NCCN praises Aetna for evidence-based approach to treat cancer

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network^® (NCCN) has praised Aetna (NYSE: AET) for its evidence-based approach to drugs used to treat cancer. The NCCN also acknowledged Aetna's commitment to providing health benefits to members enrolled in clinical trials. Aetna is the first national health plan to be recognized by the group.

"Aetna is focused on making cancer care more effective, more affordable and safer for our members," said Lonny Reisman, M.D., Aetna chief medical officer. "Personalized treatment based on accepted medical evidence is a key component of our approach to cancer care. We are pleased that our efforts are aligned to and have been recognized by the NCCN."

Under its new Recognition Program, NCCN acknowledges managed care companies that:

• Cover the routine costs of care for people enrolled in approved clinical trials, which are research studies that test how well new medical approaches work.
• Cover the appropriate off-label use of approved drugs in the treatment of cancer based upon recommendations in the NCCN Drugs & Biologics Compendium (NCCN Compendium™). Off-label use of approved drugs means the drugs have shown to be safe and effective through clinical studies for uses not included on the Food and Drug Administration label (FDA).

"We strongly support patients' opportunity to participate in clinical trials. The lack of health care coverage for the routine costs associated with clinical trials can often cause patients not to enroll," said William T. McGivney, PhD, Chief Executive Officer, NCCN. "And, there are a number of drugs with indications that are supported by evidence and the NCCN Compendium™, but are not approved by the FDA for these indications. We applaud Aetna for its leadership in making these options available to its members."