News/Blog

MACON & WARNER ROBINS, GA – Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) is proud to announce its successful re-certification as an ASCO Certified™ practice, a prestigious national recognition from the Association for Clinical Oncology (ASCO) that reflects the practice’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered cancer care.

ASCO Certified is a rigorous certification program based on a single set of comprehensive, evidence-based Oncology Medical Home (OMH) standards developed by ASCO in partnership with the Community Oncology Alliance (COA). CGCC was first awarded this distinction in 2022 and has now successfully met all requirements to maintain its certification, demonstrating sustained excellence in quality, safety, and care delivery.

“These standards are not easy to achieve or maintain, and this re-certification is a testament to the extraordinary dedication of our physicians, nurses, and entire care team,” said Jessi Easterwood, Regional Director of Operations for Central Georgia Cancer Care. “We are deeply committed to providing nationally recognized cancer care right here in our community, so patients don’t have to travel far from home to receive the highest level of treatment and support.”

ASCO Certified standards focus on seven key domains of cancer care, including patient engagement, access to care, evidence-based medicine, comprehensive team-based care, quality improvement, goals-of-care and palliative discussions, and antineoplastic therapy safety. To achieve re-certification, practices must demonstrate ongoing compliance with all care delivery and safety standards through continuous quality assessment and improvement.

Central Georgia Cancer Care will continue to work closely with ASCO Certification Program surveyors to review quality improvement initiatives, patient satisfaction surveys, oncology treatment pathway utilization, and key quality measures such as advance care planning, depression screening, pain assessment, and treatment decisions near end of life—ensuring care remains aligned with national best practices.

“The ASCO Certified program is a vital tool for practices dedicated to providing the best quality cancer care,” said Clifford A. Hudis, MD, FACP, FASCO, Chief Executive Officer of the Association for Clinical Oncology. “Focusing on patients, it supports the provision of coordinated and evidence-based care, and we are pleased to see practices like Central Georgia Cancer Care continue to embrace and uphold these standards.”

ASCO Certified empowers oncology practices by providing an objective measure of high-quality cancer care, reducing administrative burden, and demonstrating to payers and stakeholders that evidence-based, patient-centered care leads to better outcomes and efficiencies.

About Central Georgia Cancer Care: Since 1977, Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) has provided compassionate, high-quality care for cancer and blood disorder patients across Central and South Georgia. With locations in Macon and Warner Robins, CGCC is recognized nationally for its commitment to innovation, clinical excellence, and patient-centered care. CGCC’s board-certified physicians and multidisciplinary care teams deliver advanced treatment close to home—supporting patients and families at every step of their cancer journey. Learn more at centralgacancercare.com.

Macon, GA — Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC), a partner practice of American Oncology Network (AON), is proud to announce the opening of its new state-of-the-art PET/CT Imaging Building, located behind the Macon Clinic at 5430 Bowman Road. The addition represents another milestone in CGCC’s continued commitment to providing comprehensive, compassionate cancer care in one convenient location.

Designed to enhance the patient experience and streamline care, the new facility offers advanced imaging technology in a private, patient-focused setting — allowing patients to complete imaging and consultations all in one visit. The new PET/CT Imaging Building also features:

• A brand-new PET/CT machine equipped with the latest technology for precise and efficient imaging
• Private intake rooms for each patient (three total), ensuring privacy and comfort throughout the process
• Convenient on-site parking and direct access to patients’ oncologists and hematologists in the adjacent clinic
• A non-hospital environment, reducing exposure risks for immunocompromised patients and providing a quieter, more personal care experience
• Quicker, more flexible scheduling and faster scan turnaround times
• Internal radiology review, ensuring consistency with one dedicated radiologist interpreting all scans
• Cost savings and improved coordination of care through CGCC’s integrated oncology model

“This new PET/CT Imaging Building reflects our ongoing commitment to patient-centered care,” said Bradley T. Sumrall, M.D., Managing Partner and Physician at Central Georgia Cancer Care. “Having imaging services right next door to our clinic means we can review results more quickly, collaborate seamlessly, and make timely decisions that directly impact patient outcomes — all while offering a more comfortable and convenient experience.”

