WASHINGTON, May 22, 2026 – Blood Cancer United, formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, is now accepting Letters of Intent for its Equity in Access Research Program. The 2026 Request for Proposals invites studies on how health insurance affects equitable access to care for individuals diagnosed with blood cancer. Letters of Intent are due September 10, 2026.
Blood Cancer United will award up to $750,000 per study, with funding expected to begin in October 2027. Interested researchers are encouraged to learn more by registering for the pre-application webinar on June 17, 2026.
“Blood Cancer United is committed to advancing policies, practices, and programs that help ensure every person affected by a blood cancer can access quality, affordable care when they need it,” said Eric Cooks, Ph.D., Senior Director of Blood Cancer United’s Equity in Access Research Program. “This research will help identify insurance-related barriers and inform state and federal solutions that can improve outcomes and quality of life.”
Equity in Access Research Program Key Dates & Deadlines:
- May 22, 2026: Application portal opens
- June 17, 2026 (1:30 p.m. ET): Webinar for prospective applicants (register here)
- September 10, 2026 (3:00 p.m. ET): Deadline to submit a Letter of Intent
- November 12, 2026: Invited applicants are notified to submit a full proposal
- February 4, 2027 (3:00 p.m. ET): Deadline for invited applicants to submit full proposal
- July 2027: Notification of awards
- October 1, 2027: Funding start date
The Urgent Need for Data
Policy change is a critical part of Blood Cancer United’s strategic approach to improve access to care and quality of life for people affected by blood cancer. For more than a decade, the organization has championed evidence-based health policy reforms at the state and federal levels, helping reduce barriers that can delay or limit care. Proposals should describe how study findings could inform public policy and, where applicable, healthcare practice. Study deliverables must be able to outline practical steps policymakers can consider to reduce access barriers and improve the quality of life and outcomes for individuals diagnosed with blood cancer.
Blood Cancer United’s Equity in Access Research Program
Since its launch in 2021, the Equity in Access Research Program has awarded more than $17 million to health services researchers across the U.S. This work is already making an impact and helping to inform policy. For example, findings on barriers young patients face in accessing cancer care helped Blood Cancer United successfully advocate for policies in California and New York that require in-network coverage for specialized cancer centers–helping lower patients’ out-of-pocket costs.
Learn more about Blood Cancer United’s Equity in Access Research Program, including how to apply, study criteria, key dates and deadlines, award amounts, and more, by visiting the site. Blood Cancer United proudly and gratefully acknowledges AstraZeneca's leadership in supporting the Equity in Access Research Program and other initiatives focused on reducing healthcare disparities in blood cancer care and treatment.
Meet the Team at 2026 ASCO
The Equity in Access Research Program team will be on-site in Chicago at the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting from May 29 – June 2. Stop by booth #10025 to speak with a Blood Cancer United representative to learn more about the program and the current Request for Proposals.
About Blood Cancer United®
Blood Cancer United® (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) is the largest global nonprofit focused on blood cancer patient support, research, and advocacy. Since their founding in 1949, the organization has consistently evolved to better serve people affected by all 100-plus types of blood cancer. Blood Cancer United funds innovative research, offers free resources and personalized support, and advocates at state and national levels for more accessible and affordable healthcare for all patients. To learn more, visit www.BloodCancerUnited.org.
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