In this episode of the Optimal Health Podcast, host Pete Waggoner is joined by Dr. Timothy Toonen of Minnesota Oncology to share his expertise and knowledge about cancer care. They discuss the role oncologists play in helping cancer patients find the right treatment options while alleviating the fear that comes along with a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Toonen also talks about how his team plans on providing the people of Hudson with even more comprehensive care through their new facility at the Hudson Medical Center which will be opening its doors to the public this January 12, 2023.
Takeaways:
In this episode:
[2:19] Pete Waggoner asks Dr. Timothy Toonen to talk about his early life and what led him to become an oncologist. Dr. Toonen shares how meeting a group of community-based oncologists has inspired him to pursue a career in cancer care.
[5:36] Dr. Toonen defines oncology and explains the role oncologists like him play in helping cancer patients find non-surgical and non-radiation care options and curate treatment plans that best fit the patient’s needs.
[11:03] Pete and Dr. Toonen talk about how cancer treatment has evolved over the years and how there are now better supportive care medications tailored especially for patients with fear of getting chemotherapy.
[14:25] Dr. Toonen provides insight into Minnesota Oncology's comprehensive, full-circle care and how the new Hudson Medical Center can help its team provide the appropriate treatments to patients all within the Hudson area.
[18:00] Dr. Toonen talks about how their team along with other healthcare providers such as Associate Eye Care and Twin Cities Orthopedics are eager to bring independent, physician-driven healthcare practices to the Hudson community through the new medical center.
Resources
Quotes
"We might not have all the answers, certainly a lot of times we don't on the first visit. But I think it gives patients a sense that we care." - Timothy Toonen, MD