCares. Donations may also be made to the Foundation to support local cancer patients in need; to donate, visit www.AONcology.com/AONCares.

For more information about AON, visit www.AONcology.com. For more information about the American Oncology Cares Foundation, visit www.AONcology.com/american-oncology-cares.

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About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC) 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 240 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. Learn more at AONcology.com.

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
American Oncology Network
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

Hawaii Cancer Care partners with American Oncology Network to continue delivering quality cancer care to the community.

HONOLULU, April 3, 2024 –  American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC), one of the nation’s fastest-growing community oncology networks, is pleased to announce its expansion into Hawaii and welcomes Hawaii Cancer Care to the network.

“Our goal at AON is to partner with independent community oncology practices to further close the cancer care gap,” said Todd Schonherz, AON’s chief executive officer. “It is practices like Hawaii Cancer Care that are vital to the care delivery process ensuring patients have access to the care they need to treat their cancers and blood disorders. Independent medical practices that operate within communities, both large and small, offer significant benefits to patients, such as, limiting the distance traveled for care and often providing the same high-quality care and services at a more affordable price, which are critical components to the overall health journey. I’d like to welcome Hawaii Cancer Care and the care team to AON and am eager to witness the positive impacts they will continue to have in the community.”

Hawaii Cancer Care currently has clinics in Aiea and Honolulu to ensure cancer care is accessible to residents in the community. The facilities are equipped to deliver various cancer treatment modalities, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy as well as hormonal, targeted, biologic and certain cellular therapies.

The practice encompasses a team of highly trained Board-certified medical oncologists and hematologists: Jon S. Fukumoto, MD; Melvin P. Palalay, MD; David J. Tamura, MD; and Arnold K. Yee, MD, MPH. Additionally, the physician group is supported by a team of highly skilled and compassionate advanced practitioners to further provide patient care: Judy Ko, RN, MSN, APRN; Bryce Montalbo, DNP-FNP; and Ashley Mae Springer, RN, MSN, AGPCNP-BC.

“We are happy to be partnering with American Oncology Network,” said the physicians at Hawaii Cancer Care. “We are passionate about serving our local community with the highest level of care we can in an environment that is comfortable and supportive. Our approach to patient care revolves around creating treatment plans that are individualized and precision based. In our efforts to elevate our services, partnering with AON gives us the additional resources and support so that we can continue our patient-first care approach that we require from our care teams.”

“We are eager to welcome Hawaii Cancer Care to AON,” said Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD, AON’s chief medical officer. “Hawaii is the newest state in our network, and we are honored to have the opportunity to bring our services, resources and support the patients of Hawaii Cancer Care. The practice already has a comprehensive menu of cancer care services that are valuable to patients at every stage in their diagnosis. While the practice has a solid foundation of services, we look forward to supporting the physicians and care team as they continue their mission to deliver high-quality patient care.”

For more information about AON, visit www.AONcology.com. For more information about Hawaii Cancer Care, visit hawaiicancercare.com.  

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About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC) 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 240 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. Learn more at AONcology.com.

About Hawaii Cancer Care
Our team of doctors are highly recognized medical professionals with years of experience in cancer treatment. The doctors on staff have the expertise required to treat various types of cancers at various stages using the most recent proven advances in cancer care as well as education and support to our patients and their families. Our patient-focused, highly trained medical staff is here for you and ready to assist and support you with all your treatment needs. Learn more at hawaiicancercare.com.

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
American Oncology Network
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

AON will attend the 2024 Community Oncology Conference as an exhibitor, and its leaders will serve as panelists in various educational sessions.

FORT MYERS, Fla., March 28, 2024 – American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC) announced its attendance and panel participation at the annual Community Oncology Alliance (COA) conference from April 4 to April 5 in Orlando, Florida, to further its mission of closing the cancer care gap and ensuring the viability of community oncology.

“At AON, we are passionate about supporting the medical practices that reside in our hometowns because of the immense benefits they bring patients,” said Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD, AON’s chief medical officer, medical oncologist at Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute and co-chair of the COA conference. “We are embracing the conference’s theme of ‘Stronger Together’ and believe in the power of collaboration to improve clinical and patient outcomes, ensuring that there is a healthier future for cancer patients across the nation. I look forward to witnessing our leaders who will take the stage as panelists to share insights that we hope will resonate and guide our fellow colleagues in the industry.”

