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The involvement of oncology fellows in state policy and advocacy efforts is essential for enhancing cancer care and advancing research. The Association of Cancer Care Centers (ACCC) provides up-to-date information and opportunities for oncology advocacy, helping oncologists early in their career to be aware of how to contribute to local, state, and national initiatives. In this episode, CANCER BUZZ speaks with Katherine Baker, MD, medical director of value-based care and medical oncologist at Tennessee Oncology, to discuss her experience in engaging in advocacy efforts with the American Society of Hematology (ASH), the Community Oncology Alliance (COA), and her current role as a board member on the Tennessee Oncology Practice Society (TOPS) advocacy committee. We also hear from Haley M Simpson, MD, PhD, physician-scientist, Division of Hematology at the University of Colorado, about the direct impact of advocacy on patient care.
“To me, forming coalitions through these [national] organizations is essential for driving meaningful, long lasting policy change, as collective voices are often much stronger and more impactful than individual efforts on your own.” -Katherine Baker, MD
“By getting involved in advocacy and policy earlier in your career, it has all the more ability to amplify the impact for patients.” -Haley Simpson, MD, PhD
This podcast is part of the Oncology State Societies (OSS) Policy and Advocacy program, made possible through the support of Johnson & Johnson.
Please visit your state society's website for potential fellowship opportunities, which you can find here. For any questions or to learn about upcoming events and opportunities, feel free to email Amanda Impellizzeri directly at aimpellizzeri@accc-cancer.org.
Guests:
Katherine Baker, MD, MMHC
Medical Director of Value-Based Care and Medical Oncologist
Tennessee Oncology
Nashville, TN
Haley M. Simpson, MD, PhD
Physician-Scientist, Division of Hematology
University of Colorado
Aurora, CO
Additional Resources:
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author(s)/faculty member(s) and do not reflect the official policy or position of their employer(s) or the Association of Cancer Care Centers.
July 8, 2026
June 30, 2026
At the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting, the Louisiana Oncology Society received the ASCO Jeffrey C Ward Affiliate Advocacy Award for advancing critical advocacy priorities that have translated into meaningful legislative victories. The Iowa Oncology Society and Washington State Medical Oncology Society were also recognized for their advocacy efforts in 2025 at the meeting, receiving second place awards.
