NCCN Policy Summit: Cancer Across Geography

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Oncology
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Geographic location is a critical determinant of cancer care access, affecting preventive screenings and early detection.
• While common cancers are more prevalent in urban areas, rural communities experience higher cancer mortality rates.
• Indigenous communities on tribal lands face compounded access issues and environmental carcinogen exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore geographic disparities in cancer care access and outcomes.
• To identify and discuss emerging best practices and policy solutions to overcome barriers to quality cancer care.
• To foster dialogue among diverse stakeholders on advancing equitable cancer care provision.

Main Methods:

• The study summarizes discussions from the NCCN Policy Summit "Cancer Across Geography" held on June 15, 2023.
• Keynote addresses and multistakeholder panel discussions facilitated exploration of care imbalances.
• A hybrid event format allowed for diverse participation from clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders.

Main Results:

• The summit highlighted significant care imbalances across different geographic regions.
• Policy and technology advancements were discussed in the context of current cancer care challenges.
• The event emphasized the need for innovative policy and practice solutions to close care gaps.

Conclusions:

• Addressing geographic disparities in cancer care requires understanding the interplay between location and access.
• Establishing bidirectional trust between patients and providers is essential for meaningful reform.
• Collaborative efforts are crucial to ensure high-quality, effective, efficient, equitable, and accessible cancer care for all populations.