Samuel H. Whiting, MD, PhD
Harmonizing Patient Care and Clinical Research
Participating in the Medical Scientist Training Program at the University of Washington, Dr. Sam Whiting earned a Ph.D. in microbiology and a medical degree, followed by a residency in internal medicine.
After completing his four-year fellowship in medical oncology at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Dr. Whiting began his medical practice at SCCA and became an assistant professor of medicine and medical oncology at the University of Washington, as well as an assistant member of the clinical research division at the Hutchinson Center.
Dr. Whiting’s initial focus was on laboratory research aimed at how patient data informs medical research. He studied how retroviruses such as the HIV virus replicate within cells and assemble new viruses to invade other cells. His work provided early evidence for a novel mechanism in the replication process.
As his medical training continued, Dr. Whiting’s interests and concerns began gravitating toward what he calls, “the more humanistic and personal side of medicine.” Though still very interested in research, he now focuses on research that directly touches the lives of his patients and keeps him active in patient care. “This change in focus was absolutely the right choice,” says Dr. Whiting, “and I am very glad to be practicing at SCCA.”
Dr. Whiting’s foremost goal is to continue developing a medical practice devoted to patient care and forging trusting relationships with his patients. “To me, medical oncology is the closest specialty to primary care medicine,” he explains. “Fundamental to quality treatment is the trusting relationship I share with my patients. I want them to truly believe in me and know that I believe in them. I want all my patients to feel that I am wholly invested in them and emotionally available to them and their loved ones. I am continually—daily—amazed at their human strength and resiliency. I see such love and commitment in these families. It is a humbling experience and a great honor to care for cancer patients.”
Dr. Whiting remains involved in leading-edge clinical research at SCCA that brings the best science to patient care. “I feel lucky to be collaborating with world-class scientists at UW Medical Center and the Hutchinson Center. We aim to bring the very best of basic science to our patients.”
Samuel H. Whiting, MD, PhD
Dr. Whiting cares for people who have colon, pancreatic, and liver cancer, working in partnership with them to treat their disease. Read more about Dr. Whiting and his work at SCCA.Patient Care Philosophy:
I approach cancer treatment as a true and devoted partnership with the patient. I bring to the partnership state-of-the-art knowledge, dedication to improving the treatment of cancer, and deeply compassionate care of the individual. I strive to educate and empower my patients to take an active and confident role in their own healing. I enjoy working with families and other loved ones in a team approach to cancer care.
Title
- Assistant Professor, Department of Medical Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine
- Assistant Member, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
Clinical Expertise:
Clinical trials, liver and lung metastases, chemoradiotherapy, neoadjuvant treatment approaches, adjuvant chemotherapy and surveillance
Education And Training:
- BS, Honors in Chemistry: Lewis and Clark College, Portland, OR, 1989
- MD and PhD: Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1999
- Residency, Internal Medicine: University of Washington, 1999-2001
- Fellowship, Medical Oncology: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 2001-2005
More Information:
For more information about Dr. Samuel Whiting's clinical and research expertise, click here.