Inpatient Oncology Consult Service (Clinical Elective)

2 units

Medical Oncology is a complex subspecialty that is undergoing a rapid evolution as a result of new systemic treatment approaches that stem from biological insights into the nature of cancer. During the course of the elective, medical students will be able to interact with attending physicians and patients for bedside teaching and attend tumor boards and lectures focused on the care of patients with solid tumors. The student will function as a member of the consult service team. Duties will include performing initial consultations and follow-up care under the supervision of an Oncology attending and an Oncology fellow. At the end of the rotation, the students will appreciate the principles of our approach to cancer patients and should have gained insights into the evaluation and management of patients with newly diagnosed malignancies. The role of surgery, radiation, and systemic treatment will also be an important theme, as well as the conduct of clinical research in this patient population. Students will also learn to care for hospitalized patients suffering from complications from their cancer or from toxicities due to treatments. Oncologic emergencies will be covered. Issues such as palliative care treatment options and end-of-life decision making will be explored as well.