The PET/CT Imaging Building further enhances the comprehensive range of services offered at CGCC, which opened its new main clinic earlier in the year. Together, these facilities position Central Georgia Cancer Care as a leader in regional oncology care — offering the latest advancements in cancer diagnosis and treatment under one roof.

ABOUT CENTRAL GEORGIA CANCER CARE: Since 1977, Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) has provided compassionate, high-quality care for patients with cancer and blood disorders throughout Central and South Georgia. As one of the few Georgia practices selected for the national Oncology Care Model, CGCC is also the only oncology center in the state to hold both QOPI® Certification and ASCO’s Patient-Centered Cancer Care Certification. Their board-certified physicians and care team provide innovative treatment close to home — supporting patients’ health and well-being at every step.

ABOUT AMERICAN ONCOLOGY NETWORK: American Oncology Network (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success and viability of community oncology and other specialties. Founded in 2018, AON’s rapidly expanding network represents more than 290 providers practicing across 21 states. AON pioneers innovative healthcare solutions through its physician-led model, fostering value-based care that improves patient outcomes while reducing costs and expanding access to quality care. AON equips its network physicians with the tools they need to thrive independently while providing comprehensive support, integrated revenue-diversifying ancillary services, and practice management expertise, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest standard of care for every patient. AON is committed to promoting health equity by addressing disparities in cancer care and ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need to achieve optimal health outcomes. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, AON is shaping the future of community oncology. For more information, please visit AONcology.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube.

MACON, GA – Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) Foundation is proud to announce a $7,500 donation to Piedmont Macon Medical Center Oncology Services to support their robust Cancer Wellness offerings that go beyond clinical treatment and into whole-person healing. This contribution will directly benefit free support programs for local cancer patients and their families, including nurse navigation, nutrition counseling, creative arts healing, grief support groups, genetic testing, and more.

The donation was presented during a special check ceremony at CGCC, where Dr. Bradley Sumrall, Andrea Bennett, and Jessi Easterwood were joined by thePiedmont Macon Medical team. Together, they celebrated the growing partnership between two organizations that are both committed to improving the quality of life for patients in Central Georgia.

“As oncology providers, we know that healing involves more than just medicine—it takes emotional support, community, and access to resources that meet the full spectrum of a patient’s needs,” said Jessi Easterwood, Regional Director of Operations for Central Georgia Cancer Care. “The CGCC Foundation is honored to support Piedmont Macon Medical’s holistic and heartfelt approach to care. We believe that wellness is an essential part of the cancer journey, and partnerships like this help ensure no patient walks that journey alone.”

“We are deeply grateful for this generous donation to support our cancer wellness programs at Piedmont Macon,” said Stephen J. Daugherty, CEO of Piedmont Macon Medical Center and Piedmont Macon North Hospital. “Partnerships like this make it possible to provide the resources and support to help patients and their families better navigate their cancer journeys.”

Piedmont Macon Medical’s Cancer Wellness programs, offered at no cost to participants, include the Stronger Together Support Group, Helping Hands Grief Support Group, Oncology Nutrition Classes, Lymphedema Therapy, Nurse Navigation Services, Creative Arts Healing Classes, and grant assistance for qualifying patients

This donation is part of CGCC Foundation’s ongoing mission to invest in programs and partnerships that enhance access, support survivorship, and elevate the overall well-being of those impacted by cancer in the region.

About Central Georgia Cancer Care Foundation: The CGCC Foundation works to ease the financial stress of cancer care for patients in Central Georgia. With a vision to empower the best health outcomes, its mission is to reduce the burden of treatment by helping with copays, prescription medications, and other medical expenses. Through the generosity of donors—“Friend Finders”—the Foundation touches the lives of patients, their medical teams, and their families by offering hope and tangible support when it matters most.

