Network Selection Guide

A practical, physician-led framework for evaluating whether your current partnerships are supporting—or hindering—your practice’s long-term goals.

Today’s independent oncology practices face growing complexity—from operational pressures to evolving care models. In this short, expert-authored guide, medical oncologist and AON Chief Medical Officer Dr. Stephen “Fred” Divers shares strategic insights on how to assess your existing GPO and network relationships. Learn what to look for, which questions to ask, and how the right infrastructure can help your practice grow—without sacrificing autonomy.

Why GPOs, while valuable, aren’t built to support your entire practice model
7 signs you may be outgrowing your current network or vendor structure
A simple checklist to assess whether your current infrastructure supports future growth
How to maintain clinical independence while adapting to value-based care models
What to look for in a partner that centers physician leadership and long-term sustainability
How integrated informatics and AI-driven tools can help bridge the gap between innovation and implementation
Why real-time data, unified platforms, and predictive analytics are now table stakes for practices that want to grow

Stephen "Fred" Divers, MD

About the Author

Stephen “Fred” Divers, M.D., is a medical oncologist at Genesis Cancer and Blood Institute and Chief Medical Officer at American Oncology Network. A practicing physician who’s been through the same crossroads, Dr. Divers offers a clear-eyed look at how practices can navigate the shifting oncology landscape with confidence.

As one of the first physicians to join AON in 2018, he now leads strategy and transformation efforts to ensure AON’s clinical model addresses both patient care and long-term practice sustainability.

Jeanna Knoble, MD

“Practices can sometimes have concerns about losing autonomy and independence if they join a corporate program. With AON, we haven’t lost our autonomy and are free to practice what we consider to be the best medicine for our patients.”

Jeanna Knoble, MD
Zangmeister Cancer Center

Brian Mulherin, MD

“The lab and pathology team at AON are driving growth by expanding service lines and creating new revenue opportunities. Their focus on building internal capabilities and strategic partnerships is strengthening both patient care and practice sustainability.”

Brian Mulherin, MD
Hematology Oncology of Indiana

Raja S. Mehdi, MD

“With AON I can stay completely focused on the patient because half my mind is no longer occupied with administrative issues. We can function more efficiently as individuals and be even more patient-centered than before.”

Raja S. Mehdi, MD
Hope Cancer Care of Nevada

American Oncology Network (AON) is a fast-growing alliance of physicians and healthcare leaders dedicated to advancing community-based oncology. Founded in 2018, we now support more than 300 providers across 20 states with a physician-led, value-based care model.

Our mission is to help independent practices thrive—delivering better outcomes, lowering costs, and expanding access to quality cancer care. AON provides comprehensive practice support, integrated services, and revenue-enhancing solutions so physicians can stay focused on what matters most: patient care.

We’re also committed to promoting health equity and addressing disparities in cancer treatment—because every patient deserves a chance at better outcomes.

We know that thoughtful partnerships and modern infrastructure—particularly around informatics and integration—are critical to preserving autonomy while driving sustainable growth.

Discover how AON is shaping the future of oncology through innovation, collaboration, and physician empowerment.