Erlanger Women’s Oncology
When he was young, Dr. Matthew Oliver had several role models who were physicians and who served as his mentors and inspiration. “They stressed the importance that physicians play in a community,” says Dr. Oliver. “My passion for science and desire to help others in need made medicine an ideal choice.” Now, with six years working as a gynecologic oncologist under his belt, Dr. Oliver uses his love for helping others in order to bring comfort throughout the cancer-care journey. “We are directly involved with coordinating each step of the care process,” Dr. Oliver adds. “Whether it be in-office follow-up, scheduling surgery, starting chemotherapy, referring to radiation oncology, scheduling imaging studies, or enrolling in clinical trials, we aim to make it convenient for patients.”
“This continuity of care and ability to develop long-term relationships with my patients is what brought me into this field and is the part of my job that I love the most.”
1. What is one of your happiest professional moments?
My happiest professional moments are when patients and their families feel completely satisfied with their care. Whether it is cancer-related or some other gynecological issue, needing medical care can be uncomfortable and overwhelming. When I get to see that fear melt away, it is a very satisfying experience.
2. What do you see as the most exciting new development for your profession?
The number and types of cancer treatments are rapidly improving. PARP inhibitors and immune therapy are transforming outcomes for women with ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers and are associated with significantly less toxicities than traditional chemotherapy.
3. What’s the key to making a great first impression?
I think the most important aspect in making a great first impression is being fully present and making the person you are with feel heard and seen.
4. What does your daily routine look like?
I love the diversity that this job offers. Most mornings start off with meetings. After that, I am seeing patients either in the hospital or in the office, and most days of the week, I am operating.
5. What would you consider to be your main strengths?
I thrive when working in a team environment, and I’m not afraid to reach out for help and do further investigating to find the answer if I don’t already know it.
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