To provide the information your oncologist is not telling you or doesn't have the time to!
Exploring the Human Side of Cancer Through Art and Stories
Immerse yourself in the human experience of cancer through our “Art of Oncology” category. Here, we delve into the emotional and personal aspects of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Explore stories of courage, resilience, and hope shared by survivors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Experience the healing power of art, creativity, and storytelling as we navigate the profound impact of cancer on individuals and their families.
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 …
I was out all last week on a long trip with my family and took a hiatus from posting. I am glad to be back in the clinic and in my usual routine. The evolution of Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) has drastically changed the landscape of medical documentation. What was once an internal tool for …
As oncologists, we are privileged to walk alongside patients and their families during some of the most challenging times in their lives. This responsibility becomes even more pronounced when we step into a role as a covering physician, whether temporarily filling in for a partner or taking on a temporary locum tenens assignments as I …
As the holiday season wraps up and 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on a year that has been both transformative and rejuvenating. This year has been different from any I’ve experienced before—a year of intentional living, personal growth, and deep gratitude. For the past 13 years, I was rooted in a …
Medical malpractice in oncology is a topic that often stirs emotions on all sides—patients, families, and physicians. For patients and caregivers, it may represent a loss of trust and unmet expectations. For providers, it can be a deeply personal challenge that touches the very heart of their commitment to care. In oncology, where time, precision, …
When facing a cancer diagnosis, timing can profoundly impact outcomes, both physically and emotionally. For some malignancies, delays in diagnosis or treatment can lead to disease progression, impacting prognosis and available treatment options. However, the urgency to act must also be balanced with the need for accurate diagnosis and a well-considered treatment plan. This article …
The recent story of unethical practices by a medical oncologist raises significant concerns and offers an opportunity to discuss red flags that patients, families, and even healthcare providers should be aware of when navigating cancer care. While most oncologists are guided by ethical principles and bound by professional accountability, recognizing warning signs can empower patients …