World Cancer Day: Providing a Patient-Centered Approach Through Together for Supportive Cancer Care With Daneen Sekoni

What is Supportive Cancer Care?

Supportive cancer care extends beyond medical treatment to address the diverse needs of patients throughout their journey. “Supportive cancer care means whole-person care tailored to the unique needs of individuals at every stage of their journey,” explains Ms. Sekoni. “It addresses physical, emotional, spiritual, community, financial, and educational dimensions.”

This approach empowers patients and caregivers with knowledge and resources, reducing isolation and improving overall outcomes. By addressing these six pillars, the initiative seeks to instill hope and resilience among those impacted by cancer.

The Vision Behind Together for Supportive Cancer Care

The coalition arose from a glaring gap in the US healthcare system—a lack of consistent, equitable access to supportive services. Ms. Sekoni explains, “We recognized that supportive cancer care wasn’t uniformly provided, despite its critical role in improving outcomes. Together for Supportive Cancer Care brings stakeholders together to establish a national standard and bridge this gap.”

The initiative targets all phases of the cancer continuum—diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship—acknowledging that patient and caregiver needs evolve over time.

Structure and Goals of the Initiative

Comprising over 40 national organizations, the coalition operates under three main pillars: policy advocacy, research, and employer engagement. Ms. Sekoni elaborates, “Evidence shows that supportive cancer care leads to better outcomes, reduced hospitalizations, and lower healthcare costs. By focusing on policy, data, and employer education, we aim to ensure coverage and access for all.”

A vital aspect of the initiative is advocating for equitable access to services, particularly among historically underserved populations such as Black, Hispanic, Latino, and rural communities.

Caregiver Inclusion: A Game-Changer

A distinguishing feature of this initiative is its emphasis on caregivers. Currently, caregivers’ mental health and wellbeing often go unaddressed. Ms. Sekoni underscores: “When caregivers are supported, they are better equipped to help their loved ones, which improves outcomes for everyone involved.”

This comprehensive approach ensures that the wellbeing of the entire care team—including caregivers—is prioritized.

Implications for Patients and Providers

For patients, accessing supportive services starts with advocacy. Ms. Sekoni advises, “Patients and caregivers should not hesitate to ask their providers about services beyond treatment. Emotional support, community resources, and financial assistance are all integral to holistic care.”

Healthcare provider also play a pivotal role in connecting patients to these resources. Ms. Sekoni encourages clinicians, “Collaborate with social workers, patient navigators, or organizations like CSC to ensure patients and caregivers are aware of available support.”

Notably, Medicare’s reimbursement for patient navigation services incentivizes providers to integrate supportive care into their practices.

Impact on World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day’s 2025 theme, “Close the Care Gap,” resonates deeply with this initiative’s objectives. By promoting equitable, comprehensive access to resources, Together for Supportive Cancer Care seeks to dismantle disparities and improve quality of life for millions affected by cancer. Ms. Sekoni’s call to action encapsulates this mission: “There is an urgent need to ensure that all people impacted by cancer receive equitable and comprehensive support, regardless of their insurance status, location, or background.”

Key Takeaways

For Patients and Caregivers

• Advocate for Supportive Services: Patients and caregivers should feel empowered to actively inquire about emotional, financial, and community resources
• Explore Local Resources: Visit Cancer Support Community to locate free services in your area

For Healthcare Providers

• Integrate Supportive Care: Utilize existing networks and Medicare reimbursement programs to incorporate patient navigation and holistic care
• Educate and Refer: Ensure front-line staff are equipped to guide patients and caregivers to available resources

Together for Supportive Cancer Care exemplifies how a unified, evidence-based approach can revolutionize cancer treatment and survivorship. By fostering collaboration and addressing care gaps, it offers a hopeful path forward, embodying the spirit of World Cancer Day and the ongoing fight against cancer.

About the Speaker

Daneen Sekoni is the Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Cancer Support Community. She has over a decade of experience in healthcare regulatory and policy arenas, with focuses on provider reimbursement, payment and delivery system reform, and the Affordable Care Act. She has also worked to develop international HIV/AIDS provider networks. Prior to joining Cancer Support Community, Ms. Sekoni worked in a variety of roles such as Associate Vice President of Advocacy at Healthsperien, Director of Health Care Reform Policy at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and Regulatory Affairs Manager at the American Academy of Neurology. She is passionate about breaking down barriers to care, partnering with federal and state policymakers on advancing a more representative and inclusive system, and grounding the healthcare and social system in equity for all people impacted by a cancer diagnosis.