The Carolina Blood and Cancer Care Associates (CBCCA) is a community oncology practice that has redefined what it means to care for patients. Under the leadership of In Practice Editor-in-Chief Kashyap Patel, MD, CBCCA goes beyond the traditional approach to oncology care by addressing the socioeconomic challenges faced by their patients. Dr Patel’s vision for holistic, patient-centered care has not only set new standards in medical practice but also inspired the creation of the No One Left Alone (NOLA) Foundation, a transformative initiative addressing healthcare inequities.
A Vision for Holistic Care
At CBCCA, the philosophy extends far beyond treating cancer. “Rather than focusing solely on the diagnosis, we need to see the patient as a whole person whose health is influenced by nonmedical factors like food, shelter, and transportation,” says Dr Patel. This ethos has fueled the practice’s commitment to tackling cancer health disparities and supporting underserved communities across South Carolina.
Through the NOLA Foundation, CBCCA has taken a proactive role in ensuring that patients have access to not just cutting-edge medical treatments but also critical resources such as housing, food, and financial support. “We need more than just policy to address the deep inequities in healthcare, especially in cancer care,” Dr Patel adds. “Community practices must take the lead and confront these challenges head-on to truly make a difference.”
The Birth of the NOLA Foundation
Founded 5 years ago, the NOLA Foundation represents a bold step toward equity in healthcare. During its pilot phase in 2021, NOLA partnered with financial assistance foundations, pharmaceutical companies, local nonprofits, congressional offices, and state health departments to address the needs of underserved patients in 5 South Carolina counties—York, Chester, Kershaw, Chesterfield, and Lancaster.
The foundation’s efforts have been nothing short of life-changing. Patients have received assistance with utility bills, gym memberships, gas cards, transportation, and access to benefits like Medicaid. These interventions have not only alleviated immediate burdens but also improved long-term health outcomes.
Overcoming Barriers to Holistic Care
One of the most innovative aspects of CBCCA’s approach is its focus on data collection and collaboration. By dedicating 2.5 full-time staff members to understanding the socioeconomic factors affecting patients, the practice has developed tailored solutions to complex problems. Further, a full-time pharmacist was added to the team to streamline financial navigation and assistance.
“We’ve shown that addressing a patient’s basic needs — whether it’s food, transportation, or housing — can significantly improve their health outcomes.”
“We’ve shown that addressing a patient’s basic needs—whether it’s food, transportation, or housing—can significantly improve their health outcomes,” says Dr Patel.
Empowering Community Oncology Practices Nationwide
Dr Patel and CBCCA are committed to supporting other community-based practices in adopting holistic, patient-centered care models. To achieve this, they have developed comprehensive “playbooks” and standard operating procedures designed to guide practices through improving access to care, addressing social determinants of health, and navigating new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services reimbursement codes. Many of these resources will be featured and discussed in In Practice, offering actionable insights and proven strategies to help physicians transform their practices. “Our goal is to empower other doctors with the tools and frameworks they need to deliver truly impactful care and walk alongside their patients,” Dr Patel explains.
A Call to Action
For Dr Patel, the work of NOLA and CBCCA is deeply personal. “We are part of this country’s DNA,” he says. “We must stand up for the underserved and give back to the communities we serve.”
Through their groundbreaking work, CBCCA and the NOLA Foundation are proving that medicine is not just about treating diseases—it’s about improving lives. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when passion and purpose come together.
Spotlight on the NOLA Team
The NOLA Foundation was founded by a dedicated team of leaders, including:
- Dr Kashyap Patel, CEO, CBCCA
- Dr Niyati Nathwani, President of NOLA and Associate Director of Research at CBCCA
- Dr Emily Touloukian, President and CEO of Coastal Cancer Center
- Holly Pisarik, Senior Vice President of Advocacy and Policy Counsel at South Caroline Medical Association
- Ashima Kodali, Alternate Executive Director of NOLA and a passionate advocate for equitable healthcare
About the Author
Kristin Siyahian is VP, Branded Channels, at Amplity and a seasoned healthcare communications professional specializing in oncology education and patient-centered content.
