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Evaluating Standard of Care in Oncology: What Attorneys Need to Know

In the realm of oncology, the standard of care is a critical concept that underpins medical practice and malpractice litigation. For attorneys handling oncology malpractice cases, understanding the nuances of the standard of care is essential. This article will delve into what constitutes the standard of care in oncology, how it is determined, and the role of an expert medical oncologist in evaluating deviations from this standard.


What is the Standard of Care in Oncology?

The standard of care in oncology refers to the level and type of care that a reasonably competent and skilled health care professional, with a similar background and in the same medical community, would have provided under similar circumstances. It encompasses:

  • Diagnosis: Accurate and timely identification of cancer through appropriate use of diagnostic tools and tests.
  • Treatment: Administration of accepted therapeutic interventions, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and newer modalities like immunotherapy and targeted therapy.
  • Follow-Up: Regular monitoring of the patient’s progress, management of side effects, and adjustments to treatment as necessary.

Determining the Standard of Care

Several factors influence the determination of the standard of care in oncology:

  • Medical Guidelines: National and international guidelines, such as those from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) or American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), provide benchmarks for standard care practices.
  • Peer Practices: What is commonly practiced by peers in the same field and geographical area. This is what most reasonable oncologist would do given similar circumstances. There may be more than one reasonable approach however some approaches can be definitively unreasonable.
  • Clinical Trials and Research: Latest findings from clinical research and trials that may set new standards for treatment. Often looking at the standard of care treatment arm of an ongoing randomized clinical trial can demonstrate current treatments hence the rationale to test “experimental” or “investigational” treatments against the standard of care.
  • Expert Consensus: Opinions and consensus among experienced oncology professionals. Occasionally, there are rare tumor types where the evidence of care is limited to case reports, case series and expert opinions at large institutions with a significant experience in treating the rare tumor type.

The Role of an Expert Medical Oncologist

In malpractice litigation, an expert medical oncologist plays a pivotal role in evaluating whether the standard of care was met. Here’s how:

  1. Reviewing Medical Records:
  • Comprehensive examination of patient records, including pathology reports, imaging studies, treatment protocols, and follow-up notes.
  • Identifying any lapses or deviations from accepted medical practices.
  1. Assessing Diagnostic Accuracy:
  • Determining if appropriate diagnostic tests were ordered and correctly interpreted.
  • Evaluating if the diagnosis was made in a timely manner, allowing for prompt treatment.
  1. Evaluating Treatment Decisions:
  • Assessing the suitability of the chosen treatment regimen based on the patient’s specific cancer type, stage, and overall health.
  • Checking for adherence to established guidelines and whether the treatment was administered correctly.
  • Discussion at a multi-disciplinary conference with consensus opinion is a strong evidence approach with multiple physicians in agreement with a stated diagnostic or treatment approach at the institution as opposed to one individual opinion managing a patient as a Lone Ranger.
  1. Monitoring and Follow-Up:
  • Ensuring that the patient’s progress was adequately monitored and documented.
  • Evaluating if any necessary adjustments to treatment were made promptly based on patient response.
  1. Providing Expert Testimony:
  • Offering clear, unbiased opinions during depositions and trials.
  • Explaining complex medical concepts in an understandable manner for the court.
  • It is always best to ensure both the retaining attorney and expert witness are on the same page regarding opinions and concept understanding.

Common Deviations from the Standard of Care in Oncology

Certain actions or omissions can constitute a deviation from the standard of care, including:

  • Delayed Diagnosis: Failure to recognize and diagnose cancer promptly, leading to progression of the disease.
  • Improper Treatment: Using outdated or inappropriate treatment protocols that do not align with current guidelines.
  • Inadequate Follow-Up: Not adequately monitoring the patient’s response to treatment or failing to address side effects and complications in a timely manner.

Importance for Attorneys

For malpractice attorneys, understanding the standard of care in oncology is crucial for several reasons:

  • Case Evaluation: Assessing the merits of a case based on whether the standard of care was breached.
  • Building a Strong Case: Leveraging expert testimony to establish a deviation from the standard of care and its impact on the patient.
  • Effective Cross-Examination: Challenging opposing expert witnesses by highlighting inconsistencies or deviations from established medical practices.

The standard of care in oncology is a cornerstone of medical practice and malpractice litigation. For attorneys, a deep understanding of this concept, coupled with insights from expert medical oncologists, is essential for effectively handling oncology malpractice cases. By comprehensively reviewing medical records, assessing diagnostic and treatment decisions, and providing clear expert testimony, an oncology expert can significantly bolster a legal case, ensuring that justice is served and medical standards are upheld.


