To provide the information your oncologist is not telling you or doesn't have the time to!
I was recently asked to write a letter of recommendation for one of my former clinical research coordinators—a young professional I had the privilege of working with for nearly two years. What I expected to be a routine task turned into something much more meaningful. It was an opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate the …
As clinicians, we’re taught to advocate fiercely for our patients—but far less is said about advocating for ourselves. This week, I learned just how valuable that can be. For the first time in my career, I engaged a healthcare law firm—not because of a lawsuit, malpractice case, or legal battle, but simply to make sure …
As I wrap up my recent assignment in Montana, I’m excited to begin a new locum role closer to home on the East Coast—working a Monday through Wednesday schedule, with weekends off and time to recharge. It’s a thoughtful balance that supports the type of sustainable, high-quality care I aim to deliver, and I’m fortunate …
As a medical oncologist practicing across various healthcare settings nationwide, I often reflect on the deeply human side of medicine—the day-to-day challenges, emotional complexities, and clinical decision-making that shape patient care. One of the ways I’ve found to process and share those insights is through storytelling—offering blog readers a glimpse into the world of oncology …
Ok… here’s the drawback of doing locum work as a generalist coming after 14 years of specialty focus practice: I may see things I haven’t seen since I was fellow! Like this case below… enjoy my stress on call! Also, great news! I am close to signing a new contract with a new hospital system …
Just got back from family spring break vacation and sincerely appreciative of the great feedback I was getting after changing the format of the blog to personal stories from the clinic and every day life as a medical oncologist. I’ll still include updates with FDA approvals or interesting topics from the current news every so …
The Patient’s Story Yesterday, I met a patient whose story was both heartbreaking and inspiring. A young woman, recently diagnosed with an aggressive form of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), sat alone in the exam room. Typically, younger patients come with a support system—spouses, parents, friends—but she was alone. It was my first clue that her journey …
This week, I encountered a situation that weighs heavily on me as a nurse but raises an important question in the oncology world. As a clinical trial nurse, we typically only see our patients at research-specific visits. It’s likely that several weeks can go by without any contact, making each visit a critical touchpoint. Imagine …
As healthcare providers, we often encounter patients who have strong beliefs about their health and treatment options. Today’s case was a perfect example of how a balanced conversation and patience can lead to an unexpected, but positive, outcome. The Patient’s Story An elderly but otherwise independent and healthy lady presented with a basal cell carcinoma …
Note to patients and caregivers: This post is intended for fellow medical oncologists who may be considering alternative career paths, particularly locum tenens work. While my usual audience consists of patients and caregivers, this article is specifically written for healthcare professionals who may be feeling burnt out or contemplating a change. For 14 years, I …