Alyx B. Porter, M.D.

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SUMMARY

The research interests of Alyx B. Porter, M.D., are focused on inclusive cancer care and improving the quality of life and treatment of patients with brain tumors. Specifically, she focuses on patients diagnosed with meningioma, brain metastases, and gliomas, such as glioblastoma multiforme, anaplastic astrocytoma, anaplastic oligodendroglioma and low-grade glioma.

Her work in inclusive cancer care includes improving access to clinical trials, reducing disparities in clinical trial enrollment and promoting heterogeneous workforces. The ideal is for workforces to be reflective of the patient populations they serve.

Focus areas

• Quality of life. Dr. Porter is the primary investigator for the largest clinical trial to date evaluating a psychostimulant to reduce fatigue in patients with high-grade glioma. She continues to dedicate effort toward improving symptoms that result from cancer treatment.
• Inclusive cancer care. Dr. Porter is actively involved in incorporating social determinants of health in clinical trial design. She also pursues opportunities to reduce barriers to access to care and enrollment in clinical trials for patients with neuro-oncologic diseases who have historically been excluded from such trials.
• Reducing disparities in neuro-oncology. Patients from all backgrounds deserve to see themselves represented in the health care workforce they trust with their care. Dr. Porter seeks to recognize improvements in trust, adherence and outcomes when they occur.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Porter aims to improve the quality of life of patients with brain cancer by helping them:

• Identify better treatment options.
• Reduce fatigue.
• Maintain independence and autonomy.
• Access and use known resources more effectively.

Additionally, she seeks to identify and eliminate barriers that directly or indirectly impact care for patients that often face such obstacles.

Professional highlights

• Medical director, Office of Access Management, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, 2022-present.
• Board member, American Brain Foundation, 2021-present.
• Medical director, Outpatient Practice, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, 2021-present.
• Founder and executive director, ElevateMeD, 2019-present.
• Co-chair, Central Nervous System Disease Group, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center, 2018-present.
• Women in Neuro-Oncology Mid-Career Exemplary Physician Award, Society for Neuro-Oncology, 2020.