Aurora Integrated Oncology Foundation unifies resources to deliver excellent care and strategically support local cancer care organizations
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sherrie Wilson Hinshaw
Sherrie@aiofak.org
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — (Feb. 1, 2024) — A new Alaska nonprofit organization, the Aurora Integrated Oncology Foundation (AIOF), announced its launch today with a mission of improving cancer care access, services, and support for patients and families across Alaska. AIOF brings together several established oncology centers under a unified mission and organizational structure to deliver advanced cancer treatment. The foundation’s network includes Anchorage Radiation Oncology Center, Mat-Su Valley Cancer Care, Peninsula Radiation Oncology Center and Southeast Radiation Oncology Center. The foundation’s nonprofit model is a thoughtful response to the unique challenges of Alaska’s healthcare landscape. By prioritizing patient-centered care, the organization will follow a strategic, statewide model to better direct resources towards improving treatment facilities, enhancing staff capabilities, and broadening patient services. The foundation’s commitment to state-of-the-art cancer services is coupled with efforts to ease financial burdens for patients and to foster healthcare sector collaboration that will enhance cancer outcomes in Alaska.
The model also allows for the foundation to reinvest profits into community health initiatives, including preventative care education programs and collaborations with other nonprofits focused on patient and family support. “Alaskans affected by cancer are our priority, and we were determined to develop a model that would ensure they have access to high quality care long-term,” said Sherrie Wilson Hinshaw, AIOF’s president and CEO.
“With the foundation model, we can combine resources to make strategic investments in technology and services.
That means Alaskan cancer patients and their families, who already receive excellent care at AIOF centers across the state, can be assured that they will continue to receive exceptional cancer care services comparable to, or even better than, those available in the Lower 48.” The AIOF network of oncology centers has made significant strides in cancer care in Alaska. Since opening, the network of centers across Alaska has treated over 14,000 patients, with a team of 60 healthcare professionals delivering around 20,000 radiation therapy treatments annually. The foundation’s inclusive approach ensures that all Alaskans have access to care regardless of their insurance status.
“Through AIOF, we are making a meaningful difference in the lives of Alaskans and their families facing cancer,” said AIOF board member Dr. Donna Galbreath. “Our commitment extends beyond treatment to nurturing a supportive community environment, setting a precedent in how cancer care is delivered.” AIOF’s sustainable model aims to ensure the long-term viability of quality oncology care in the state.
Governed by a board of directors, the foundation is focused upon creating impactful philanthropic avenues to benefit Alaskan cancer patients and their families. This includes maintaining consistency in care and ensuring transparent communication during all phases of the foundation’s development and operation. In 2024, AIOF plans to contribute $500,000 to support workforce development programs, address patient barriers to care and support non-profit organizations in the care community like the American Cancer Society (ACS) of Alaska. Every year ACS provides free rides, flights and lodging to more than 600 Alaskan cancer patients and their families. “Cancer treatment is scary and stressful, not only for the patient, but also for their family,” said Alaska ACS director Charissa Habeger. “We’re thrilled that Aurora Integrated Oncology Foundation will continue to provide care for Alaskan cancer patients while contributing additional funding to the local nonprofit community and we are grateful for their ongoing partnership in improving the lives of cancer patients in our state.” For additional information about AIOF and its programs, please visit the foundation’s website here.
ABOUT AURORA INTEGRATED ONCOLOGY FOUNDATION
The Aurora Integrated Oncology Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization revolutionizing cancer care in Alaska. Unifying Anchorage Radiation Oncology Center, Mat-Su Valley Cancer Care, Peninsula Radiation Oncology Center and Southeast Radiation Oncology Center, AIOF focuses on accessible, advanced treatment and comprehensive support for patients and families. With a commitment to patient- centered care, AIOF emphasizes reinvestment in community health initiatives and state-of-the-art services, operating under a sustainable model that covers all 740,000 residents of Alaska, regardless of their insurance status. For more information, visit AOIF’s website.