Community Case Forum Explores Advancements and Care Collaboration in CLL

On Sept. 28, 2026, oncology healthcare professionals convened at the Princeton Marriott at Forrestal in Princeton, NJ for a Community Case Forum focused on chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

Presented by Targeted Oncology and Healthcare Resource & Analytics, the educational event brought together care team members to review clinical data and analyze real-world case studies. Event moderators Emily Tomasulo, DO, FACP, a CLL specialist at Penn Medicine, and Swetha Hinton, APRN-CNP, a nurse practitioner at The Ohio State University James Cancer Hospital, shared expert insights on evolving treatment modalities, clinical trial administration, and the essential contributions of advanced practice providers (APPs) and nursing staff.

What Are the Primary Treatment Focuses in Relapsed/Refractory CLL?

Managing CLL in the relapsed and refractory settings remains a central topic of discussion among hematology-oncology specialists. Tomasulo, in an interview with Oncology Nursing News at the event, highlighted the importance of systematically evaluating targeted therapies alongside emerging chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell options when treating recurrent disease.

CAR T-cell therapy operates by genetically modifying a patient's T cells to recognize leukemia cells before reintroducing them into the bloodstream. Hinton noted in an interview with Oncology Nursing News that ongoing clinical trials at institutions such as The Ohio State University demonstrate significant promise for CAR T-cell platforms.

By utilizing re-engineered immune cells, these investigational trials provide patients with relapsed or refractory CLL a valuable opportunity to achieve sustained responses and long, fulfilling lives. Targeted agents and cellular immunotherapies continue to expand therapeutic choices for patients facing complex or resistant disease courses.

What Is the Role of Advanced Practice Providers in CLL Care?

APPs and oncology nurses fulfill a comprehensive, vital role across the continuum of CLL management. Tomasulo emphasized that nurses and physician assistants serve as the core backbone supporting patients on a daily operational standpoint.

Hinton outlined the broad scope of nurse practitioner responsibilities. NPs evaluate new patients, manage active treatments, assist with clinical trials, address treatment-related side effects, conduct triage, and handle daily patient communications. In clinical research, NPs act as co-investigators on clinical trials. In this capacity, they lead initial discussions regarding trial options, explain protocol requirements and lifestyle restrictions, and collaborate closely with supervising physicians and patients to guide care and maintain protocol adherence.

Why Are Community Case Forums Beneficial for Oncology Care Teams

Interactive regional forums offer meaningful educational and professional value for multidisciplinary cancer care teams. Tomasulo noted that peer collaboration, networking, and direct case discussions across physicians represent the most beneficial aspects of attending such events.

For APPs, PAs, and clinicians who have limited experience managing this specific patient population, these meetings deliver essential knowledge and practical clinical insights. By bridging specialty academic expertise and community-based practice, Community Case Forums help oncology teams optimize care coordination, discuss emerging data, and enhance daily patient management in CLL.