A recent survey reveals a gap between community oncologists’ belief in AI’s potential and its actual use in practice. While 83% of respondents see artificial intelligence as a way to improve cancer care access, only 19% use AI-powered predictive models. This disparity highlights the challenges in translating awareness into actionable tools within clinical settings.
The 2026 Oncology Care Index from Johnson & Johnson surveyed 109 community oncologists and 100 practice administrators from May 21 to July 6, 2026. It found that 49% of oncologists use AI tools in some form, though this figure isn’t directly comparable to a 2025 survey of a broader healthcare group, which included urologists and advanced practice providers. Notably, only 10 of the surveyed oncologists were hematologists, a specialty where more than half of patients receive care in community settings.
AI’s Role in Cancer Care
Prerna Mewawalla, M.D., from Allegheny Health Network, highlights the potential of artificial intelligence in multiple myeloma care. She notes its ability to summarize patient records, draft visit notes, and screen for clinical trials. Mewawalla also sees a future for AI in early detection of conditions like AL amyloidosis, which is often diagnosed late due to its nonspecific symptoms. By linking signs such as nerve damage and heart muscle disease, AI could improve diagnostic timelines.
Tools like OpenEvidence can assist physicians and advanced practice providers with literature searches, providing free summaries complete with references. This resource is particularly valuable for staying updated on the latest evidence without the burden of extensive manual research.
Barriers to AI Adoption
Despite its promise, AI adoption faces significant hurdles. 44% of community oncologists cite lack of reimbursement as a major barrier, while 43% point to limited training and 41% to insufficient funding. Additionally, 97% of respondents stated that payer barriers delay or prevent patients from receiving appropriate therapies. These structural challenges show the need for systemic solutions to integrate AI effectively.
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Immunotherapy and Trial Access
The survey uncovers a confidence gap regarding new immunotherapies. Among community oncologists, 92% said their practice is very or somewhat comfortable managing these treatments, and 94% said it is very or somewhat equipped to offer them. However, fewer said they are very comfortable (43%) or very equipped (35%). The top barriers were staff training and expertise (38%), financial and reimbursement resources (38%), and infrastructure for adverse event management protocols (37%).
Mewawalla proposes that clear protocols can facilitate the management of complex therapies like CAR T-cell therapy in community settings. She highlights safeguards such as careful patient selection, providing wallet cards to alert emergency staff, and establishing a single point of contact for adverse events. Anyone answering a 2 a.m. call should have step-by-step instructions for each side effect grade, Mewawalla said.
Trial options are another gap. About 60% of community oncologists said their practice offers some trial options but a limited variety. Mewawalla encouraged trials to include more patients with comorbidities and to allow local participation instead of requiring travel to academic centers. She also said telehealth visits are not allowed in trials and that this needs to change.
Addressing the Gaps
AHN offers bispecific antibodies at its community sites, including in Erie, about two hours from Pittsburgh. Patients can receive the initial ramp-up doses outpatient, and the network trained staff across sites to manage side effects.
