Antoinette Matthews, M.D., hematologist and medical oncologist, has recently joined Texas Oncology–Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center. Dr. Matthews tells us about her passion for providing community-based cancer care.
What inspired you to specialize in cancer care?
When I started medical school, I didn’t know what field of medicine I wanted to specialize in. I did know, however, that I wanted to work in a field that allowed me to build meaningful relationships with my patients and have a positive impact on their lives. Since I started working with cancer patients, I have been able to create strong bonds while guiding them through their cancer diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, recent advances in cancer treatments have made it possible to improve survival rates while also maintaining patients’ quality of life, so it is truly an inspiring and exciting time to be working in oncology.
What are you most looking forward to as cancer treatment continues to evolve?
There has recently been a paradigm shift in the treatment of cancer toward therapies that either aid our immune system in identifying and fighting cancer or block the genetic drivers of cancer cell growth. With these developments, we have significantly improved the way we treat cancer, and I look forward to continued progress in this direction.
By joining Texas Oncology, I know that my patients will have access to experts in surgical and radiation oncology who all share a common goal: doing what is best for the patient."
What excites you most about joining an organization like Texas Oncology?
Texas Oncology is an incredible statewide organization focused on providing excellent and compassionate oncologic care close to home. By joining Texas Oncology, I know that my patients will have access to experts in surgical and radiation oncology who all share a common goal: doing what is best for the patient.
What would you like your legacy as a physician to be?
I hope that I am remembered for working with my patients and their families as a team. I believe that cancer care should be as individualized as possible, and that in educating our patients and discussing goals of care, we can practice evidence-based medicine while adhering to our patients’ preferences and maintaining their dignity. When teaching medical students and working with residents and fellows, I hope to instill this belief into future oncologists as well.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, trying new restaurants, browsing new home listings online, traveling, spending time with my husband, and playing with our six-month-old son, Sebastian.