Tue Sep 10 18:07:00 UTC 2024: ## Cancer Centers Emphasize Diversity in Oncology Workforce at Policy Summit
**WASHINGTON, D.C. – September 10, 2024** – The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) hosted a policy summit today in Washington, D.C., focused on advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the oncology workforce. The event, titled “Advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Cancer Workforce,” highlighted the crucial role of a diverse workforce in improving cancer outcomes and addressing disparities in care.
Keynote speaker Tiffany Wallace, PhD, Branch Director of the Disparities Research Branch at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Center for Cancer Health Equity, emphasized the importance of DEI as a cornerstone of cancer research and patient care. Panel discussions explored strategies to create and maintain a culture of inclusivity and belonging, especially in the face of evolving policies.
“Improving representation for all people affected by cancer, both in the oncology workforce and within oncology research, will help us to improve treatment options and care delivery for every patient,” stated Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, Chief Executive Officer of NCCN.
The summit underscored the need for inclusive leadership and emphasized the integration of DEI values into strategic planning and budgets. Speakers highlighted the impact of underrepresentation in clinical trials, which can lead to treatments that are less effective or even harmful for certain populations.
“Clinical trials that do not include diverse populations may not accurately represent the real-world population,” explained Eugene Manley, Jr., PhD, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of STEMM & Cancer Health Equity Foundation. “We have to do a better job of being out in the community, explaining basic medical information and cancer information to our most marginalized populations so that they can have access to equitable care.”
The summit also addressed the legal challenges surrounding workplace DEI programs and provided guidance on best practices for promoting diversity in hiring and recruitment.
The NCCN Policy Program will continue its focus on DEI with the upcoming annual NCCN Patient Advocacy Summit on December 6, 2024, which will focus on patient education.
**About the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)**
The NCCN is a non-profit alliance of leading cancer centers dedicated to patient care, research, and education. NCCN works to improve and facilitate quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care for all patients.
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