PLYMOUTH MEETING, PA — The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), a consortium of leading cancer centers, recently announced that Taneal D. Carter, MS, MPA, manager of NCCN’s Cancer Care Equity Program, has been honored as one of the 2024 ’40 Under 40′ by the National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF). This prestigious recognition is awarded annually to 40 exceptional health leaders under 40 from minority groups who have demonstrated a profound commitment to enhancing patient outcomes and fostering healthier communities.
The NMQF ’40 Under 40′ accolade celebrates individuals who have made significant strides in addressing and reducing health disparities within their communities, despite facing systemic challenges in the healthcare sector. Carter’s recognition will be formally bestowed during the NMQF Leadership Summit on Health Disparities and Health Braintrust in April, aligning with National Minority Health Month.
Expressing gratitude for the honor, Carter underscored the critical need for dismantling systemic barriers that perpetuate health disparities. “No one should suffer reduced lifespan due to racial or ethnic disparities or other discriminatory factors,” Carter remarked, emphasizing the urgency of creating a healthcare landscape where race or ethnicity does not dictate health outcomes.
Since assuming her role in 2022, Carter has spearheaded NCCN’s Cancer Care Equity Program, orchestrating a comprehensive three-year plan and equity framework. Her efforts include advocating for pivotal legislation aimed at enhancing clinical trial diversity and improving access to care for seniors and underserved populations. Carter’s leadership extends to the Alliance for Cancer Care Equity (ACCE), collaborating with notable organizations to advance legislative support for equity initiatives.
A key component of Carter’s work involves the Health Equity Report Card (HERC) pilot programs, which provide healthcare providers and organizations with actionable measures to address discriminatory practices and biases in care delivery. Furthermore, as the staff leader for the NCCN Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Directors Forum, she fosters dialogue and collaboration among leaders from NCCN Member Institutions to promote DEI initiatives within academic cancer centers.
Crystal S. Denlinger, Chief Executive Officer of NCCN, lauded Carter’s contributions, stating, “We are very fortunate to have Taneal leading our efforts to improve equitable cancer outcomes.” Denlinger’s comments reflect NCCN’s core belief that access to high-quality cancer care should be universal, irrespective of a patient’s background or geographic location.
Carter’s recognition by the NMQF not only highlights her individual achievements but also underscores the broader importance of equity in healthcare. As the industry continues to grapple with disparities, leaders like Carter play a vital role in shaping policies and practices that ensure all patients, regardless of their race or ethnicity, receive the best possible care. Her work represents a beacon of hope for achieving a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system.
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