The Precision Oncology Program for Cancer of the Prostate (POPCaP) Network: A Veterans Affairs/Prostate Cancer Foundation Collaboration

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The promise of precision oncology only can be realized when genetic alterations are identified that can be lever-aged to improve response and minimize toxicity. Identifying those alterations as efficiently as possible and then giving patients access to targeted therapy and clinical study requires a comprehensive strategy across health care systems. OBSERVATIONS: The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Prostate Cancer Foundation have established a network of VA centers to help develop best practices for precision oncology for the treatment of veterans with advanced prostate cancer. This article describes the genesis and structure of this network and its potential for contributing to care and research in the VA and the health care system as a whole. CONCLUSIONS: The Precision Oncology Program for Cancer of the Prostate network and its partnership with VA clinical and research efforts is anticipated to provide important insights into barriers and solutions to the implementation of precision oncology for prostate cancer across the VA.