AON leaders invited to speak at the conference include the following individuals:

• Jim Chen, MD, an AON consultant and incoming physician, is a panelist in the session “Is AI Ready for Prime Time for Cancer Care.”
• Stephen “Fred” Divers, MD, is a panelist in the sessions “Welcome From the Co-Chairs,” “Defining Value in Oncology: Executing VBC Accurately & Ethically to Account for All Stakeholders,” “Reflections From the Co-Chairs” and “Meeting Observations From the Co-Chairs.” 
• James Gilmore, PharmD, AON’s chief pharmacy and clinical services officer, is a panelist in the session “Managing Formularies: Successfully Navigating Multiple Formularies to Balance Clinical & Financial Outcomes.”
• Mark Moch, AON’s chief information officer, is a panelist in the session “Preparing for Precision Medicine 2.0 in Community Oncology.”
• Martin Palmeri, MD, MBA, medical oncologist at Messino Cancer Centers, is a panelist in the session “Hospitals: Friend or Foe? Examining Independent Practice-Hospital Relationships & Trends.”
• Alti Rahman, MHA/MBA, CSSBB, AON’s chief strategy and innovation officer, is a panelist in the sessions “Welcome From the Co-Chairs,” “Guardians of Confidentiality: Navigating Cybersecurity & Data Privacy in Oncology,” “Is AI Ready for Prime Time for Cancer Care,” “Reflections From the Co-Chairs” and “Meeting Observations From the Co-Chairs.”
• Jan Smithson, regional physician liaison manager for Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute, is a panelist in the session “Marketing Matters: Driving Provider Referrals in Competitive Marketplaces.”

AON is a fellow leader in the community oncology sector and dedicated to paving the way for independent practices to thrive independently with its support and resources, generating new revenue streams and growth in locations and patient services. Since its inception, AON has provided administrative support and access to critical offerings such as the in-house pharmacy and laboratory services to independent oncology medical practices.

Through the partnership with AON, physicians have the resources needed to focus on providing the highest standard of care to every patient while continuing to deliver comprehensive cancer care, therapies and expanded patient services in their clinics, reducing the reliance on larger health systems and other third-party companies.

“AON and COA share similar missions, which creates a strong foundation for impact in the community oncology industry, and we are excited to be involved in the COA conference this year,” said Rahman, AON’s chief strategy and innovation officer who also serves as co-chair of the COA conference. “In any sector of healthcare, the sharing of information, knowledge and best practices is important to achieving the necessary advancements in medicine. The conference brings together today’s healthcare and community oncology leaders for two days of education and networking. We understand the future of healthcare is a collective effort, and the conference provides a platform to foster unity and the exchange of information. At AON, we strive to be more than event attendees and seek to be catalysts for community oncology.”

AON is an exhibitor at the conference and can be found at booth 305.  

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

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About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC) 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 220 providers practicing across 20 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. Learn more at AONcology.com.

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
American Oncology Network
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com

Local oncology practice moves its clinic to continue providing enhanced cancer care to the Zachary community.

ZACHARY, La., March 18, 2024 – Hematology Oncology Clinic, a partner practice of American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC), has relocated its clinic in Zachary to 4242 Highway 19, Suite 19. The new Zachary clinic is located approximately three miles away from its original location and is now open to new and current patients.

Hematology Oncology Clinic’s Board-certified medical oncologist Michael J. Castine, III, MD, is the primary physician at the Zachary clinic and is joined by the practice’s experienced clinical team. The clinic offers four private exam rooms that provide dedicated space for patient-physician conversations and 12 infusion chairs for patients receiving certain therapies as part of their treatment plans. The site is also equipped with an onsite laboratory for immediate blood draws and other required work.

“While our clinic has a new address, our standards of patient care have not changed,” said Dr. Castine, III. “The practice holds itself to continuously providing high-quality care and services to our patients in a compassionate and holistic manner that is central to our patient-first mindset. This is a definite in all of Hematology Oncology Clinic’s three clinic locations. We appreciate our patients’ continued trust in us and look forward to serving them at our new address in Zachary.”

Hematology Oncology Clinic has been delivering care to patients living in Baton Rouge, Zachary, Alexandria and the surrounding area for many years. The practice ensures patients receive personalized care and treatment plans that are designed exclusively for their unique needs. As a community-based practice, Hematology Oncology Clinic provides affordable care in a comfortable environment while offering high-quality, state-of-the-art treatment in convenient locations.

The practice is a partner of American Oncology Network, one of the nation’s fastest-growing community-based networks. Through this partnership, Hematology Oncology Clinic makes additional patient care and services available such as access to the in-house specialty pharmacy with home delivery of certain medications among other benefits.

“We cannot wait to welcome our patients to the new space, where we will continue to prioritize their health and well-being,” said Dr. Castine, III. “The relocation will allow us to expand patient services and therapeutics, while also providing a larger space for additional staff to deliver one-on-one care.”

For more information about AON, visit www.AONcology.com. For more information about Hematology Oncology Clinic, visit www.hocbr.com.

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About American Oncology Network
American Oncology Network (AON) (Nasdaq: AONC) 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 220 providers practicing across 20 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. Learn more at www.AONcology.com.

About Hematology Oncology Clinic
Specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders and cancer, the Hematology Oncology Clinic serves patients from offices in Baton Rouge, Zachary and Alexandria, Louisiana. Our Board-certified physicians include Dr. Gerald Miletello, Dr. Christopher McCanless, Dr. Michael Castine, III and Dr. Pavani Ellipeddi. The practice’s highly trained and experienced clinical staff consists of nurse practitioners, oncology-certified registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. Learn more at www.hocbr.com.

Contact for more information:
Caroline Hewitt, Vice President of Marketing
American Oncology Network
Caroline.Hewitt@AONcology.com