Kent E. Wallner, MD
Kent E. Wallner, MD
- Physician, Fred Hutch
- Associate Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine
- Physician, UW Medicine
Radiation Oncology
“I believe in thoughtful, informed communication and being readily available to answer questions. ”
— Dr. Wallner
Why do you specialize in radiation oncology?
When I was a medical student, radiation oncology was not a popular specialty. Many people believed it would be made obsolete with the introduction of newer chemotherapy drugs. I was recruited into radiation oncology because there was a need to develop future experts. Contrary to prevailing wisdom at the time, today radiation therapy is a critical part of treatment for many types of cancer.
How do you like to work with patients?
I focus on talking each patient through their medical situation and discussing the pros and cons of radiation therapy. Having a firm grasp of what’s happening — whether the news is good, bad or somewhere in between — can bring a measure of relief and help patients make choices that are right for them. I believe in thoughtful, informed communication and being readily available to answer questions.
Provider Background
Specialty: Radiation Oncology
Gynecologic cancers, prostate cancer
I am a board-certified radiation oncologist and an expert in brachytherapy — the placement of small radioactive implants in the body to deliver high, localized radiation doses. I have been publishing brachytherapy research for more than 25 years. My expertise includes treating patients for gynecologic cancer and prostate cancer. I also work with patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation and cardiac reperfusion, a therapy that restores blood flow to the heart following a heart attack.
Diseases Treated
Languages
English
Education, Experience and Certifications
Undergraduate Degree
Miami University, Oxford, Ohio
Medical Degree
Ohio State University College of Medicine
Residency
University of California, San Francisco, Radiation Oncology
Board Certification
Radiation Oncology, American Board of Radiology
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