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Texas Oncology Surgical Specialists–Austin Central Welcomes Dr. Christopher R. Oxner

September 28, 2020

Cmdr. Christopher R. Oxner, M.D., FACS, USN, surgical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology Surgical Specialists–Austin Central. He shares his hopes for the future of cancer care and reflects on his career to date.

What excites you most about joining an organization like Texas Oncology?

First, I was born and grew up in Arlington, Texas. And while I am proud of my time in the U.S. Navy, my family and I are overjoyed to be back in the great state of Texas. Texas Oncology is dedicated to quality, evidence-based cancer care, and its ideals and mission directly align with my personal and professional morals and standards for cancer care. Texas Oncology has amazing physicians and support staff that are not only dedicated to our patients, but their commitment inspires me to be the best physician I can be.

Texas Oncology has amazing physicians and support staff that are not only dedicated to our patients, but their commitment inspires me to be the best physician I can be."

Did you always know you wanted to be a doctor, specifically studying oncology?

I've wanted to be a physician since I was 13 years old. My love for treating cancer patients evolved throughout my residency. I struggled with many interests but found my true passion for surgical oncology, which is both challenging and rewarding. The challenge derives from the breadth of cases that require an intricate knowledge of human anatomy and complete cancer care for the patient. The reward comes from patients granting me the privilege to be a part of this difficult journey and help gain quality years to their lives so that they can spend it with their family and friends.

What are you most looking forward to as cancer treatment continues to evolve?

The discovery of newer and better treatments leading to improved outcomes, and the ability to tell more and more patients that they have no evidence of disease. The hope that I can continue to positively impact my patients beyond my role as a surgeon, but also a healer.

Where is your favorite place you’ve ever visited?

That’s not an easy answer with so much beauty and so many different cultures, ecosystems, and landscapes. But I guess two come to mind, Okinawa, Japan, and southern Germany. Okinawans have such a unique culture with the attitude and friendliness of island life, and the beaches and diving aren't half-bad either. Germany, because I studied the language, so it’s very cool to be immersed in the culture as well.

What’s the best book you’ve read? Or the latest?

I am no critic and do not get to read much, but I would have to say, Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston and Left Behind by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins (I never finished the series though).


For upcoming webinars visit www.TexasOncologyFoundation.org.