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

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This ACCC webinar focused on improving access to CAR T-cell therapy through earlier referral, stronger coordination between community oncology practices and CAR T centers, and better post-treatment local management. Speakers emphasized that CAR T can be a potentially curative option for eligible patients, but use has plateaued because of barriers such as long travel distance, caregiver needs, insurance prior authorization, housing, and limited local infrastructure.<br /><br />Dr. Awan reviewed survey findings showing that travel, cost, caregiver support, and insurance barriers are common. He stressed the importance of “brain-to-vein time” — getting patients referred early so evaluation, authorization, bridging therapy, and manufacturing can happen without delay. He also outlined the CAR T process, including cell collection, manufacturing, lymphodepleting chemotherapy, infusion, and close monitoring.<br /><br />Liffy Sherian discussed how community teams can safely support patients after CAR T, covering acute and late toxicities such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS), ICANS, infections, cytopenias, hypogammaglobulinemia, neurologic effects, and psychosocial distress. She highlighted the value of clear handoffs, prophylactic medications, IVIG, revaccination planning, and telehealth/remote monitoring tools.<br /><br />A case discussion illustrated how early CAR T referral can improve outcomes for a patient with relapsed DLBCL. The patient received bridging therapy, underwent CAR T, experienced manageable CRS and ICANS, achieved complete metabolic response, and later returned to the community oncologist for long-term surveillance and supportive care.<br /><br />The session concluded with a strong message: refer early, collaborate closely, and use available ATC resources to reduce barriers and expand patient access to CAR T therapy.

Keywords

CAR T-cell therapy

earlier referral

community oncology

CAR T centers

brain-to-vein time

cytokine release syndrome

ICANS

relapsed DLBCL

post-treatment management

patient access barriers