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01. Doctor Overview

Doctor Overview

Much of Dr. West’s research focuses on pleural mesothelioma and other cancers of the lungs, and he has led numerous clinical trials in search of better treatment options for the disease. He has also completed studies on the outcomes of induction chemotherapy, extrapleural pneumonectomy and adjuvant radiation therapy for malignant mesothelioma patients.

Addressing the needs of individual patients remains at the forefront of Dr. West’s philosophy of care. “My primary goal is to provide optimal balance of appropriate, aggressive treatment and a good quality of life,” he said. “This requires individualized plans based on a patient’s particular goals and medical issues.” For many patients, Dr. West explains, a treatment plan will include a chemotherapy combination of cisplatin and Alimta®, but there are alternatives for patients who can’t tolerate that regimen, such as the often better-tolerated carboplatin.

In addition to his work in lung cancer, Dr. West conducts clinical research in prostate cancer and genitourinary oncology, a field of oncology concerned with bladder, kidney and testicular cancers. In 2007, Dr. West also founded a nonprofit medical education forum called Global Resource for Advancing Cancer Education (GRACE), which addresses a range of cancer topics and provides educational materials for its members. He continues to serve as the organization’s CEO. Dr. West is dedicated to improving cancer care and research. Addressing the needs of individual patients remains at the forefront of Dr. West’s philosophy of care.

Dr. West is an Associate Clinical Professor in Medical Oncology at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center. Before his current role, Dr. West directed the Thoracic Oncology Program at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle.

02. Fast Facts

Doctor Fast Facts

Main Specialty: Oncology

Other Interests & Specialties: Hematologic oncology, general oncology, genitourinary oncology and thoracic cancers.

Certifications, Awards & Accolades: American Board of Internal Medicine Certification in Medical Oncology, Super Doc Award

Education & Experience:

  • Residency for Internal Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Fellowship for Medical Oncology at University of Washington
  • Internship for Internal Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital
  • Medical Degree from Harvard Medical School
03. Publications

Publications