By partnering with experienced medical oncologists, attorneys can navigate the complexities of oncology malpractice cases with confidence, ensuring that their clients receive the thorough and expert representation they deserve.

Dr. Sajeve Thomas is a distinguished medical professional and a compassionate guide in the field of oncology. With over a decade of dedicated experience as a board-certified medical oncologist/internal medicine specialist, Dr. Thomas has become a trusted expert in the treatment of melanoma, sarcoma, and gastrointestinal conditions. Currently practicing at the renowned Orlando Health Cancer Institute, he brings a wealth of expertise to the complex and challenging world of oncology.

The Role of an Expert Medical Oncologist in Malpractice Case Review: A Methodological Approach

As a medical oncologist with extensive experience in both clinical practice and medico-legal consulting, I understand the critical role that expert testimony plays in malpractice litigation. Attorneys representing either the defense or the plaintiff need a thorough, unbiased, and professional review of the medical records to build a compelling case. Here, I outline my methodology for reviewing a malpractice case and highlight the key aspects that make my approach valuable to legal professionals.


Comprehensive Review of Medical Records

When engaged to review a malpractice case, my first step is a meticulous examination of all relevant medical records. This includes:

  • Pathology Reports: Assessing the accuracy and timeliness of pathological diagnoses.
  • Radiology Reports: Evaluating imaging studies for correct interpretation and timely communication of findings.
  • Clinical Notes: Reviewing physician notes for consistency, accuracy, and adherence to standard care protocols.
  • Procedural Documentation: Examining surgical and procedural notes for indications, execution, and follow-up care.
  • Timing and Sequence of Events: Constructing a timeline to understand the chronological order and appropriateness of medical interventions.

Methodical Clipping and Organization

To ensure a coherent and comprehensive review, I compile all pertinent information into a PowerPoint presentation. This includes:

  • Clipped Documents: Key excerpts from medical records, annotated with my observations and relevant context.
  • Visual Timelines: Graphical representations of the sequence of medical events and interventions.
  • Summary Slides: Clear, concise slides summarizing my overall impressions and the critical points of the case.

Objective Analysis for Both Sides

Whether retained by the defense or the plaintiff, my objective is to provide an impartial analysis based on medical facts. My process includes:

  • Defense Considerations: Identifying strengths in the medical care provided, adherence to standards, and potential mitigating factors.
  • Plaintiff Considerations: Highlighting deviations from standard care, potential lapses in judgment, and their impact on patient outcomes.

Commitment to Truth and Integrity

The cornerstone of my practice is a commitment to finding the truth, regardless of which side retains me. This approach ensures:

  • Unbiased Testimony: My conclusions are based solely on medical evidence, maintaining credibility and integrity.
  • Professional Ethics: Upholding the highest ethical standards by providing honest, fact-based opinions.

Qualities Valued by Attorneys

Attorneys seeking an expert medical oncology witness will find several qualities in my approach that are particularly valuable:

  • Thoroughness: A comprehensive review process that leaves no stone unturned.
  • Clarity: The ability to distill complex medical information into clear, understandable terms for legal professionals and juries.
  • Experience: Extensive clinical experience in oncology, ensuring informed and credible opinions.
  • Communication Skills: Proficiency in presenting findings in a structured, persuasive manner.
  • Objectivity: A commitment to unbiased, evidence-based conclusions, reinforcing the credibility of the testimony.

The meticulous and systematic approach I employ in reviewing malpractice cases ensures that attorneys receive a detailed, objective analysis, crucial for constructing a robust legal argument. My dedication to finding the truth and upholding professional ethics makes me a reliable and respected expert witness in the field of medical oncology.

For attorneys looking to strengthen their malpractice cases with expert oncology testimony, my methodical process and unwavering commitment to integrity provide the foundation for a compelling and credible case.


Dr. Sajeve Thomas is a distinguished medical professional and a compassionate guide in the field of oncology. With over a decade of dedicated experience as a board-certified medical oncologist/internal medicine specialist, Dr. Thomas has become a trusted expert in the treatment of melanoma, sarcoma, and gastrointestinal conditions. Currently practicing at the renowned Orlando Health Cancer Institute, he brings a wealth of expertise to the complex and challenging world of oncology.

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