Arun R. Rao, M.D., medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology–San Antonio Southeast. Dr. Rao shares what inspired him to specialize in cancer care and a defining moment in his medical career.
What excites you about joining an organization like Texas Oncology?
I am very excited to join and be a part of the Texas Oncology community. Texas Oncology is a premier, physician-owned organization that delivers leading-edge oncologic care and research opportunities in a community setting. I admire the multidisciplinary approach to cancer care offered to provide patients with longer, fuller lives.
Did you always know you wanted to be a doctor, specifically specializing in cancer care?
When I did my medical training in India, there was a lack of adequate cancer treatment facilities for patients. During my residency, I was drawn to medical oncology and its complexity of treatment options, as well as the research being studied to improve cancer survivorship. I am also thankful to have had an incredible mentor who inspired me to continue my career in cancer care.
What do you think the future of cancer treatment will look like?
I believe the future of cancer treatment will involve more precision medicine and targeted therapies individually tailored to the genetic makeup of the patient. Our efforts in patient care are beginning to move away from chemotherapy and toward innovative, transformative treatments such as immunotherapy, CAR-T, and proton therapy.
What has been a defining moment in your medical career?
Being accepted into my medical oncology fellowship program was a defining moment in my career. My time spent during this program helped me realize that specializing in cancer care was what I wanted to do the rest of my life.
What are you regularly tuning into right now (e.g., podcast, show, music, book, etc.)?
I am a huge jazz music fan. I have an extensive vinyl collection that I enjoy listening to. I also like to tune into Dr. Neil Love’s oncology podcast to keep up with the latest updates from conferences.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy spending your time doing?
I love to travel! My family and I enjoy exploring new places here in the U.S. or internationally. As a jazz fan, I am always looking for new vinyl to add to my collection.