ASCO Core Values: Essential to Progress in Innovative, Quality Cancer Care

Abstract

Advances in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and supportive care have converged to result in dramatic changes in cancer mortality. Despite population growth and aging, the past year marked the first declineincancerdeathsintheUnitedStatessincecancerstatisticswere initially recorded in 1931, and both early detection and improved treatments have led to an increase in overall cancer survivorship. Today, the total number of cancer survivors in the United States exceeds 10 million, compared with 3 million in 1971. As a member of the oncology community, I am proud of these accomplishments. However, even in this era of great advances in basic and clinical science—and sometimes because of them—we face significant challenges. The rising costs of oncology treatment and the chasms created by health disparities can preclude equal access to treatment, and the commercial nature of the United States health careindustrymaycreateeithertheperceptionoforactualconflicts of interest that erode the public trust. We must ensure that these challenges do not slow the pace of research or delay the development and delivery of new oncology products to all cancer patients. Upholding the highest professional standards, ensuring equitable access to treatment, and maintaining the trust of our patients are essential if we are to maintain our momentum. Withtheseobjectives,theAmericanSocietyofClinicalOncology (ASCO) recently revised its Core Values to reflect the Society’s aspirations and document the fundamental elements of professionalethicalbehaviorintherealmofoncologycare:commitment, integrity, competence, innovation, and inclusivity. By articulating thesevalues,ASCOreaffirmsitscommitmenttokeepthemcentral to our mission and activities. ASCO advises oncologists to adhere to these principles in their interactions with patients, colleagues and the health care industry. In this issue of the Journal of Clinical Oncology, readers will find a Special Article by Dr Rebecca Pentz et al 1 in which the authors discuss the history of physician codes, including ASCO’s Core Values, and use examples to highlight how these values apply in daily oncology practice. ASCO strives to abide by these principles in its own work. Through initiatives like the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI), which was recently expanded to all members, ASCO has demonstrated its commitment to innovation, maximizing the quality of cancer care, and ensuring provider competence through self-assessment. The work of the Advisory Group on health disparities is evidence of ASCO’s dedication to ensuring that cancer care, including the availability of clinical trials, is both culturally sensitive andavailabletoall.Aseriesofvignettes,intendedtoprovideguidance tomembersoncircumstancesthatraiseethical,aswellasmedicaland