Clinical trials are top of mind for Abhisek Swaika, MD, including how to improve access and build an infrastructure of care that patients seek, especially in the community setting.
As interim medical director of New York City-based Northwell Cancer Institute at Rego Park, Dr. Swaika said helping patients and staying on top of the "evolving and intellectually stimulating cancer science" is what gets him up early every day.
He told Becker's is most excited about the role artificial intelligence will play in cancer care. Although he is intrigued about the implications on diagnosis and cancer treatment, the effect on clinical trials has piqued his attention most acutely.
"I think clinical research will be the most important way AI will impact cancer care," Dr. Swaika said. "It can do earlier screening of more trial patients and get them enrolled faster, and follow that process and progress during the clinical trial."
Dr. Swaika is passionate about not just providing the standard treatments of today, but designing the care of the future.
"If you have good clinical trials, caring physicians and a comprehensive group of cancer care providers who are motivated to help … if you build it, patients will come," he said. "They will reach out to you because you have the infrastructure to better serve patients."
Dr. Swaika also works to lead by example. Not only does he provide patient care and leadership to the center, but he volunteers his time to go into the community. After hours, he gives speeches at local community centers and participates in screening and awareness campaigns.