What is the key to becoming an outstanding radiation oncologist?  

I am not sure that my life experience qualifies me to answer such a big question but in attempting to give you my opinion I have drawn upon the behaviors and values of my mentors and others in the field who made a significant difference in the lives of their patients, colleagues, and students. If I ...

We heard the usual: “Be a good person, an excellent Physician and an Outstanding Radiation Oncologist”. However, I believe there are other traits that help to achieve that laudable professional goal: Honesty - It will enhance all interactions in personal and professional life. ...

Henry Kaplan, who was my mentor and probably the greatest pure intellect in the history of ALL radiology, used to say that the most important ingredient for a good radiation oncologist was the judgment that came from being a good physician. I don’t know what you mean by “outstanding&rdqu...

I agree with all of the wonderful conceptual advice offered above.   Something very simple and easily achievable that I like to share with my residents is that the good radiation oncologists know their radiologists and speak with them frequently. It may sound trite, but reviewing complex imag...

Drs. Rose and Katz are spot on.  My motto is that humor is armor.  Integrity and honesty are fundamental - tell it like it is: to yourself, to your colleagues, to your patients (do I give Howard Cosell credit here). Honesty includes being critical and skeptical - trust but verify (ok, I'll...

All very insightful thoughts..............would just add that, as physicians and radiation oncologists, we should always take the time and effort to listen to each and everyone of our patients.   What are they really trying to tell us, verbally and/or nonverbally?  What are ...

My first mentor was Bob Sagerman, who simply said, "When you go home each day, make sure that you have been the best doctor you could have been."  That means, as others have said, even when you fail, if you can be confident that you have tried your best, that is all anyone can ask of you.  ...

I agree with everything @Christopher M. Rose so eloquently said.  I would suggest two additional attributes: 1.  Humility:  Failure is inevitable, and humility allows us to be open to learning from our mistakes.  Arrogance also is a barrier to the free flow of information b...

Excellent answers all. Bottom line: First be a good person.