About Central Georgia Cancer Care: Since 1977, Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) has provided compassionate, high-quality care for cancer and blood disorder patients in Central and South Georgia. As one of the few Georgia practices selected for the national Oncology Care Model, CGCC is also the only oncology center in the state with both QOPI® Certification and ASCO's Patient-Centered Cancer Care Certification. Their board-certified physicians and care team ensure patients receive innovative treatment close to home, supporting their overall well-being. Learn more at centralgacancercare.com.

MACON, GA, June 18, 2025 – Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC), a partner practice of American Oncology Network (AON), is proud to announce the promotion of Jessi Easterwood, Pharm.D., to regional director of operations. Easterwood, who has served CGCC since 2020, has been a pivotal leader during the practice’s transition to American Oncology Management Company, LLC and American Oncology Partners, P.A. in April 2024.

In her new role, she will oversee operations for both the Macon and Warner Robins clinics and serve as a liaison and resource for the practice through her work with AON. Her leadership will be instrumental in driving strategic initiatives and supporting day-to-day functions across the region and company network.

This leadership transition comes as longtime CEO Kevin Svoboda prepares for his upcoming retirement. Svoboda has led CGCC with integrity and compassion, and his legacy is reflected in the practice’s growth, modernization, and unwavering commitment to patient-centered care.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Kevin for his years of dedicated leadership and unwavering commitment to the mission of Central Georgia Cancer Care—his impact on our team, patients, and community will be felt for years to come,” said Easterwood. “I am honored and humbled to take on this new role and continue building on the strong foundation Kevin helped establish.”

Easterwood brings more than a decade of experience in pharmacy and clinical operations. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) from Mercer University College of Pharmacy and is a member of the Community Oncology Alliance and the American Society of Clinical Oncology, where she began serving on the Steering Group Committee this June. Prior to joining CGCC, she held pharmacy leadership roles with Publix and has since been instrumental in developing CGCC’s quality and pharmacy programs.

As part of the transition, Easterwood will work closely with Svoboda, AON, and the CGCC leadership team to ensure a smooth handoff of responsibilities. This announcement follows the recent opening of CGCC’s new state-of-the-art Macon clinic at 5430 Bowman Road, further underscoring the practice’s commitment to advancing cancer care across Central Georgia.

CGCC is a partner of American Oncology Network, one of the nation’s fastest-growing community-based oncology networks. Through this partnership, American Oncology Network makes additional patient care and services available, such as access to the in-house specialty pharmacy with home delivery of certain medications, clinical trials, and a host of other benefits that empower local practices to deliver high-quality, value-based care in their communities.

“We are proud to support practices like Central Georgia Cancer Care that are deeply committed to putting patients first,” said Todd Schonherz, AON’s chief executive officer. “Kevin has played a crucial role in navigating CGCC through its partnership with AON and has worked tirelessly to ensure a seamless transition—his steady hand and collaborative spirit have made all the difference. We are confident Jessi will continue that tradition of excellence.”

“Jessi’s operational knowledge, clinical background and focus on quality make her an ideal fit for this position,” said Tena Messer, AON’s executive vice president of practice operations. “We are excited to see her continue to elevate care and support for both CGCC locations and the communities they serve.”

Dr. Bradley Sumrall, CGCC’s chief medical officer, also praised the transition. “Kevin has been a steady and compassionate leader for many years, and we are grateful for his service. Jessi has earned the trust of our team through her commitment, competence, and vision, and we are excited for the future under her operational leadership.”

About Central Georgia Cancer Care:

Since 1977, Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) has provided compassionate, high-quality care for cancer and blood disorder patients in Central and South Georgia. As one of the few Georgia practices selected for the national Oncology Care Model, CGCC is also the only oncology center in the state with both QOPI® Certification and ASCO® Patient-Centered Cancer Care Certification. CGCC’s board-certified physicians and care team ensure patients receive innovative treatment close to home, supporting their overall well-being. Learn more at centralgacancercare.com.

