As part of the cancer care team, oncology pharmacists interact with and advocate for patients on a daily basis, serving as important points of contact for patients and their families. On Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at 12 p.m. ET, the COA Patient Advocacy Network (CPAN) Advocacy Chat highlighted the key role that oncology pharmacists play in community oncology practices.

When preparing and dispensing drugs, oncology pharmacists employ special storage and handling equipment, coordinate transport and delivery, and work with physicians to ensure patients receive the most effective treatment and experience minimal side effects.

Pharmacists do much more than just dispense drugs, however, especially in specialties like oncology. In addition to preparing treatments, each day oncology pharmacists also serve as counselors to patients receiving treatment and discuss possible side effects, handle insurance issues, and even seek out financial assistance. Pharmacists are also important patient advocates who push for lower prescription costs at the pharmacy counter.

COA's Director of Patient Advocacy and Education, Rose Gerber, MS, was joined by two of our favorite oncology pharmacists, COA’s Director of Clinical Initiatives, Judy Alberto, MHA, RPh, BCOP and Jonas Congelli, RPh, chief strategy officer at Hematology-Oncology Associates of Central NY (HOACNY) for this important conversation. Both Judy and Jonas have extensive histories in oncology pharmacy and brought their expertise to the table, describing the ins and outs of a typical oncology pharmacist’s job.

This event was part of our virtual CPAN Advocacy Chats series - short, monthly educational webinars on key cancer issues and the policies that impact them. Each month features a new topic and special guests joining us. Patients, survivors, caregivers, and other cancer care advocates are all invited to join us for these free, interactive, virtual events!