Gilberto Jimenez-Justiniano, M.D., FACP, medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology–Irving. He discusses breakthrough cancer research and his approach to cancer care.
In your opinion, what is the most important breakthrough in cancer research to-date and how have you seen it change the course of treatment?
Immunotherapy is one of the most important breakthroughs in oncology in recent years. Immunotherapy treatments make it possible for some patients with diseases like melanoma and kidney cancer, which were once thought to be highly resistant to therapy, to experience better outcomes. In some patients, immunotherapy can eliminate the cancer completely. My hope is that as we learn more about these therapies and the immune system, cancer and treatment will become more manageable in patient’s day-to-day lives.
What excites you most about joining Texas Oncology?
I’m joining a practice that provides patients with excellent, compassionate care as well as access to clinical trials and the latest cancer treatments close to home and their families.
My work as an oncologist has given me the opportunity to share in the many struggles and joys cancer patients experience."
What are you most proud of when you reflect on your medical career?
My work as an oncologist has given me the opportunity to share in the many struggles and joys cancer patients experience. The relationships I develop with my patients and their families brings great fulfillment.
What is one thing you want your patients to know about you?
I became an oncologist because it gave me the opportunity to work in an area of leading-edge science and medicine. But most importantly, I became an oncologist because it gave me the opportunity to be involved in the care of people, where I can have a direct impact on their lives.