KINGMAN — The American Cancer Society recently awarded $20,000 to KRMC’s WL Nugent Cancer Center to provide transportation assistance for oncology patients during their treatment.
“Providing quality cancer care means ensuring patients can travel to treatments. The American Cancer Society’s generosity continues to change lives, and this support is deeply appreciated. This grant directly removes a critical barrier to care, ensuring that transportation insecurity doesn’t stand between our patients and the quality cancer care they deserve,” said Gena Potter, case manager at KRMC’s WL Nugent Cancer Center
This marks the sixth time the American Cancer Society has awarded a patient transportation grant to KRMC’s WL Nugent Cancer Center. In the past year alone, the grant enabled a remarkable 2,019 patient trips for treatment, ensuring cancer patients could consistently attend their appointments.
“We are extremely grateful to the American Cancer Society for their unwavering commitment in helping cancer patients overcome transportation barriers,” said Diana Lalitsasivimol, Sponsored Funds Program manager. “Their continued support not only provides access to essential treatment, but also fosters hope and equity for those facing cancer in our community.”
Access to high-quality cancer treatment impacts cancer outcomes. A lack of transportation and lodging needed to receive quality care can lead to missed appointments, treatment interruptions, and delays in follow-up care. In a 2023 Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI) study, American Cancer Society researchers found that delayed care due to lack of transportation is associated with increased emergency room use and mortality risk among adults with and without cancer history.
“Transportation obstacles or the cost of a hotel room should not be barriers that determine the survival of those needing cancer treatment,” said Dr. Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society. “Partnering with health systems and organizations across the country to provide funding to deliver the direct assistance needed helps to fill these equity gaps and improves cancer outcomes.”
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