Milwaukee, WI - The Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA), the Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation (BMCF), and Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy have partnered on digital tools and outreach to support patients who are navigating the complexities of cancer treatment.
"The CancerBuddy app serves as a lifeline for patients, caregivers, and survivors and fosters a supportive community where individuals with similar diagnoses can exchange experiences and insights," said Christina Merrill, Founder and CEO of BMCF. "By leveraging technology, we ensure that nobody has to navigate their cancer journey alone."
Through this collaboration, users of the CancerBuddy app gain access to valuable educational resources about the role of oncology pharmacy in cancer care. "Collaboration is the cornerstone of effective cancer care," said Jolynn Sessions, PharmD, BCOP, FHOPA, HOPA President. "By combining our cancer-medication expertise with the Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation, and Walgreens Specialty we can help CancerBuddy users feel more informed and empowered."
The organizations recently hosted a CancerBuddy Conversation, entitled The Oncology Pharmacist: Guiding You Through the Cancer Care Journey, which provided a comprehensive overview of the various roles of oncology pharmacists in cancer treatment. A recording is available in HOPA's YouTube video library.
"Every patient deserves access to information and support tailored to their unique needs," said Laly Havern, PharmD, MS, BCACP, Director of Clinical Pharmacy Strategy at Walgreens. "We're honored to join forces with HOPA and the Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation to provide this critical guidance to CancerBuddy users."
Users can access resources directly through the CancerBuddy app, available on both iOS and android devices.
About HOPA
The Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) supports hematology/oncology pharmacy professionals and promotes the role of the pharmacist in collaborative cancer care. Founded in 2004, HOPA provides crucial education, networking, and advancement opportunities frequently sought by pharmacy interns, residents, fellows, students, technicians, researchers, and administrators who specialize in hematology/oncology pharmacy. Its vision is to ensure all individuals affected by cancer have a hematology/oncology pharmacist as an integral member of their care team. Learn more at hoparx.org
About Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy
Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy holds several national pharmacy accreditations and services are offered to nearly 300 million covered lives across the country. At Walgreens, the term “specialty” covers services and medications for patients with rare, complex and chronic diseases like cancer, cystic fibrosis and Crohn’s disease, who often require additional support from their healthcare providers. Walgreens specialty pharmacists have additional training to better understand these specialty medications which have unique storage, temperature, and handling requirements; are given by infusion, injection or taken orally; and require close patient monitoring and ongoing clinical support. They also help patients find affordable access to high-cost medications, help with adherence barriers and support patients throughout their treatment. Visit walgreensspecialtyrx.com for details.
About the Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation
The Bone Marrow & Cancer Foundation (BMCF) is a national non-profit organization committed to supporting cancer and bone marrow/stem cell transplant patients and their families as they navigate the complexities of diagnosis and treatment. We offer vital financial support, patient navigation, counseling, emotional support programs, referrals to physicians and hospitals, and a social support network through initiatives like the CancerBuddy app. All of our services are provided free of charge. To date, BMCF has distributed over $12 million in financial assistance to more than 150,000 patients and their families. We work collaboratively with hospitals across the United States to ensure that our programs and services remain accessible and impactful for those in need. Discover more at bonemarrow.org.
