Aetna And US Oncology Team Up To Improve Quality, Cost Of Cancer Care
Innovent Oncology program promotes evidence-based guidelines, specialized patient care and efficiency in cancer treatment
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HARTFORD, Conn., May 19, 2010 — Aetna (NYSE: ΑET) and US Oncology Inc. announced today that Innovent Oncology, a subsidiary of US Oncology Inc., will deliver progressive, comprehensive cancer care programs for Aetna members and participating oncologists. The program expands the use of evidence-based guidelines and expert nurse support to deliver proven quality cancer care that helps patients beat cancer with fewer side effects, less time in treatment and less financial strain. This collaboration follows a recent study by US Oncology and Aetna that found evidence-based care for patients with non-small cell lung cancer resulted in equivalent health outcomes and a 35 percent cost savings, demonstrating that high-quality, evidence-based care can actually reduce costs. Aetna and US Oncology expect to achieve similar results in the treatment of 14 of the most commonly diagnosed cancers, including colorectal cancer and breast cancer. “We know cancer treatment is often a long, emotional and confusing process. We want patients to have access to the most effective -- and the safest -- treatment options and care support,” said Lonny Reisman, M.D., Aetna chief medical officer. “By relying on the best medical evidence and working closely with the medical community, Aetna will expand access to programs that improve the quality of cancer care for members and link this higher quality care with appropriate reimbursement for physicians.” “Innovent Oncology offers a unique focus that supports cancer patients through the entire cancer care continuum,” says Bruce Broussard, chairman and CEO of US Oncology. “We intend to improve the way cancer care is delivered by addressing the key drivers in quality cancer care, including the use of proven treatments, managing adverse side events, and involving patients and families early in end-of-life discussions.” A three-pronged approach In collaboration with patients’ oncologists and Aetna’s care management team, Innovent Oncology’s nurses will provide patients with proactive care support from the first scheduled treatment through the course of therapy. The nurses specialize exclusively in cancer care and can help patients and caregivers understand and manage treatment symptoms and side effects, including depression. Members will also have access to end-of-life planning and support, if those hard decisions become necessary, from the nurses as well as the team of clinicians from Aetna’s Compassionate Care program who have specific expertise in end-of-life support. US Oncology-affiliated physicians who participate in Aetna’s network, including Texas Oncology, will participate in the initial launch of this program. “Innovent Oncology supports our more comprehensive approach to cancer care – moving beyond drug utilization to focus on the entire spectrum of patient care,” says R. Steven Paulson, M.D., president and chairman of the board for Texas Oncology, a community-based oncology practice with more than 300 physicians and a member of the United Network of US Oncology. “We’re excited to bring this high-quality program to Aetna members throughout the state of Texas.” About Aetna About US Oncology About Innovent Oncology
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