Bilal Salame, M.D., hematologist and medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at
Texas Oncology–Mansfield. Dr. Salame shares how his patients inspire him and what he looks forward to most moving to Texas.
1. How do you balance the emotional impact of treating cancer patients while maintaining a positive outlook on your work?
Although challenging, it’s very rewarding when you can meaningfully make an impact and provide a better quality of life to someone navigating cancer. Those experiences have allowed me to keep a positive outlook.
2. What are the biggest challenges you face in your profession?
As an oncologist, you are your patient's biggest advocate. While coordinating care can be challenging, I would say the biggest challenge I face are the financial or administrative steps such as insurance authorizations.
3. What moment has touched you most as a medical professional?
My most memorable moment came about when I was treating a young male for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), a rare disorder. As a medical professional, seeing first-hand the positive change in his mental outlook after just one day of plasmapheresis was truly inspiring.
4. What are you looking forward to exploring in Texas?
I’m most looking forward to exploring the food scene in Texas!
5. What is your favorite movie?
I enjoy sci-fi and thriller movies. I’d say “Interstellar” and “Hereditary” are some of my recent favorite movies.
6. What is your favorite place you’ve ever visited?
My favorite place I’ve ever visited would have to be Italy. It’s a beautiful country with great food.
7. Do you have a favorite sport or affiliated sports team that you actively follow?
I’m a big fan of basketball and football. Growing up in South Florida, my allegiance is with the Miami Heat and Miami Dolphins. I also went to the University of Florida for undergraduate, so I follow the Gators as well.