Closing The Gap Between Ocular Oncologists: Introducing OMG (Oncology Mentoring Group)

Why is ocular oncology an unusual subspecialty in medicine? It is unusual because standards of care vary between institutions and between ophthalmologists who practice ocular oncology. At one center, enucleation (removal of the eye) may be recommended, at another center, brachytherapy plaque may be recommended. One doctor may recommend continued observation because the tumor is located in the macula (the area of the retina responsible for central vision), another doctor may recommend enucleation for macula-involving melanomas because the central vision may be damaged. This is just the tip of the clinical variability iceberg. Furthermore, there are many ocular oncologists who are 5 years or less into their clinical practices. Given how rare ocular tumors are, one doctor's experience may be much less than a colleague who has been practicing longer. What can be done to help all patients benefit, not just those who find themselves in the care of someone more experienced? Introducing OMG - Oncology Mentoring Group. This monthly informal Zoom meeting will launch next week. I look forward to hosting this consortium to which all ocular oncologists regardless of experience have been invited. The more senior participants will also have a forum to share their collective wisdom. The mission of OMG is to accelerate the learing curve in ocular oncology so that one doesn't have to wait until they are 10 or more years in practice to feel comfortable managing complex situations. Ultimately, I hope this endeavor will elevate patient care so that ocular melanoma patients can benefit from a more connected community of physicians.  For Tara McCannel's resources (including webinar links and link to my book!), visit my website: https://seyhart.com/ocularmelanoma Welcome to Finding Your Way with Ocular Melanoma, a guide to understanding everything there is to know about your experience with this rare cancer. Learn through the lens of my knowledge and clinical experience as a physician expert and passionate patient advocate. The more you know about ocular melanoma, the better you will do, and the better you will live. Let's go! The content shared on the Finding Your Way with Ocular Melanoma podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided must not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. As a listener, you are responsible for your own health-related decisions and must consider consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.  Tara McCannel MD PhD is a an ocular oncologist, vitreoretinal surgeon and co-founder of Seyhart Wellness. She is also the host of the Mind Body MD podcast where she shares her passion for holistic health and wellness.