The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) is a professional organization supporting the cancer care community. Established in 1964, ASCO currently comprises over 50,000 members, with approximately one-third originating from outside the United States, representing more than 170 countries. The organization focuses on conquering cancer through research, education, and the promotion of high-quality patient care, with a vision of a world where cancer is either prevented or cured, and all survivors thrive. ASCO provides a range of resources and benefits to its members, including access to publications, meeting discounts, professional development opportunities, advocacy support, and networking platforms. The organization also supports research through its affiliate, Conquer Cancer, the ASCO Foundation.
ASCO’s Core Mission and Structure
ASCO operates as a charitable, educational, and scientific organization dedicated to improving cancer care. Its strategic plan centers on delivering information and expertise to the global oncology community to lessen the impact of cancer. The organization’s structure is diverse, encompassing all oncology subspecialties, allowing for professional and personal growth through collaboration with colleagues worldwide. This inclusivity extends to international members, who constitute a significant portion of the membership base. ASCO’s activities are facilitated through more than 20 standing committees, editorial boards, task forces, and working groups.
Membership and Benefits
ASCO and the Association for Clinical Oncology jointly offer membership to all members of the cancer care team. This inclusive approach ensures that all professionals involved in cancer care have access to the same resources, products, and publications. Membership benefits include access to premier oncology periodicals, discounted registration for ASCO meetings, career and professional development resources, tools for practice improvement, advocacy channels, and networking opportunities. Members can also participate in a variety of membership categories tailored to their career stage and specific needs. Opportunities for involvement include membership directories and access to the myConnection platform.
ASCO Guidelines and Quality Improvement
A significant component of ASCO’s work involves the development of evidence-based guidelines for cancer treatment and care. ASCO Guidelines are created by multidisciplinary panels of experts, including patient advocates, and address both disease-specific clinical situations and the appropriate use of medical products, procedures, and tests. These guidelines aim to provide clinicians with recommendations for optimal patient care.
ASCO also prioritizes quality improvement initiatives. Programs such as the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI) and QOPI Certification Program are designed to enhance the quality of cancer care delivery. Additional quality improvement resources include the ASCO Certified program, quality training programs, and global quality initiatives. ASCO also develops and implements quality measures, offering a measures library and facilitating open comment periods for draft measures. Cancer care standards, including those for oncology medical homes and safe handling of hazardous drugs, are also established and maintained.
Research and Data Initiatives
ASCO actively supports cancer research through various initiatives. The organization funds groundbreaking research and programs through its affiliate, Conquer Cancer, the ASCO Foundation. Research initiatives include the Targeted Agent & Profiling Utilization Registry (TAPUR) Study, the CDK4/6 Inhibitor Dosing Knowledge (CDK) Study, and access to clinical trials. ASCO also publishes journals and maintains a data library, including the State of Cancer Care in America report and a research survey pool. The ASCO Data Library provides access to a wealth of information for researchers and clinicians.
Educational and Training Programs
ASCO offers a comprehensive range of educational and training programs for oncology professionals. These programs include training programs, global courses, a global curriculum, the Medical Oncology In-Training Examination, and resilience skills training. Combined hematology/oncology and hospice & palliative medicine training programs are also available. These programs aim to enhance the knowledge and skills of oncology professionals at all career stages.
Meetings and Presentations
ASCO hosts meetings where the latest oncology research is presented. Abstracts and presentations from these meetings are readily accessible. The ASCO Annual Meeting is a prominent event for sharing cutting-edge research and best practices in cancer care. Joint sessions and endorsements are also featured at ASCO meetings.
Practice Support and Resources
ASCO provides a variety of resources to support oncology practices. These resources include information on drug shortages, staff well-being and development, and alternative payment models. ASCO also offers guidance on billing, coding, and reporting, including information on MACRA and the Quality Payment Program, as well as Medicare program updates.
Patient Resources and Advocacy
ASCO is committed to providing resources for patients with cancer. The ASCO Patient Information Editorial Board develops patient-friendly materials, and resources such as Breaking Cancer News for Patients and ASCO Resources for Patients & Providers are available. ASCO also supports patient advocacy programs and opportunities, including programs for patient advocates at the ASCO Annual Meeting and the Conquer Cancer Patient Advocate Award Program. Advocacy efforts are a key component of ASCO’s mission, with an advocacy agenda and initiatives focused on improving cancer care policy.
Global Initiatives and Disaster Relief
ASCO extends its reach globally, offering support and resources to oncology professionals worldwide. The organization also provides assistance in response to global crises, such as the earthquake in Myanmar, and offers resources for public health issues. Information and support are available for patients and physicians in Ukraine and neighboring countries.
Get Involved Opportunities
ASCO offers numerous opportunities for individuals to get involved. These include membership options, advocacy initiatives, volunteer opportunities, and participation in ASCO Patient Advocacy Programs. Opportunities to volunteer include serving on committees, participating in the FASCO Distinction program, and contributing to the International Cancer Corps. ASCO Regional Councils also provide avenues for involvement.
Conclusion
The American Society of Clinical Oncology serves as a central hub for the cancer care community, providing a wide array of resources, educational opportunities, and advocacy support. Through its commitment to research, quality improvement, and patient-centered care, ASCO strives to reduce the burden of cancer globally. The organization’s diverse membership and inclusive approach foster collaboration and innovation, ultimately contributing to advancements in cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship.