Clinical trials offer important treatment options for people with cancer, but barriers to access remain. While 17% to 20% of Americans live in rural areas, only about 3% of oncologists practice there, and more than 40% of Americans are unaware that trials are an option.
“In the past, many patients have had to travel to academic medical centers to participate in clinical trials. We’ve changed that by bringing trials into the community setting,” said Hammonds.
Practices within The US Oncology Network, an organization of independent, community-based providers supported by McKesson, are working with Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI), a joint venture and one of the world’s leading community-based oncology research organizations, to expand patient access to innovative treatments. Using real-world data and evidence, these efforts aim to represent a broader range of patients in clinical research, including individuals from underrepresented communities, and to inform regulatory decisions with a clearer picture of treatment outcomes and safety across populations.
Advances in technology are helping integrate clinical trials into community practices. Artificial intelligence and advanced information systems enable physicians to offer up-to-date therapies and trial options within routine workflows. “When I trained in the early 2000s, less than 10 oncological drugs were approved each year. This year in 2025, we’re on pace to approve close to 50 new drugs,” said Dr. Shumway. “That explosion of new drugs is wonderful but trying to get that information out to providers — especially when we’re seeing patients all day — is difficult.”
McKesson’s Ontada business embeds evidence-based insights into the workflows of about 3,300 providers, updating content within 24 hours of changes to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines. Ontada’s iKnowMed electronic health record integrates biomarker testing and real-time genomics to reduce time to diagnosis and treatment of complex cancers. Genospace, an AI-driven platform, helps match eligible patients with clinical trials so they can access advanced therapies without leaving their communities.
Cancer care depends on multidisciplinary teams including nurses, social workers, pharmacists, nutritionists and psychologists. With more than half of cancer patients treated in community settings, collaboration across The US Oncology Network, biopharmaceutical companies and the broader oncology ecosystem helps community practices manage increasing treatment complexity while offering research opportunities and technological support, Hammonds said.
McKesson works with local organizations, advocacy groups and community leaders to build trust, foster participation in research and address clinical and emotional patient needs. These partnerships aim to ensure patients feel supported and informed throughout their care journeys.
McKesson’s approach focuses on equipping community-based oncology practices and research sites with technology, clinical trial resources and education to improve access and elevate care. The goal is to make cutting-edge cancer treatments and clinical trials available where patients live.
Leave a Reply