UCLA Journal of Radiation Oncology SUMMER 2024 - Flipbook - Page 84
UCLA RADIATION ONCOLOGY JOURNAL
must also communicate effectively with patients
when discussing treatment options, explaining
potential outcomes, and addressing patient
concerns. This requires an understanding of the
patient's preferences, values, and lifestyle which
helps tailor treatment decisions and makes the
experience more personalized and supportive.
Advancements in radiation therapy technology,
such as image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT)
and intensity-modulated radiation therapy
(IMRT), are also promising in their ability
to treat cancer in patients and expand the
possibilities for treatment customization and
precision, which would allow for more effective
and targeted therapies. I also think I would enjoy
the adaptability required and collaboration with
a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers
to coordinate comprehensive care tailored to
each patient.
dose of radiation directly to the tumor while
sparing surrounding healthy tissues. This is
especially beneficial in cancers like cervical
and vaginal tumors, where proximity to critical
structures requires precise treatment delivery.
I have had family members who received
brachytherapy services, but the preceptorship
offered me the opportunity to see this form of
radiation therapy be delivered. I would love
to explore how advancements such as imageguided brachytherapy can further refine
treatment outcomes. Mastering these techniques
not only enhances treatment efficacy, but
also improves quality of life for patients by
minimizing side effects and preserving normal
tissue function.
E: Do you foresee a future in Radiation
Oncology?
M: I do. I view Radiation Oncology is an art
that combines scientific knowledge with
artistic elements such as creativity, precision,
and personalized care. It tailors treatment
plans to each patient's unique anatomy, tumor
characteristics, and overall health by blending
medical knowledge, technical skills, and
creativity to deliver the most effective treatment
while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. It
also requires precise targeting of tumors while
sparing surrounding healthy tissues which
requires careful planning and execution similar
to an artist's careful brushstrokes or a musician
constantly tuning and retuning their instrument,
ensuring that the radiation dose is delivered
exactly where it's needed. Artists also seek to
evoke emotions or convey messages through
their work, similar to how radiation oncologists
E: What do you hope to glean/gain from the
UCLA Radiation Oncology Medical Student
Preceptorship?
M: I hope to gain a deeper understanding
of the role that radiation therapy plays in
the comprehensive management of cancer
patients. I’m particularly interested in learning
about the intricacies of treatment planning,
the technological advancements in radiation
delivery, and the multidisciplinary approach
involved in patient care. Additionally, I want to
develop skills in evaluating patient outcomes
and understanding the side effect profiles
associated with different radiation therapies,
especially through gaps in literature. Observing
and participating in patient consultations
will also help me appreciate the balance
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