Strengthening Collaborative Care Pathways for CAR T-Cell Therapy in the Midwest-CAR T Collaborative Care Webinar

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This webinar, part of ACCC’s regional series on strengthening collaborative care pathways for CAR T-cell therapy, focused on improving access, referral timing, and post-treatment care coordination between authorized CAR T centers and community oncology practices.<br /><br />Faculty reviewed the rapid evolution of CAR T, from early CD19 targeting to newer products and indications, and emphasized that despite major advances, access remains limited: only about one in five eligible patients receives CAR T. Key barriers include caregiver requirements, travel distance, cost, insurance delays, and disease progression during the “brain-to-vein” interval.<br /><br />Speakers stressed that early referral is essential—especially for relapsed/refractory large B-cell lymphoma—and encouraged community teams to use trigger lists, direct phone communication, and shared checklists. They also outlined how community oncologists can help with pre-apheresis workup, bridging therapy, monitoring, and earlier return home after infusion.<br /><br />The post-CAR T period was highlighted as a shared responsibility, with attention to CRS, ICANS, cytopenias, infections, hypogammaglobulinemia, IVIG needs, and revaccination. Recent REMS changes and growing experience with bispecific antibodies may support safer, earlier transition back to community care.<br /><br />Case examples illustrated successful referral and co-management, reinforcing the central message: CAR T care works best when community and specialty teams function as one coordinated team.

Keywords

CAR T-cell therapy

collaborative care pathways

community oncology

referral timing

post-treatment care coordination

large B-cell lymphoma

cytokine release syndrome

immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome

bridging therapy