Jefferson has had a long and distinguished record of cancer care and innovation for nearly a century, establishing specialty tumor clinics, becoming an early member and supporter of cooperative cancer therapy groups, and establishing an early site for clinical drug evaluation in partnership with NCI. Medical Oncology became a formal division at Jefferson within in the Department of Medicine in 1961. Its Directors have included Arthur Weiss, MD (1961-1970), Chester Southam, MD (1970-1980), William F. Delaney, MD (interim 1980-1981), J. Frederick Laucius, MD (interim 1981-1984), Michael J. Mastrangelo (1984-1993), Robert Comis (1993-1997), Bruce Boman (1997-2001), Neal Flomenberg (2001-2021), Ana Maria Lopez (Interim Chairman 2021 - 2022) and Wm. Kevin Kelly (2023-present). Since its inception, the major activities of the Division have been patient care, teaching, research, and the training of medical oncology fellows.
In July 2006, the division of Medical Oncology became an official Department in Jefferson Medical College. Dr. Neal Flomenberg was named as the first chairman of the Department in January 2008. The department has grown from 15 faculty members in 2008 to 41 by September 2011 and has established four divisions. The division of Hematologic Malignancies is directed by Dr. Pierluigi Porcu. The division of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation is directed by Dr. Usama Gergis. The division of Solid Tumor Oncology is directed by Dr. Atrayee Basu Mallick. The division of Population Science will be directed by Hoda Badr PhD and our division of Supportive Oncology is being directed by Dr. Brooke Worster.
Over the next decade, medicine is poised for transformative changes driven by scientific advancements and evolving socioeconomic factors. Our department is proactively preparing to navigate these shifts and continue delivering exceptional care.
The routine sequencing of both normal and cancer genomes is becoming increasingly feasible. This progress will result in an influx of genetic data, offering unprecedented opportunities to tailor treatments to individual patients. For instance, whole genome sequencing (WGS) and whole exome sequencing (WES) are already being applied to identify genetic variants associated with various cancers, enabling more precise and effective interventions.
As healthcare becomes more personalized, ensuring accessibility and quality remains paramount. Innovative models, such as the oncology patient-centered medical home, are being developed to provide comprehensive, coordinated care that addresses the unique needs of cancer patients . Additionally, integrating digital tools to centralize patient data can accelerate diagnosis and treatment, as demonstrated by NHS England's Cancer 360 initiative.
While the landscape of medicine evolves, our dedication to providing the best possible care remains steadfast. We are committed to embracing these advancements to enhance patient outcomes and shape the future of healthcare.
By integrating cutting-edge genomic insights with patient-centered approaches, we aim to lead the way in delivering personalized, accessible, and high-quality care for all.