Important Skills for an Oncologist to Have

Oncologists
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Loretta Itri, MD, who most recently worked at the Medicines Company, Inc. as executive vice president of global health sciences and regulatory affairs has over three decades of experience in pharma and biotech. Loretta Itri specializes in clinical and regulatory affairs, and is an emeritus member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

An oncologist manages patients from the moment a cancer diagnosis is confirmed. Oncologists have a thorough understanding of the symptoms of different cancers, and help recommend the best cancer diagnostic tests. Once it is confirmed that a patient has cancer, oncologists prescribe the best course of treatment. They also monitor patients both throughout their treatment and after. This role requires excellent communication skills, as oncologists have to communicate effectively with their patients and support staff.

Cancer patients can undergo a lot of pain and distress, which is best handled by a professional who is compassionate and understanding. An oncologist must have good attention to detail, since they need to carefully record and examine every piece of information related to their patients.

Dealing with cancer patients requires an oncologist to dedicate long works of work, often including night duties and weekends. Patience and empathy are critical virtues, as many cancer patients become anxious and may require a lot of emotional support.

Singer Richard Thompson on International Tour

Board certified in internal medicine, Loretta Itri, MD, possess a strong background in oncology, pharmaceutical development, and clinical strategy. Outside of her career, Dr. Loretta Itri enjoys attending Broadway plays and live musical performances. She plans on seeing Richard Thompson, one of her favorite musicians, onstage in Montclair, New Jersey.

Folk-rock singer/songwriter Richard Thompson entered the British music scene as a band member of Fairport Convention and went on to a successful solo career after he left the group at age 21. Over the past 50 years, Thompson has released more than a dozen albums and collaborated with other well-know artists such as Rufus Wainwright and Bonnie Raitt.

Named one of the greatest guitarists of all time by Rolling Stone magazine, Thompson released his latest widely acclaimed album, 13 Rivers, in late 2018 and recently added concert dates in North America, the United Kingdom, and Africa. In April 2019, Thompson announced a landmark show in September at London’s Royal Albert Hall to celebrate his 70th birthday.