The Community Oncology Alliance (COA) was pleased to announce the election of Debra Patt, MD, PhD, MBA, FASCO, as the new president of the organization.
Dr. Patt, a practicing breast cancer specialist in Austin, Texas, and executive vice president at Texas Oncology, was chosen to lead COA. Alongside Dr. Patt, S. McDonald Wade III, MD, from Virginia Cancer Institute, was elected vice president, and Emily Touloukian, DO, from Coastal Cancer Center, was named secretary. All three have been dedicated COA members for many years, having served on the board of directors and key committees.
These newly elected officers will begin their one-year terms on January 1, 2025, bringing their extensive experience and commitment to furthering COA’s mission of supporting community oncology. Their leadership is expected to make a significant impact on strengthening and advancing the field of community oncology across the nation.
About Debra Patt
Debra Patt is a highly respected oncologist and breast cancer specialist based in Austin, Texas, where she serves as the executive vice president of Texas Oncology. With a strong focus on advancing breast cancer treatment and research, Dr. Patt plays a pivotal role in directing breast cancer research efforts in Austin. She is also known for her leadership in organizing and leading multidisciplinary tumor boards, which bring together experts from various specialties to provide the best possible care for breast cancer patients.
Dr. Patt has become a prominent figure in the field of healthcare informatics, working to integrate technology and data to improve patient outcomes and treatment approaches. Her extensive experience has made her a highly regarded advocate for the oncology community, particularly in the areas of clinical practice, research, and healthcare innovation.
“Community oncology is the backbone of the nation’s cancer care infrastructure, and COA is a powerful advocate for both patients and practices. I am deeply honored to be entrusted by my peers with leading COA into the future. To fully realize the promise of modern cancer care, we must ensure that patients have access to independent oncology practices in their own communities. By uniting our voices and championing what is right, we can ensure that patients and their care teams receive the resources and support they need.”
Dr. Patt holds several leadership roles within professional organizations, serving as the President of the Texas Society of Clinical Oncology, where she helps to shape the direction of cancer care in Texas. She is also the Secretary for the Community Oncology Alliance, where she contributes to policy advocacy and the promotion of community-based oncology practices. Dr. Patt’s involvement extends to being a member of the Austin Healthcare Council and the Shivers Board, organizations that focus on healthcare leadership and innovation in her region.
Throughout her career, Dr. Patt has been deeply committed to supporting the breast cancer community. She has previously served on the boards of Komen (Susan G. Komen for the Cure) and the Breast Cancer Resource Center, organizations dedicated to providing support, education, and resources to those affected by breast cancer. Her leadership and advocacy work have been integral in shaping breast cancer care and ensuring that patients have access to the latest research, treatments, and support services. Dr. Patt continues to be a driving force in the ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for breast cancer patients and advance the field of oncology as a whole.
The Community Oncology Alliance (COA)
The Community Oncology Alliance (COA) is a non-profit organization committed to advocating for community oncology practices, which are vital in providing cancer care to the majority of Americans. COA stands as the only organization that is exclusively focused on community oncology, where most cancer patients in the U.S. receive their treatment. Its primary mission is to ensure that individuals battling cancer have access to high-quality, affordable, and accessible care within their local communities.
Each year, over 1.5 million Americans are diagnosed with cancer, a disease that continues to have a profound impact on patients and families across the nation. However, advancements in cancer care, including earlier detection, more precise diagnoses, and improved treatment options, have contributed to a steady decline in cancer-related deaths. COA plays a critical role in supporting the infrastructure and policies that promote the sustainability of community oncology practices, ensuring that patients can receive the most effective care close to home. The organization’s work directly impacts the future of cancer care, striving for a healthcare system where patients are empowered and able to receive the best possible treatment and support.