AVBCC Value-Based Voices

Rachael
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  • Non-Profit

The Association for Value-Based Cancer Care’s (AVBCC) podcast series addresses the ever-evolving landscape of value related to cancer care in the United States. Our goal is to foster informed dialogue, promote transparency, and empower all players to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of cancer care with clarity and confidence.

  1. 2d ago

    From Patient to Person: Redefining Cancer Care at the AVBCC LA Regional Collaborative

    In this episode of Value‑Based Voices, host Deirdre “Dee” Saulet, PhD, Chief Strategy Officer, Jasper Health, and AVBCC Southwest Regional Collaborative Co-Chair, sits down with two extraordinary guests, Kommah "Koko" McDowell, MS, a 21‑year survivor, nationally recognized advocate, and Chief Customer Officer at Tali Health, and Leon Cristobal, MPH, an eight‑year leukemia survivor, and Oncology Sales Consultant, Bayer. Recorded following the AVBCC Regional Collaborative in Los Angeles, this conversation explores what person‑centered care truly looks like in practice—and why the distinction between “patient” and “person” is more than semantics. Koko and Leon share candid reflections on being seen, heard, dismissed, supported, and ultimately cared for by the teams who walked alongside them. Together, they unpack the realities of ageism, cultural bias, caregiver strain, communication gaps, and the emotional weight of diagnosis. They also illuminate the frontline heroes—nurses, navigators, physicians, and access teams—whose humanity shapes the cancer experience. This episode is a call to action for every stakeholder across oncology to design solutions with humility, curiosity, and a commitment to treating people as whole beings. A powerful, deeply human conversation you won’t forget. Resources AVBCC Regional Collaboratives: avbcc.org/regional-collaboratives Association for Value‑Based Cancer Care (AVBCC): avbcc.org City of Hope: cityofhope.org Connect with the Speakers KoKo McDowell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kommahmcdowell/ Leon Cristobal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leon-cristobal/ Deirdre “Dee” Saulet: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deirdresaulet/ Contact Value-Based Voices - Follow AVBCC on LinkedIn   - View our podcast lineup  - Contact us at info@avbcc.org Thanks for listening!

  2. Aug 25

    Red Tape: Real Consequences for Patients with Cancer

    What happens when patients with cancer spend weeks navigating insurance requirements before receiving physician-prescribed care? In our latest episode of Value-Based Voices, Brian Reid, Principal of Reid Strategic and author of the Cost Curve newsletter, and Jayson Slotnik, JD, MPH, Partner at Health Policy Strategies, and AVBCC Board Member, sit down with CancerCare's  Alexandra Zaleta, PhD, VP of Research & Insights, and Kim Czubaruk, JD, VP of Policy, to discuss findings from CancerCare's groundbreaking Red Tape Report. Based on responses from more than 1,200 people affected by cancer, the report sheds light on the very real impact of prior authorization, coverage interruptions, step therapy, and other utilization management practices on patients and families.  Our conversation explores: • The clinical, financial, and emotional impact of treatment delays  • Why patients with employer-sponsored coverage reported some of the greatest administrative burdens  • The growing challenge of "time toxicity" for both patients and caregivers  • Coverage disruptions during active treatment  • Opportunities for employers, providers, policymakers, and advocates to work together on solutions  One theme emerged clearly throughout the discussion: when access barriers delay care, the costs extend far beyond claims data. Patients, caregivers, providers, and employers all feel the impact. Resources: CancerCare: https://www.cancercare.org/ The Red Tape Report: https://www.cancercare.org/redtape Connect with our Guests: Alexandra Zaletta, PhD: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-zaleta/ Kim Zubarak, JD: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-czubaruk-50532261/ Brian Reid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianbreid/ Jayson Slotnik, JD, MPH: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayson-slotnik-3932305/ #ValueBasedCare #Oncology #CancerCare #HealthcarePolicy #PatientAccess #PriorAuthorization #CancerAdvocacy #HealthBenefits #ValueBasedVoices #CancerCareDelivery Contact Value-Based Voices - Follow AVBCC on LinkedIn   - View our podcast lineup  - Contact us at info@avbcc.org Thanks for listening!

