Introduce yourself and what your role is at UW Health?

My name is Ben Durkee. I am a radiation oncologist at UW Health in Northern Illinois. In cancer care, many people know about surgeons and medical oncology. Radiation is the third leg of that tripod. We treat with high energy x-rays to kill the cancer or make sure it doesn’t come back. The technology is incredible. We can track tumors inside the body in real time and account for respiratory motion to treat within a tolerance of millimeters. There’s nothing else like it.

What makes the cancer center unique?

Lots. One of the newest developments is the degree to which we are integrated with UW Health in Madison as we are part of the same health care system. We have UW Health-Madison providers that see patients in our Northern Illinois clinic on a regular basis. We call and video call each other regularly. Radiation oncology is particularly integrated because everything is digital. If I have a challenging radiation case, the subspecialized experts in Madison can review it before we treat. We do this routinely. With the integrated collaboration, we can deliver the high quality radiation of a large academic center right here at our Northern Illinois cancer center making it convenient and close to home for our patients.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

One aspect of cancer care that is really special is having the privilege to be part of someone’s journey. I realize the expression is a bit tired but it’s really true. Having cancer changes a person. I admire individuals who rise to the challenge. For many, there is a special mindfulness that replaces the background noise and day-to-day worries. Caring for these individuals teaches me to be a better doctor, a better friend, a better husband and a better dad.

How do you feel about patients wanting second opinions?

Do it! Some patients assume that asking for a second opinion conveys lack of confidence in the primary opinion. It’s quite the opposite. Doctors are life-long learners. The cases that are most interesting to me are those in which my opinion differs from that of my colleagues. By the way, many patients get second opinions without even knowing it. I discuss cases with other doctors multiple times per day. Sometimes it’s over the phone or onsite in my office. Sometimes it’s in a multidisciplinary conference. Sometimes it’s as a second opinion consult. Humility and collaboration are a super important part of our culture.

Learn more about Pink Month with UW Health HERE