Community Oncology Gains CAR-T Access, AON Expands Network Reach
Event summary
- The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD), a partner practice of American Oncology Network (AON), has begun administering FDA-approved CAR T-cell therapy in Maryland.
- CCBD is among the first community oncology practices to offer CAR T-cell therapy outside of a hospital setting.
- Dr. Ralph Boccia, medical director of CCBD and AON Research, spearheaded the program, leveraging prior experience with four CAR T-cell clinical trials.
- Maryland Medicaid provides coverage for CAR T-cell therapy through specialized access models, effective January 1, 2026.
The big picture
The expansion of CAR T-cell therapy to community oncology settings represents a significant shift in cancer care delivery, addressing a critical need for increased patient access and reduced travel burdens. AON's strategy of leveraging physician-led research and collaboration with local hospitals positions it to capitalize on this trend, but the financial sustainability of these programs remains dependent on favorable reimbursement policies and continued clinical trial participation. This move challenges the traditional hospital-centric model for advanced cancer treatment and could reshape the competitive landscape within the oncology sector.
What we're watching
- Reimbursement Risk
- While current coverage exists, shifts in Maryland Medicaid policies or commercial payer strategies could significantly impact CCBD's CAR-T program viability.
- Network Expansion
- The success of CCBD’s program will likely dictate the pace at which AON rolls out CAR T-cell therapy to other community oncology practices within its network.
- Clinical Trial Dependence
- CCBD’s experience with clinical trials has been crucial; the ability to maintain patient enrollment and access to innovative therapies through trials will be key to sustaining its CAR-T offering.
Related topics