Psychiatry
I enjoy helping people navigate through difficult challenges and maximize their quality of life. A lot of people ask me if it’s depressing to work in the cancer field. I don’t find it depressing at all. I find it really inspirational to see how strong and courageous people can be in the face of adversity. I really feel strongly that in addition to treating the cancer, it’s important to care for the whole person.
One challenge and barrier to people receiving psychosocial care is that it tends to be fragmented and separate from other aspects of oncology care. The Integrated Psychosocial Oncology Program (IPOP) at Fred Hutch is unique among cancer centers in its goal to incorporate population-based, patient-centered psychosocial care into routine cancer care. IPOP represents a team-based collaborative approach where I am working with the patient’s care team as well as with clinical oncology social workers and other support services, all of whom provide treatment for the patient on site at Fred Hutch. The IPOP model has been so successful that I am working with a number of organizations to help other cancer centers implement a similar program.
Area of Clinical Practice
Psychiatry and psychology
The psychiatrists and psychologists on our team at Fred Hutch each acts as a coach to help patients during treatment. There is still stigma, and some people unfortunately think it’s a sign of weakness if they feel depressed or they’re not being positive enough. I decided to become a psychiatrist because I’m able to get to know my patients in great depth. I also think there is great opportunity and immense clinical and scientific potential in the field.
English
Taiwanese
Undergraduate Degree
Stanford University
Medical Degree
Northwestern University Medical School
Residency
University of Washington Hospitals, Psychiatry
Fellowship
University of Washington Hospitals, Psychiatry Research
Board Certification
Psychiatry, 1994, 2015, American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology
Other
Internship, Columbus Hospital, Transitional
Seattle magazine's 2021 Top Doctors award
Dr. Fann has been recognized as a Top Doctor in this peer-nominated award multiple years in a row.
At Fred Hutch, you receive care from a team of providers with extensive experience in your disease. Your team includes physicians, a patient care coordinator, a registered nurse, an advanced practice provider and others, based on your needs. You also have access to experts like registered dietitians, social workers, acupuncturists, psychiatrists and more who specialize in supporting people with cancer or blood disorders.
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