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Incoming Association of Community Cancer Centers president to focus on cancer care team burnout ‘epidemic’
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WASHINGTON — Because of the dramatic physical, intellectual and emotional drain experienced by all members of the cancer care experience, the new Association of Community Cancer Centers president will focus on the theme of burnout during his term.
When considering the theme, Thomas A. Gallo, MS, executive director of Virginia Cancer Institute, said that — although the process was stressful — even his job as an administrator “is trivial to the daily stress of trying to provide the best care to patients and families during the most difficult times of their lives.”
“Burnout is on the rise as oncology becomes increasingly complex with new treatment options, growing financial toxicity and an increasingly burdensome health care system,” Gallo told the Association of Community Cancer Centers House of Delegates during the ACCC Annual Meeting & Cancer Center Business Summit. “I am struck by the frustration and demoralization of the cancer care teams that I have met.”
The title of his 2018-2019 presidential theme is “Reflect. Renew. Reignite: Creating a Resilient Oncology Team in your Community.”
Gallo said he will explore these questions:
- How will we keep our cancer care team healthy and engaged?
- How do we structure our cancer care teams to be effective and productive?
- How do we foster an environment to help our cancer care team members focus and fulfill the mission they envisioned when they entered the oncology field?
“I challenge you today to help create a system that works within the new realities,” Gallo said.
Gallo said he wishes to “engage in conversations that will allow ACCC members an opportunity to reflect on why they entered the field of oncology; to renew their commitment to their programs and patients; and reignite their energy in part by empowering them through ACCC education and resources.”
“Together we are all stronger,” he said.
Mark S. Soberman, MD, MBA, FACS, outgoing president of Association of Community Cancer Centers, worked with Gallo on the ACCC board and on its executive committee.
“An accomplished practice administrator, Tom truly understand the complexities of cancer care and is a strong advocate for patients and providers,” Soberman said. “He has been a valued member of ACCC’s board and I look forward to his leadership.”
Gallo also praised Soberman’s contributions to the association.
“[He] has brought an important focus to next-generation multidisciplinary care over the past year,” Gallo said. “He is a tremendous leader and also a lot of fun to work with.” – by Joan-Marie Stiglich, ELS
Reference:
Gallo T. ACCC House of delegates and business meeting. Presented at: ACCC Annual Meeting & Cancer Center Business Summit; March 14-16, 2018; Washington.
Disclosure: Gallo reports no relevant disclosures.