Emily Touloukian, DO, president of Coastal Cancer Center, knows that medical fellows are key to shaping the future of community oncology. Encouraging more physicians-in-training to practice in local, independent clinics will ensure people with cancer continue to have access to high-quality care in their preferred treatment setting: their community.
In her own fellowship, Dr. Touloukian trained in both an academic and a community setting. The experience, she explains, was eye-opening—revealing that community oncology was her true calling.
“Students who only train in an academic setting may not even realize community oncology is an option. Showing them how rewarding community oncology can be is the best way to build our workforce and protect access for the millions of patients who rely on independent clinics,” says Dr. Touloukian.
Through the Community Oncology Alliance Fellows Initiative, Dr. Touloukian ensures hematology and oncology fellows don’t overlook community oncology. During her conversations with fellows, she points to the benefits of practicing in the same community as where you live.
“Patients are always more than just a number in community oncology. Practicing where you live gives you this incredible sense of connection to your patients. Those strong bonds build trust and lead to better care and outcomes,” she says.