  3. Aug 11

    Part D Upheaval: Why the Cancer Community Needs to Pay Attention

    In this episode of Value-Based Voices, host Jayson Slotnik, JD, MPH, Partner at Health Policy Strategies, and AVBCC Board Member, sits down with Joel White, Partner and Head of Health Practice at Monument Advocacy, and a principal architect of Medicare Part D, to discuss one of the most consequential challenges facing cancer care today: the end of the Part D Premium Stabilization Demonstration.  Bringing unmatched historical insight, policy fluency, and practical clarity to the conversation, Joel breaks down how we got here, how this decision will affect access to cancer therapies, and the real, actionable solutions that could stabilize the market and protect patients.  Tune in to gain an understanding for this moment and the path forward! Resources & Links:  Medicare Part D overview: https://www.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d Medicare Extra Help / Low-Income Subsidy: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help   Connect with Our Guests:  Connect with Joel White:   / joel-white-6b8a953/ Connect with Jayson Slotnik:   / jayson-slotnik-3932305   Contact Value-Based Voices - Follow AVBCC on LinkedIn   - View our podcast lineup  - Contact us at info@avbcc.org Thanks for listening!

  4. Aug 4

    Can the U.S. Keep Its Edge? FDA Policy, China’s Momentum, and the Future of Innovation

    In this follow up conversation, Jayson Slotnik, JD, MPH, Partner at Health Policy Strategies and AVBCC Board Members, and Steve Usdin, Senior Editor, Washington, BioCentury Publications, take a clear eyed look at the future of the FDA and the forces shaping biopharmaceutical innovation. Building on their earlier discussion of FDA history and political dynamics, Steve offers candid insights into how U.S. policy, global competition - particularly with China - and shifting regulatory priorities are influencing the life sciences ecosystem. He explores: - the implications of NIH funding erosion - restrictions on international collaboration - immigration challenges - the growing tension around drug pricing and intellectual property - practical realities companies and investors must navigate in coming months The episode also examines what the FDA can do to strengthen clinical trial efficiency, restore transparency, and rebuild confidence across industry and patient communities. Thoughtful, timely, and grounded in deep policy expertise, this conversation offers listeners a nuanced understanding of where the FDA is headed, and what that means for the future of oncology innovation. If you missed Part 1 of this conversation, catch it here. Resources & Links: BioCentury Publications Operation Trial Blazer Connect with Our Guests: Connect with Steve Usdin  Connect with Jayson Slotnik   Contact Value-Based Voices - Follow AVBCC on LinkedIn   - View our podcast lineup  - Contact us at info@avbcc.org Thanks for listening!

  5. Jul 28

    The Future of the FDA: What Comes Next?

    In this first of a 2-part series featuring Steve Usdin, Senior Editor, Washington, BioCentury Publications, host Jayson Slotnik, JD, MPH, Partner at Health Policy Strategies and AVBCC Board Member, leads a spirited conversation around  developments at the FDA, the political influence shaping its decisions, and the outlook for the future.  Key topics covered include: The state of morale among FDA career staff and the challenges in attracting new talentEroding confidence levels within the investor community and implications for fundingPolitical and ideological influence on FDA activities The debate over the upcoming FDA commissioner appointment and potential candidatesThe significance of recent initiatives like Operation Trial Blazer in restoring confidenceOpportunities for optimism with FDA’s recent engagement with rare disease advocates and international collaboration effortsResources & Links:  BioCentury PublicationsOperation Trial BlazerConnect with Our Guests:  Connect with Steve UsdinConnect with Jayson SlotnikContact Value-Based Voices - Follow AVBCC on LinkedIn   - View our podcast lineup  - Contact us at info@avbcc.org Thanks for listening!

  6. Jun 30

    Reflections on the NCCN

    In this episode of Value-Based Voices, we delve into the mission and inner workings of the NCCN, a cornerstone organization shaping cancer treatment standards in the U.S. and beyond. We're joined by Bill McGivney, PhD, Principal, McGivney Global Advisors, and Former CEO, NCCN; and host Nicolas Ferreyros, Managing Director, Policy, Advocacy, and Communications, Community Oncology Alliance.  Hear expert insights on how guidelines, payer decisions, and evolving technologies influence patient access and outcomes as well as some of Bill's own thoughts on the NCCN and his time at its helm.  Resources & Links:  National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)NCCN GuidelinesCommunity Oncology Alliance Connect with Our Guests:  Connect with Bill McGivney Connect with Nicolas Ferreyros Contact Value-Based Voices - Follow AVBCC on LinkedIn   - View our podcast lineup  - Contact us at info@avbcc.org Thanks for listening!

