Samuel Adam Geurkink, D.O., hematologist and medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology–Keller. Dr. Geurkink shares how he believes collaborative care is essential to providing high-quality cancer treatment and what a perfect day looks like to him.
What inspired you to become a physician?
I’ve always had an interest in science and physiology, which naturally led me down this path. To be able to use that interest and passion to help others as a physician is a tremendous privilege. Medicine - hematology and oncology especially - provides a setting to form meaningful personal relationships with patients while taking care of their healthcare needs. It is such a blessing to do work you love that also serves your community. I’m extremely grateful to have ended up in this field.
What was your motivation to join an organization like Texas Oncology?
Texas Oncology has a long-standing tradition of excellence and I have heard nothing but good things about the organization. With such a large number of partners and specialties, there is great opportunity for collaborative care, which is absolutely essential in providing high-quality care for our patients.
What do you think the future of cancer treatment will look like?
Cancer care, and healthcare in general, will continue to become more personalized. With the increased availability and decreased cost of genetic testing, I think more therapies will be tailored to target specific mutations within a tumor, rather than just focusing on the tumor type. There has been great success with the advent of immunotherapy and the efforts to utilize the immune system in the fight against cancer. Additionally, I think the gut microbiome’s role in cancer development and response to treatment will continue to be utilized for prevention and treatment of cancer in the future.
What movie genre do you like to watch and why?
I enjoy any genre, as long as the storyline and acting are good!
What song best describes you?
‘Love Without End, Amen’ by George Strait. It is a great song about a father’s love for his children.
What does a perfect day look like to you?
Spring or fall weather, spending time with my family, playing tennis, cooking and eating great food, and fishing.
Do you play any instruments? If so, what do you play and how did you get started? If not, what is an instrument you wish you could play and why?
I’ve always loved listening to and playing music. I started playing the guitar when I was around 10 years old. It’s a great creative outlet away from work, and my kids enjoy playing songs with me as well!