About American Oncology Network

American Oncology Network (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders partnering to ensure the long-term success and viability of community oncology and other specialties. Founded in 2018, AON’s rapidly expanding network represents more than 290 providers practicing across 21 states. AON pioneers innovative healthcare solutions through its physician-led model, fostering value-based care that improves patient outcomes while reducing costs and expanding access to quality care. AON equips its network physicians with the tools they need to thrive independently while providing comprehensive support, integrated revenue-diversifying ancillary services, and practice management expertise, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest standard of care for every patient. AON is committed to promoting health equity by addressing disparities in cancer care and ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need to achieve optimal health outcomes. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, AON is shaping the future of community oncology. For more information, please visit AONcology.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube.

CGCC Media Contact:
Shannon Phillips
Abshire Public Relations
912.695.7881
pr@abshirepr.com

AON Media Contact:
Karen Riley Sawyer
American Oncology Network
Karen.Sawyer@AONcology.com

About Central Georgia Cancer Care:

Since 1977, Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) has provided compassionate, high-quality care for

cancer and blood disorder patients in Central and South Georgia. As one of the few Georgia practices

selected for the national Oncology Care Model, CGCC is also the only oncology center in the state with

both QOPI® Certification and ASCO’s Patient-Centered Cancer Care Certification. Their board-certified physicians and care team ensure patients receive innovative treatment close to home, supporting their overall well-being. Learn more at centralgacancercare.com.

About American Oncology Network

American Oncology Network (AON) is an alliance of physicians and seasoned healthcare leaders

partnering to ensure the long-term success and viability of community oncology and other specialties.

Founded in 2018, AON’s rapidly expanding network represents more than 290 providers practicing

across 21 states. AON pioneers innovative healthcare solutions through its physician-led model,

fostering value-based care that improves patient outcomes while reducing costs and expanding access

to quality care. AON equips its network physicians with the tools they need to thrive independently

while providing comprehensive support, integrated revenue-diversifying ancillary services, and practice management expertise, enabling physicians to focus on what matters most – providing the highest standard of care for every patient. AON is committed to promoting health equity by addressing disparities in cancer care and ensuring that all patients have access to the care they need to achieve optimal health outcomes. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, AON is shaping the future of community oncology. For more information, please visit AONcology.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube.

Macon, GA–Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) is proud to announce the addition of Mackenzie Sanders as its new Clinical Research Coordinator. A graduate of Mercer University with a degree in neuroscience, Mackenzie brings valuable experience from prior clinical research in endocrinology and cardiology. She joined the team in May 2025, and her work will be instrumental in advancing CGCC’s mission to bring cutting-edge cancer care to patients in Central Georgia.

At Central Georgia Cancer Care, patients have access to innovative cancer treatments through clinical trials offered locally. With over 30 years of leadership in clinical research, CGCC is committed to providing tomorrow’s therapies today. Mackenzie’s role will focus on identifying eligible patients and connecting them with clinical trials that may benefit their specific diagnosis. Whether a study is offered at CGCC or through a research affiliate, this ensures patients receive the most advanced, personalized care possible—right here in their own community.

“We’re thrilled to have Mackenzie join our team,” said Jessie Easterwood, Regional Director of Operations of CGCC. “Her experience and dedication to patient-centered research strengthen our ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for cancer patients in our region.”

This addition reflects Central Georgia Cancer Care’s unwavering dedication to innovation and advancing cancer care through leading-edge research and clinical trials. To learn more about this commitment, visit centralgacancercare.com/about.

