The privileges and the responsibilities of a surgical oncologist

A surgical oncologist should teach at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, play a leadership role in oncology in either the community hospital or in an academic institution, encourage or participate in basic or clinical oncologic research, and foster interdisciplinary cooperation with the other oncologic specialists. The surgical oncologist should take an active role in educating the general surgical community through programs of the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. Professional recognition of Surgical Oncology should be secured through the examination of surgical oncologists. The privilege of being a surgical oncologist carries with it the responsibility of recognition, certification, increased research effort and team involvement for optimal cancer care.