Medical Director of KCH Cancer Care Center Musaberk Goksel has been with the center for almost seven year and is looking forward to its growth with his goal being to better impact the lives of cancer patients, even those he does not personal treat. (Photo provided)

Medical Director of the KCH Cancer Care Center, Musaberk Goksel, MD, FACP, will have been with the center for seven years this October. He noted, “Seven years ago, I had just completed training in Vermont and wanted to come back to the Midwest.”

In particular, Goksel wanted to be near Chicago, where he had lived previously, so he looked at positions in Illinois. But while interviewing, he and his wife liked the Kosciusko County community.

After considering several options, Goksel decided that KCH Cancer Care Center was the right fit.

Goskel specializes and is board certified in medical oncology, hematology and internal medicine. Recently, he was recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Physicians for his accomplishments and achievements in his field of internal medicine, oncology and hematology.

During Goksel’s time as medical director, the KCH Cancer Care Center has formed a strong vision for its future to further assist cancer patients throughout their individualized treatment. “There have been structural changes with the reassignment of certain roles,” stated Goksel.

“We have what we call ‘working managers’ who intricately know a patient’s status as they directly participate in the patient’s care plan. Being familiar with every patient helps in delivering prompt, cohesive care,” said Goksel.

Hugh Gerard, CMD, RT, serves as the new administrative director of the KCH Cancer Care Center while continuing his work as a dosimetrist. Other role changes include Jennifer Young, who was promoted to clinical manager over infusion chemotherapy and Teresa VanGundy, who was appointed the office manager. “These recent changes were made within the month, and so far it is working well,” Goksel said.

The center is envisioning the addition of a second medical oncologist. “With a partnering oncologist, we will be able to expand our services, particularly in-patient care,” Goksel said. “I have a special interest in research that can impact current patients and future generations. We want to expand clinical trials while we currently participate in research. This takes much concentration.”

The KCH Cancer Care Center is currently an Indiana University Hoosier Oncology Group site, meaning local patients from the center can be enrolled in clinical trials without having to travel to sites like Indianapolis. Data is then collected centrally by H.O.G. With the additional oncologist, the center will been able to host clinical trials which require attention.

“To deliver experimental therapies in the community will be a major benefit,” said Goksel.
Additionally, Goksel stated, “Our goal is to expand our service area to help others in outlying communities perhaps in our secondary service areas.”

Continuing with the theme of growth, two new radiation oncologists, Dr. Nathan Comsia and Dr. Mark Ranck, joined the KCH Cancer Care Center team as partners from Radiation Oncology Associates.

Goksel is excited about the future of the KCH Cancer Care Center, especially with the chance to initiate academic work through clinical trials. He noted if the medicines are successful in the trials it provides hope for cancer patients.

Goksel said, “Clinical research helps cancer patients. It is a personal goal, and hopefully I can make an impact on other cancer patients beyond my own.”