Division Head Message

Leaders in a rapidly changing medical field

The field of medical oncology is one of the most rapidly changing areas of medicine. Tremendous advances in our understanding of the molecular biology and genetics of cancer, coupled with improved diagnostic capabilities and rapidly expanding treatment options have led to cure rates for early stage cancers that have never been higher and survival rates for patients with metastatic disease that continue to improve.

Outstanding education and training

Residents and medical students who choose to study medical oncology can look forward to a rewarding career in this rapidly evolving field. A career as a medical oncologist is both challenging and stimulating and spans a wide spectrum of interests from molecular genetics to medical ethics. Dalhousie University provides outstanding education and training opportunities that prepare medical students and residents to be medically proficient and compassionate practitioners.

Atlantic Canada focus, national and international reach

Dalhousie’s two-year medical oncology residency training program focuses on training excellent medical oncologists for Atlantic Canada. Because division members provide referral services and treatment to patients throughout the region, learners are exposed to a broad range of patients and oncological problems. Through well-established national and international linkages, the Division collaborates with many major cancer centers in the development of research and educational initiatives and the program’s relatively small size offers the added advantage of considerable one-on-one training in all aspects of medical oncology.

Leading research, best possible patient care

Our division’s active involvement in clinical research and evidence-based care provides opportunities for learners to participate in clinical trials as well as health outcomes and pharmacoeconomic research, and learn from highly respected clinicians and clinical scientists. We believe that these experiences are important in inspiring learners to pursue a lifelong quest for better, safer and more accessible treatments, delivered with compassion, and aimed at improving the lives and outcomes of our patients.

Sincerely,

Dr. Nathan Lamond
Interim division head / service chief, Division of Medical Oncology