MILWAUKEE, WI – May 22, 2023 - The Hematology/Oncology Pharmacy Association (HOPA) has partnered with Stupid Cancer, the leader in young adult cancer advocacy, research, and support, to develop tools for healthcare providers who serve the adolescent and young adult (AYA) patient community.
AYAs with cancer have unique medical, psychosocial, and supportive care needs that differ from both younger pediatric patients and older adults with cancer.
“To fully understand the distinct needs and challenges of adolescents and young adults with cancer, we look at the entire continuum of care,” says Alison Silberman, Chief Executive Officer of Stupid Cancer. “Oncology pharmacists play a critical role in caring for AYA cancer patients.”
Along with other professional cancer organizations, Stupid Cancer and HOPA seek to identify and address gaps in AYA cancer services through focus groups, surveys, and discussions with providers, patients, and families.
“Education and advocacy are two lesser-known aspects of an oncology pharmacist’s role on the cancer care team,” says LeAnne Kennedy, PharmD, BCOP, CPP, FHOPA, HOPA President and Oncology Clinical Manager at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. “For this project, HOPA members volunteer their time to provide insights, curate resources, and raise awareness for all AYAs with cancer, especially those from historically marginalized communities.”
“For this project, HOPA members volunteer their time to provide insights, curate resources, and raise awareness for all AYAs with cancer, especially those from historically marginalized communities.”
This ongoing collaboration seeks to characterize the healthcare experience for this age group and develop resources for providers, as well as patients. “This is a crucial step in addressing the needs of AYA cancer patients and improving their care experience,” says Silberman.
By working together and incorporating the perspective and voice of oncology pharmacists, Stupid Cancer, HOPA, and other cancer organizations demonstrate a commitment to a more comprehensive and supportive care model for AYA cancer patients.
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 pharmacists, pharmacy interns, residents, fellows, students, technicians, researchers, and administrators who specialize in hematology/oncology pharmacy. Its vision is to ensure that all individuals affected by cancer have a hematology/oncology pharmacist as an integral member of their care team.
Stupid Cancer helps empower everyone affected by adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer by ending isolation and building community. Through our innovative online and in person programming, we provide age-appropriate information and resources and build connections in the AYA community so patients, survivors, caregivers, and professionals can Get Busy Living. Visit stupidcancer.org to learn more.
