A permanent dent in a big problem: Omico’s CEO Professor Thomas and Oncologist A/Professor Underhill

Pharma News: Professor David Thomas, CEO of Omico, and Associate Professor Craig Underhill, Medical Oncologist, Albury-Wodonga, joined Health industry Hub to engage in a comprehensive discussion on Australia’s largest cancer genomics program, PrOSPeCT, and the mission of enhanced cancer outcomes.

Professor Thomas elaborated on the vision of PrOSPeCT, highlighting the unique funding model born out of public-private partnerships.

“As the evidence for benefits rises in the experience of individual clinicians, I’ve no doubt that they will come on board. It’s a fundamental cultural change. We’ve had referrals from 700 out of the 800 oncologists in this country, which speaks to the fact that they’re aware and a lot of them are making it a standard of care. We hope that this trend continues,” explained Professor Thomas.

Associate Professor Underhill underscored the crucial role of PrOSPeCT in addressing disparities in cancer outcomes between urban and regional Victoria, aligning with his passion for driving equitable access to healthcare. He shared first-hand insights into the challenges facing underserved communities in cancer care and tangible benefits of participating in PrOSPeCT.

“The fantastic thing about PrOSPeCT is it’s working in that networked way, bringing regional sites into the fold,” stated Associate Professor Underhill.

Professor Thomas further elaborated on the synergies between PrOSPeCT and the newly established Precision Care Clinic at Prince of Wales Hospital, while drawing inspiration from international models of cancer genomics programs including the success of the Dutch model.

Concluding the discussion, Professor Thomas outlined key milestones for PrOSPeCT in the short-term, signalling an ongoing commitment to driving enhanced outcomes in cancer care and oncology research.

“I’d like to leave a permanent dent in a big problem,” said Professor Thomas.

In reimagining healthcare across the entire patient journey, Health Industry Hub^TM is the only one-stop-hub uniting the diversity of the Pharma, MedTech, Diagnostics & Biotech sectors to inspire meaningful change.

The Health Industry Hub^TM content is copyright protected. Access is available under individual user licenses. Please click here to subscribe and visit T&Cs here.