About Central Georgia Cancer Care:

Since 1977, Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) has provided compassionate, high-quality care for cancer and blood disorder patients in Central and South Georgia. As one of the few Georgia practices selected for the national Oncology Care Model, CGCC is also the only oncology center in the state with both QOPI® Certification and ASCO’s Patient-Centered Cancer Care Certification. Their board-certified physicians and care team ensure patients receive innovative treatment close to home, supporting their overall well-being. Learn more at centralgacancercare.com.

Macon, GA-As of this morning, Monday, April 28, 2025, Central Georgia Cancer Care officially relocates its Macon clinic to a new, state-of-the-art facility at 5430 Bowman Road, Macon, GA. This move marks an exciting milestone in the organization’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality cancer care in a modern, patient-centered environment.

The new clinic spans 16,735 square feet and includes a host of enhanced features such as:

• 16 exam rooms
• A spacious chemotherapy treatment room with 30 chairs
• UPS797/800 compliant pharmacy
• Comprehensive on-site lab services
• A single-level design for easier access
• Convenient and closer patient drop-off area
• Improved access from I-75

This relocation not only expands Central Georgia Cancer Care’s capacity to serve its growing patient base but also creates a more comfortable and efficient space for both patients and staff.

With a total investment of $5.6 million, including the purchase and renovation of the building, this move represents a significant commitment to enhancing oncology care. The property is owned and developed by Optimal Outcomes, in collaboration with Central Georgia Cancer Care and American Oncology Network.

“We’re thrilled to officially open our new Macon clinic doors, marking this significant relocation,” said Kevin J. Svoboda, CEO of Central Georgia Cancer Care. “This state-of-the-art facility is an essential part of our mission to provide the best cancer care to our community, and we are grateful for the continued support from our patients and partners.”

Central Georgia Cancer Care will soon host an official ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration to mark the completion of the move. More details will be shared soon.

About Central Georgia Cancer Care:

Since 1977, Central Georgia Cancer Care (CGCC) has provided compassionate, high-quality care for cancer and blood disorder patients in Central and South Georgia. As one of the few Georgia practices selected for the national Oncology Care Model, CGCC is also the only oncology center in the state with both QOPI® Certification and ASCO’s Patient-Centered Cancer Care Certification. Their board-certified physicians and care team ensure patients receive innovative treatment close to home, supporting their overall well-being. Learn more at centralgacancercare.com.

MACON, GA — Central Georgia Cancer Care, the only oncology practice in the state with both QOPI® and ASCO accolades, recently launched a new Volunteer Program. The mission is to provide compassionate, supportive, and empathetic assistance to cancer patients, their families, and the dedicated medical staff.

“You never planned for cancer, and now it’s all you think about. At CGCC, we know our staff provides world-renowned care to all patients, but we wanted to provide an added layer of high-quality hospitality,” says Kevin Svoboda, Central Georgia Cancer Care Chief Executive Officer. “Appointments can include many questions and uneasiness, but seeing a friendly face can help make all the difference in the world. That’s why we created this new Volunteer Program; we want to not only ease our patients’ minds but also give our community an opportunity to get involved.”

Patient care ambassadors are community volunteers who will serve as an extension of our care team. Central Georgia Cancer Care is currently accepting applications for those interested in volunteering as patient care ambassadors. Areas in which you can volunteer include patient support, administrative assistance, fundraising and other events. Some of the non-clinical activities include: greeting patients; escorting patients to their rooms; offering blankets, snacks, and drinks to those in the infusion suite; providing emotional support and conversation with willing patients; offering reading materials or headphones for the movie tablets during treatment appointments; and helping with special events.

Eligible applicants must fill out an application online at https://centralgacancercare.com/central-georgia-cancer-care-volunteer-program/. You must be 18 or older to apply, and agreeable to a criminal background check. There will be an interview and training process for all patient care ambassadors.

The CGCC care team has worked diligently to design this new program and they are excited for its launch! For questions or additional details, call the practice directly, at (478) 743-7068, or visit www.centralgacancercare.com.

