Eligibility and Registration Process for Patient Advocates
The reduced patient advocate registration rate is reserved exclusively for individuals whose primary role is patient advocacy. This rate is offered to ensure that patient advocates, who often participate without institutional or grant support, have equitable access to attend the conference and meaningfully engage with the scientific community.
Individuals who primarily identify as researchers, scientists, physicians, nurses, clinicians, trainees, industry consultants, or other health professionals are not eligible for the reduced patient advocate rate, even if they work closely with patient advocates or incorporate advocacy into their professional activities.
Registration Approval Process
All applicants seeking the reduced patient advocate registration rate must receive prior approval from AACR staff before registering for the meeting or conference. Completed verification forms must be submitted at least one week prior to the meeting or conference.
Once approved, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to complete their registration at the reduced rate.
Eligibility Criteria for the Reduced Patient Advocate Rate
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that patient advocacy is their primary professional or volunteer role and that they are dedicated to advancing patient interests in cancer research and policy.
Applicants must be employed by or volunteer with a not-for-profit patient advocacy organization focused on improving the lives of people affected by cancer.
The organization must:
- Have a clearly defined charitable mission
- Actively engage in patient advocacy as it's primary focus
- Provide programs, activities, or services that directly benefit patients with cancer
Ineligibility Criteria
The following individuals are not eligible for the reduced patient advocate registration rate. Individuals whose primary professional identity is as a:
The following individuals are not eligible for the reduced patient advocate registration rate. Individuals whose primary professional identity is as a:
- Researcher or scientist
- Physician, nurse, or other clinician
- Trainee or student in a scientific or clinical discipline
- Health care professional or academic faculty member
- Applicants with five or more years of laboratory research experience or actively engaged in research
- Applicants actively engaged in clinical practice
- Current or former AACR Active, Affiliate (not approved as an advocate member), or Associate members
- Individuals employed by or representing Industry, or a consulting firm serving Industry
NOTE: This applies even if such individuals collaborate with, support, or work alongside patient advocates.