Board-certified medical oncologist joins AON’s CCBD physician teamBETHESDA, Md., Oct. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- American Oncology Network (AON), one of the nation’s fastest-growing networks of community-based oncology practices, and its partner practice, The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD), today announced that medical oncologist Chitra Rajagopal, MD (“Dr. Raj”), has joined the physician care team. She will see patients in Germantown and Bethesda, Maryland, alongside the practice’s existing ...

Core Insights - Conway Hematology Oncology (CHO) has joined the American Oncology Network (AON), enhancing its ability to provide patient-focused services and expand clinical trial offerings [1][2][6] Company Overview - CHO has been a trusted provider of hematology and oncology care in Conway, Arkansas, since its founding in 1998 by Dr. Sue Tsuda [3][11] - The practice is recognized as the longest-running full-time cancer clinic in Faulkner County, Arkansas, and is dedicated to the physical and mental health of cancer patients and their families [11] Partnership Details - The partnership with AON allows CHO to broaden its services and bring advanced treatments to patients while maintaining high-quality, compassionate care [2][6] - AON is a rapidly expanding network representing over 300 providers across 20 states, focusing on community oncology and innovative healthcare solutions [10] Leadership and Expertise - Dr. Sue Tsuda, co-founder of CHO, is a board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist with extensive training and experience in the field [3] - The team at CHO includes board-certified nurse practitioners Christine Lightfoot and Courtney Nash, both of whom have been providing care in Arkansas for several years [4][5] Commitment to Care - CHO offers comprehensive community-based oncology services, including the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies, private exam rooms, an onsite laboratory, and infusion suites designed for patient comfort [6][11] - AON's mission aligns with CHO's commitment to personalized, high-quality care in a community setting, aiming to improve cancer care accessibility [7][10]

Core Viewpoint - Auerbach Hematology and Oncology Associates PC has joined the American Oncology Network (AON), rebranding as The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders (CCBD)—Baltimore, to enhance patient services and expand clinical trial offerings [1][11]. Company Overview - Auerbach Hematology and Oncology Associates PC has been providing cancer care in Baltimore for 24 years and is now part of AON, which represents over 290 providers across 21 states [10][11]. - The practice specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of blood disorders and cancer, offering services such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trials [12]. Leadership and Expertise - Dr. Michael Auerbach, Dr. Huzefa Bahrain, and Stephanie Horrocks are key figures in the practice, with extensive backgrounds in hematology and oncology [3][4][5]. - Dr. Auerbach is recognized for his expertise in iron deficiency anemia and serves as a Clinical Professor at Georgetown University [3]. - Dr. Bahrain is a key opinion leader in intravenous iron treatment and has multiple publications in the field [4]. Partnership Benefits - The partnership with AON allows CCBD to provide innovative, high-quality, and personalized cancer care while maintaining a patient-centered approach [6][9]. - The collaboration aims to enhance service delivery and improve patient outcomes through expanded offerings and resources [6][9]. Community Impact - CCBD serves patients in Baltimore, Bethesda, and Germantown, Maryland, focusing on reducing travel burdens for patients and their families [8]. - The practice features private exam rooms and on-site infusion suites to ensure patient comfort and privacy during treatment [8].

Core Insights - American Oncology Network (AON) is participating in 14 speaking sessions at the 2025 Community Oncology Alliance (COA) Annual Conference, focusing on advocacy, innovation, and access in independent community oncology [1][2] Group 1: Conference Details - The conference will take place on April 29-30, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, under the theme "Empower & Advocate: Independent Community Oncology" [1] - AON leaders will discuss various topics including payer contracting, value-based care, patient advocacy, clinical trials, and mental health programs [2][4] Group 2: Leadership and Contributions - Stephen "Fred" Divers, MD, AON's chief medical officer, emphasizes the importance of local practices in delivering patient-centered care [2] - Alti Rahman, AON chief strategy and innovation officer, highlights the shared mission of AON and COA to protect and promote independent oncology [5] Group 3: AON's Support Services - AON provides comprehensive support services to independent oncology practices, including in-house pharmacy, lab services, and revenue-diversifying programs [5][7] - The organization aims to enable physicians to focus on high-quality care without reliance on hospital systems or third-party providers [5][7] Group 4: Commitment to Health Equity - AON is dedicated to promoting health equity by addressing disparities in cancer care and ensuring access to quality care for all patients [7]