Nathan Kim, M.D., Ph.D.

Breast Radiation Oncologist in Dallas

Nathan Kim, M.D., Ph.D., did not start his educational career with a goal of being a radiation oncologist. In fact, his Ph.D. is in biochemistry. But his personal experience with family members and cancer while he was in medical school led him to develop a strong interest in the disease and, now, as an Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology at UT Southwestern, it has helped shape his patient care philosophy.

“I don’t just believe in short-term care but really developing a relationship with patients for long-term care so it doesn’t end when their treatment ends. I really try to follow up with them and be part of their survivorship process as well.”

“Having family members who have gone through cancer treatment and benefited from it reminds me to treat my patients the way I would want my family members treated,” Dr. Kim says. “That includes showing respect and compassion but also looking for every realistically possible option that’s out there for them.”

Especially for breast cancer, he says, there is a lot to consider.

“Depending on the patient’s specific diagnosis, there may be several viable options for treatment, and the field is constantly moving,” Dr. Kim says. “For example, should the patient consider a shorter course of radiation versus the historic standard? Should the patient consider a clinical trial or even the option of observation without therapy? Not everybody fits into a box. So, depending on the situation, patients may need more comprehensive discussion of their options.

“Part of my role is breaking things down for them and simplifying things to help them in their decision making as they go through this difficult time.”