Texas Oncology hosts Advocacy Day at the Texas State Capitol

Austin, Texas – February 19th: Texas Oncology, a pioneer in community-based cancer care, rallied at the Texas State Capitol for Advocacy Day. Ninety physician leaders and advocates met with over 50 legislators to emphasize the importance of accessible, high-quality, affordable cancer care close to home. This event underscored Texas Oncology’s commitment to patient care that extends beyond the walls of their 300+ sites of service across Texas and southeastern Oklahoma.

Founded in 1986, Texas Oncology has been a champion of community oncology, a model that allows patients to receive advanced care within their local communities, surrounded by the support of family and friends. This approach is not simply about convenience; it’s about recognizing the vital role that a strong support system plays in a patient’s cancer journey. By keeping patients connected to their loved ones and familiar surroundings, Texas Oncology fosters a sense of comfort and normalcy during a challenging time.

Texas Oncology used this Advocacy Day to advocate on several key legislative priorities aimed at protecting patients and enhancing cancer care in Texas. These priorities include:

• Protecting Patient Choice and Timely Access to Safe Care: This involves combating insurance tactics such as prior authorization, step therapy, and patient steerage that can delay or deny necessary treatments.
• Expanding Access and Investing in Prevention: Texas Oncology advocates for increased access to telemedicine, cancer screenings, and genetic counseling, empowering patients with knowledge and timely care.
• Enhancing Patient Quality of Life and Well-being: This includes supporting initiatives that address the physical and emotional impacts of cancer, such as coverage for hair prostheses for patients undergoing treatment.

Honoring a Physician Champion: Dr. Debra Patt

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to advocating for independent community oncology, The US Oncology Network presented Dr. Debra Patt with the first-ever “Physician Advocacy Champion” award in addition to her receiving a member resolution from State Representative, Tom Oliverson, MD.

“This award acknowledges a physician who has gone above and beyond in championing the cause of independent community oncology by actively engaging with policymakers at the state and federal levels, ensuring patient access to high-quality, affordable care,” stated Angela Storseth, Sr. Director of Government Relations & Advocacy, The US Oncology Network.

Dr. Patt’s dedication to patient care and her tireless advocacy efforts exemplify the spirit of this award.

Texas Oncology’s Advocacy Day served as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective action in shaping healthcare policies that benefit cancer patients, and we thank the participants that made this event a success. By engaging with lawmakers and advocating for a strong and accessible healthcare system, Texas Oncology continues to be a leading voice for cancer patients in Texas and beyond.