Cancer care is costly. Even with insurance, patients pay out-of-pocket costs such as premiums and co-pays for visits and prescriptions. Patients who miss work because of treatment and recovery may have trouble paying for food, utilities, rent and childcare.

 

The National Cancer Institute estimated the average cost of medical care and drugs exceeds $42,000 in the year following a cancer diagnosis. Nationwide, about 1 in 5 indebted adults who have had cancer or have a family member with the disease say they owe $10,000 or more, according to a recent Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) poll. About two-thirds of adults with health care debt from cancer treatments have cut spending on food, clothing, or other household basics, according to the KFF poll. One quarter have declared bankruptcy or lost their home to eviction or foreclosure.

These hardships, known as Financial Toxicity, are increasingly recognized as a side effect of healthcare in the United States. Dealing with a cancer diagnosis is hard enough. At Central Georgia Cancer Care, we want to make sure that all our patients can focus on getting well. Many factors hinder health equity, including genetics, language barriers and health behavior, but probably the most important determinant is poverty, which can result in barriers to quality care, inadequate access to healthy foods, limited personal support systems and exposure to violence and poor environmental living and working conditions.

Most of our patients come from impoverished counties. At 10.8 percent, Houston County has a poverty rate close to the national average of 11.4 percent. Bibb County’s poverty rate, however, is nearly triple the national average at 28 percent and Peach County’s is nearly double at 19.2 percent. The 2020 Census recorded that Bibb County had the eighth highest poverty rate in all of Georgia.

 

The financial burden of cancer care often extends beyond the cancer patient to the family members or friends who become their caregivers. These caregivers often miss work to attend treatments or care for their loved ones further reducing the income-generating possibilities to cover care.

With health equity in mind, Central Georgia Cancer Care has developed a multi-layer approach to ensure best possible outcomes for all our patients. First, we emphasize awareness of conscious and unconscious biases and how to make adjustments as necessary. Next, we assess any potential barriers that may affect a patient’s care. We also conduct a financial analysis which determines which financial aid programs may benefit a patient.

At Central Georgia, we have two types of assistance. Through the Patient Assistance Program, CGCC, P.C. employees help screen patients, prepare grant requests, and search for all available funding from healthcare foundations or pharmaceutical companies to provide free drugs, copay cards, coinsurance, and more. From December of 2021 to February 2023 our patients received $32.24 million in free drugs and $7.53 million in grants used for copays, insurance premiums and other treatments.

 

In 2018, we recognized that our patients needed additional support, so we started the Central Georgia Cancer Foundation to help our low-income patients pay for other necessities. Two employees of CGCC, P.C. donate their time to run the nonprofit. The most requested grants are for groceries, gas, utilities (gas, power, water), mortgage/rent and childcare. Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis based on the request and need of the patient. To apply for funds, patients must be a CGCC patient who is actively receiving infusion therapy and must prove that their combined household income is at or below 150 percent of the U.S. Federal Poverty Level.

 

Patients can receive up to $500/annually from the CGCC Foundation. Funds are distributed in the form of gift cards or paid directly to the vendor/organization to which payment is due. The Foundation is currently assisting 568 patients and has 772 assistance applications. We raise money for the Foundation through a Pharmaceutical Expo Fundraisers held two or three times a year, Blue Jean Fridays for our staff and donations to the practice. In 2020 and 2021, we raised about $30,000. Organizations and individuals can donate through our website, www.centralgacancercare.com. We usually accept cash donations, but we can also accept donations of vehicles, property, or publicly traded securities.

The Foundation is a continuation of Central Georgia Cancer Care’s 40-plus year history of providing services to underserved cancer patients in the Macon and Warner Robins communities. For over 30 years, CGCC, P.C. donated time each week in the WT Anderson clinic serving cancer patients. As we continue to receive more donations, we hope to expand assistance to more cancer patients in our region, so no one ever has to choose between the medicine they need and other necessities such as food, clothing and shelter.