As part of ongoing efforts to respond to a rapidly evolving oncology practice environment, ASCO is conducting a groundbreaking national survey to better understand the challenges facing oncology practices brought on by the current economic, legislative, and regulatory changes. Under the guidance of ASCO's Clinical Practice Committee (CPC), and in collaboration with the Center for Workforce Studies at the State University of New York-Albany, the Assessment of the Evolution and Status of Practices Survey (AESOP) is aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of current oncology practice environments. This study will provide timely and accurate data about oncology practices to help inform ASCO's policy positions with policymakers, cancer advocates, and health-care consumers.

"Many systemic pressures in the health-care system today stand in the way of the best possible cancer care and research. These pressures include the implementation of health-care reform, a flawed sustainable growth rate, the movement toward Accountable Care Organizations, and other new proposed payment models," said Therese Mulvey, MD, member of the CPC steering subcommittee and AESOP project leader. "In order to continue to effectively advocate on behalf of our members, ASCO needs more detailed information about how member practices are faring in the current environment in order to provide the most accurate, compelling information to lawmakers and regulators."

Comprehensive Report

The AESOP survey will collect critical data on the number of oncology practices in the United States and provide ASCO with an accurate profile and a more in-depth understanding of the types of practices, staffing configurations, and affiliations that practices have with hospitals, medical centers, and other facilities. AESOP will also provide important insight on issues of critical concern such as the number of practices that have been forced to close, merge and/or reduce staff, salaries, or the patient services they provide.

"ASCO will publish a comprehensive report and fact sheet on the state of oncology practices in the U.S. based on the results of this first-ever national survey. We also anticipate that this project will not be a static, one-time event, but will be an ongoing effort to collect and refine data over time so that we may continue to advocate effectively for our members and their patients for years to come," said Dr. Mulvey.

To participate in the AESOP survey, please contact practice@asco.org or visit ASCO in Action at ascoaction.asco.org. ■