Oncologist joining Welch Cancer Center team notes privilege of caring for patients
For Dr. Christian Kim, the science of medicine originally drew him to a career in oncology. The cellular function of our bodies, our immune systems – it all fascinated Kim. As he delved more into the science, though, he realized he was missing something.
“You learn a lot more – a lot about people – when you work in oncology,” Kim said. “There are physicians who work with families including grandparents, parents and grandkids, but that’s not the case for oncologists typically. Our interactions tend to be very intense and unfortunately sometimes far too short.
“It is a privilege to get to know patients in such a vulnerable time,” Kim continued. “You become not only a scientist but somebody they trust every step of the way and somebody they know will be their best advocate. The science and the intensity of the interactions are challenging, but also incredibly rewarding.”
Kim grew up in a small community outside of Philadelphia, where everyone knew everyone within the small graduating classes. He earned his medical degree from Medical College of Pennsylvania and Hahnemann University and further attended Milton S. Hershey Medical Center at Pennsylvania State University Hospital for a residency in internal medicine and fellowship in hematology/oncology.
Most recently, he has worked in communities on the outskirts of Sacramento, California, practicing medical oncology since 2007. While a smaller community, Kim noted he was impressed by the level of care provided at SMH.
He joined the Welch Cancer Center team in July, drawn to the hospital and community’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of friends, families and neighbors.
“The people here really impress me,” Kim said. “There is a genuine sense of community and a real interest in improving as much as we can.”
Kim moved to the Sheridan area with his wife and daughter and said they all look forward to exploring the area together.
Kim joins Dr. Megan Ratterman, Oncology Nurse Practitioner Nina Beach and the Welch Cancer Center staff at Sheridan Memorial Hospital.
To learn more about Dr. Christian Kim and the Welch Cancer Center, see https://www.sheridanhospital.org/medical-services/welch-cancer-center/.