Starting Strong: The Role of Fellows in Medical Advocacy

The involvement of oncology fellows in state policy and advocacy efforts is essential for enhancing cancer care and advancing research. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) provides up-to-date information and opportunities for oncology advocacy, helping oncologists early in their career to be aware of how to contribute to local, state, and national initiatives. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Katherine Baker, MD, medical director of value-based care and medical oncologist at Tennessee Oncology, to discuss her experience in engaging in advocacy efforts with the American Society of Hematology (ASH), the Community Oncology Alliance (COA), and her current role as a board member on the Tennessee Oncology Practice Society (TOPS) advocacy committee. We also hear from Haley M Simpson, MD, PhD, physician-scientist, Division of Hematology at the University of Colorado, about the direct impact of advocacy on patient care.

“To me, forming coalitions through these [national] organizations is essential for driving meaningful, long lasting policy change, as collective voices are often much stronger and more impactful than individual efforts on your own.” -Katherine Baker, MD

“By getting involved in advocacy and policy earlier in your career, it has all the more ability to amplify the impact for patients.” -Haley Simpson, MD, PhD

Katherine Baker, MD, MMHC

Medical Director of Value-Based Care and Medical Oncologist

Tennessee Oncology

Nashville, TN

Haley M. Simpson, MD, PhD

Physician-Scientist, Division of Hematology

University of Colorado

Aurora, CO

This podcast is part of the Oncology State Societies (OSS) Policy and Advocacy program, made possible through the support of Johnson & Johnson.

Please visit your state society's website for potential fellowship opportunities, which you can find here. For any questions or to learn about upcoming events and opportunities, feel free to email Amanda Impellizzeri directly at aimpellizzeri@accc-cancer.org.

Resources

ACCC and OSS Advocacy Engagement Initiative 

ACCC Legislative Action Center 

NCCN Policy Fellows Program 

ASCO Advocacy Resources 

ASCO Fellows Resources