APAO 2026: Oncology PAs Convene for 29th Annual Symposium

Experts including physician associates (PAs), nurse practitioners (NPs), pharmacists, and physicians, gathered at the New York Marriott Marquis from August 13 to 16, 2026, for the 29th Annual Oncology Symposium for the Healthcare Provider. Presented by the Association of PAs in Oncology (APAO), the four-day conference brought together over 200 healthcare professionals with the goal of translating clinical vision into reality. The event focused on creating a dedicated environment for clinical learning, networking, and professional development.

Fostering a Culture of Learning

Cory Edgar, DMSc, PA-C, president of the APAO, in an on-site interview with Oncology Nursing News, outlined the meeting’s core mission. Edgar explained that the symposium serves as a vital platform for presenting new clinical trial data and oncology updates.

However, he emphasized that didactic education is only one component of the program. "We're also really big on networking, creating some community and connection in the oncology space," Edgar stated, noting that professional development remains a top priority for all attendees.

The Front-Facing Role of APPs

Jennifer Fisher, PA-C, of NYU Langone Health, who delivered a concurrent session on brain metastases at the symposium, discussed the pivotal role APPs hold in direct patient care in an interview. Fisher emphasized that APPs and nurses are critical, front-facing elements of the healthcare system. While physicians make final therapeutic decisions, PAs and NPs manage the daily, practical realities of cancer therapy.

According to Fisher, educational sessions designed specifically for APPs are invaluable because they provide deep clinical insights into diverse disease processes. This training helps APPs manage adverse events, conduct patient education, and coordinate follow-up care.

"We become that point person on the oncology team for our patients," Fisher remarked, underscoring how APPs are successfully defining their unique space on the multidisciplinary cancer care team.

Advancing the Profession Through Collaboration

Colleen Tetzlaff, MHS, PA-C, of Fox Chase Cancer Center, who was honored as the 2026 APAO Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, discussed the national impact of the annual gathering. Tetzlaff highlighted that the symposium successfully unites oncology PAs from across the United States to share knowledge and best practices.

Rather than relying on one-way lectures, Tetzlaff praised the integration of panel and roundtable discussions. She noted that these collaborative formats allow attendees to engage directly with clinical leadership, hear diverse perspectives, and work together to advance the PA profession nationally. By combining peer networking with high-level science, the symposium ensures APPs return to their practices fully equipped to optimize patient care.