Florida Cancer Specialists Foster Future of Oncology Training and Patient Care

Florida Cancer Specialists' Commitment to Medical Education

Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) is at the forefront of fostering new talent in the field of oncology by taking an active role in the 2025 Florida Society of Clinical Oncology (FLASCO) Fellows & Residents Training Program. Held in Orlando, this event serves as a critical educational platform designed for the aspiring oncologists of tomorrow. The annual training program represents a concerted effort to bridge the educational gap between theory and practice, which can often feel overwhelming for newly minted physicians.

Leadership and Expertise

Dr. Richard McDonough, the Director of Patient Advocacy at FCS, has taken the helm as the program chairman, leading a team that includes Dr. Alexander Philipovskiy, Associate Director of Drug Development, and Kiana Mehring, Senior Director of Partnerships and Managed Care. Their goal is to provide fellows and residents with the essential tools and mentorship needed to successfully transition into the high-stakes world of oncology practice.

Dr. McDonough articulates the importance of this program, stating, "Oncology is a constantly evolving field, and the transition from training to practice can be daunting. FLASCO's Fellows & Residents Training Program is designed to bridge that gap, providing the support, education, and mentorship necessary to empower the next generation of oncology leaders."

Event Highlights

The immersive nature of this training event offers medical oncology and hematology fellows, residents, and students a unique opportunity to interact with thought leaders in the field. They will engage in discussions and hands-on learning to equip them with practical knowledge as they prepare to enter the oncology workforce.

One of the standout sessions, moderated by Dr. McDonough, is titled "Bridging Research to Reality: The Roadmap for Trials - Real World Impact." This presentation features Dr. Philipovskiy sharing insights from his extensive experience with FCS’s expansive clinical trials program. The discussion will revolve around the facets of developing and conducting phase one clinical trials, essential knowledge for any budding oncologist.

FCS operates several Drug Development Units throughout Florida, constantly uncovering innovative solutions for cancer treatment. Many of the new cancer drugs approved in the U.S. have undergone initial testing at FCS, emphasizing the organization's vital role in drug development and healthcare innovation.

Kiana Mehring will present on cost-related topics, specifically addressing billing and coding essentials, which are crucial for ensuring the financial viability of oncology practices. Additional sessions are set to cover mapping out oncology career paths, enhancing collaborative care through partnerships with pharmacies, and understanding the challenges within oncology training.

Not only will physicians and residents benefit from this unique educational exchange, but oncology nurses, social workers, patient advocates, and practice administrators will also be present, highlighting the program's emphasis on a comprehensive view of patient care.

FCS's Legacy and Commitment to Innovation

With over 40 years of experience, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute has embraced cutting-edge advancements in oncology, continually transforming the landscape of cancer care. The organization's commitment to clinical research enables patients to join a variety of clinical trials, crucially positioning FCS as one of the leading private oncology practices, not just in Florida, but across the entire nation.

In conclusion, the 2025 FLASCO Fellows & Residents Training Program marks a significant chapter in FCS’s ongoing mission to invest in the future of cancer care. By nurturing the next generation of oncology professionals, FCS ensures that patients receive the highest quality of care informed by the latest advancements in the field.

About Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, LLC
Florida Cancer Specialists delivers personalized care through innovative research and a robust clinical trials program aimed at improving patient outcomes. As a pioneering force in the oncology community, FCS is dedicated to training the leaders of tomorrow’s healthcare landscape.