Accelerate research to expand access to clinical trials
Clinical trials represent hope for patients battling cancer, but barriers to access still exist. An estimated 17 to 20 percent of Americans live in rural areas, but only 3 percent of oncologists practice there. This imbalance makes it difficult for patients to receive care close to home, and the lack of awareness compounds the problem: more than 40% of Americans are unaware that clinical trials are an option.
“A clinical trial should be the first option for a patient battling cancer,” Hammonds said. “In the past, many patients had to travel to academic medical centers to participate in clinical trials. We changed that by bringing trials into the community setting.”
US Oncology Network practices, an organization of independent community providers supported by McKesson, are working with our joint venture, the Sarah Cannon Research Institute (SCRI) — one of the world’s leading oncology research organizations conducting community-based clinical trials — to expand patient access to innovative treatments. By leveraging real-world data and evidence, we enable the representation of a broader range of patients in clinical research, including individuals from underrepresented communities. This approach also helps inform regulatory decisions by providing a better understanding of treatment outcomes and safety profiles in populations.
Harnessing the power of technology to expand access to care
Healthcare and technology are converging faster than ever, and this intersection is creating new opportunities to improve access. Artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced information systems help community practices integrate clinical trials seamlessly and enable physicians to treat their patients with the most up-to-date therapies and clinical trial options.
“When I trained in the early 2000s, fewer than 10 oncology drugs were approved each year,” Dr. Shumway said. “This year, in 2025, we are on track to approve nearly 50 new drugs. This explosion of new drugs is wonderful, but it’s difficult to get this information to providers – especially when we see patients all day.”
Through Ontada, a McKesson real-world data business in oncology, we integrate evidence-based information directly into the workflow of approximately 3,300 providers, updating content within 24 hours of changes to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines.
Ontada’s iKnowMed electronic health record integrates biomarker testing and real-time genomics to reduce the time to diagnosis and treatment of complex cancers. Meanwhile, Genospace, our AI data-driven platform, helps match eligible patients to clinical trial options, ensuring access to advanced therapies without leaving their community.
Partnership in the fight against cancer
People with cancer rely on more than just their oncologist. Patients rely on a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals (nurses, social workers, pharmacists, nutritionists, psychologists, etc.) to manage their treatment and recovery.
“With more than half of cancer patients receiving care in the community setting, the partnership between the US Oncology Network, biopharmaceuticals and the broader oncology ecosystem gives me hope,” Hammonds said. “Oncology today is a paradox: We are seeing more breakthroughs than ever, but with these advances comes complexity and burdens on practices. Together, we are helping community oncologists meet these challenges by providing them with research opportunities, advanced technologies, and the support they need to deliver care where patients live, bringing hope and innovation to every corner of the community.”
At McKesson, we collaborate with healthcare teams to meet all dimensions of patient needs, from clinical to emotional support. By working with local organizations, advocacy groups and community leaders, we build trust and promote participation in research. These partnerships help ensure patients feel supported and informed throughout their journey.
Offering hope for the future
McKesson empowers community oncology practices and research sites with technologies, clinical trial resources and education that improve access and elevate care. Our goal is clear: to make cutting-edge cancer care accessible where patients live. By combining innovation, collaboration, and a relentless focus on access, we help bring hope back home.
