Angela Vickroy and Jordan Smith explore how the evolving CAR T-cell treatment landscape is changing when patients can be considered for therapy. They discuss the importance of early referral and evaluating the whole patient, including functional status, organ function, and available caregiver support, while addressing common misconceptions surrounding age and prior stem cell transplant. The conversation also highlights the critical role of patient education in setting expectations for the CAR T-cell process, potential adverse events, and ongoing supportive care. Finally, they discuss collaboration between CAR T-cell centers and community providers to help ensure continuity of care during both the acute and long-term follow-up periods.
Topics covered:
- Identifying and referring appropriate patients for CAR T-cell therapy earlier
- Addressing misconceptions about age, prior transplant, and patient eligibility
- Patient education, supportive care, and long-term follow-up after CAR T-cell therapy