  7. Jun 16

    Advancing Cancer Research and Innovation through Collaboration at GCRIS 2026

    We're taking a deep dive into the upcoming Global Cancer Research and Innovation Symposium (GCRIS) in this latest episode of Value-Based Voices. Join GCRIS Scientific Co-chairs Stan Skrzypczak, MS, MBA, Managing Partner, 5 Prime Life Science Consulting, and Nick Sarlis, MD, PhD, FACP, Chief Medical Officer, Cleara Biotech, as they talk with GCRIS Co-chair Matt Vossler, Managing Director, DSG Global, about the groundbreaking science, innovative drug development, and collaborative ecosystems that are reshaping oncology.  Hear about:  - the rise of "biotech 2.0"  - the complexity of bringing new therapies to market - strategies to accelerate drug development cycles and regulatory pathways - what the future holds for researchers and the investors eager to capitalize on emerging science - why GCRIS and its collaborative, unscripted conversations are needed now more than ever Whether you’re in research, investment, or policy, this episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the curve in cancer innovation.  Request your invitation to attend the GCRIS taking place October 5-6, 2026 in New York City: https://avbcc.org/gcris/ ******************************************** Resources & Links • Swim Across America: https://www.swimacrossamerica.org Contact Value-Based Voices - Follow AVBCC on LinkedIn   - View our podcast lineup  - Contact us at info@avbcc.org Thanks for listening!

  8. Jun 2

    Breaking the Model: Can Value-Based Insurance Deliver?

    Most cancer drugs today are more effective and accessible than ever—yet patients often face crushing costs because our healthcare system still values profit over patient benefit. What if the key to transforming cancer care affordability lies in rethinking insurance design, reforming PBMs, and empowering employers with transparent data?  In this eye-opening episode of Value-Based Voices, host Jayson Slotnik, JD, MPH, Partner, Health Policy Strategies, Inc., and Member of the AVBCC Board of Directors, sits down with healthcare thought leader John O'Brien, PharmD, MPH, President and CEO of the National Pharmaceutical Council, and healthcare policy strategist Brian Reid, MS, Senior Fellow at Tufts-CEVR and author of the Cost Curve newsletter. They explore how recent policy shifts, advances in medicine, and innovative data tools could finally create a healthcare environment where high-value cancer treatments reach those who need them most—without unnecessary barriers or skyrocketing costs.  Discover the revolutionary potential of value-based insurance design and how new approaches to drug pricing, formulary placement, and patient cost sharing could reshape the future of cancer care. You'll learn about the critical barriers—such as rebates, rebates-driven formulary decisions, and cost-sharing hurdles—and how a data-rich, employer-led movement could finally tip the balance toward affordability and access. We break down the crucial role of employers, PBMs, and policy reforms in enabling this shift, as well as the clinical, economic, and patient-centered benefits of prioritizing value. With insights from recent research, upcoming innovations in cancer medicine delivery, and a forward-looking view of industry trends, you'll understand why this is the moment to watch for change—and be part of it.  Perfect for healthcare professionals, policymakers, advocates, and anyone impacted by cancer treatment costs—this episode offers a compelling look at the potential to dramatically improve how we deliver and pay for life-saving medicines. If you're ready for a future where affordability meets innovation, this conversation is essential listening.   Resources & Links: - National Pharmaceutical Council - Health Affairs  - Cost Curve Newsletter  - Brian Reid's Website    Connect: - Dr. John O'Brien  - Brian Reid  - Jayson Slotnik  Contact Value-Based Voices - Follow AVBCC on LinkedIn   - View our podcast lineup  - Contact us at info@avbcc.org Thanks for listening!

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About

The Association for Value-Based Cancer Care’s (AVBCC) podcast series addresses the ever-evolving landscape of value related to cancer care in the United States. Our goal is to foster informed dialogue, promote transparency, and empower all players to navigate the rapidly changing landscape of cancer care with clarity and confidence.

Information

  • Creator
    Rachael
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 AVBCC Value-Based Voices
  • Show Website
    AVBCC Value-Based Voices

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