Teresa S. Kim, MD

Why did you choose oncology?

As a child, I watched one of my family members battle and ultimately pass away from throat cancer. Decades later, I am still moved by his and others’ suffering, humbled by the power of medicine and surgery, captivated by cancer biology and committed to a career that integrates these into one. I am grateful for the tremendous privilege we are given as cancer doctors to serve people facing life-threatening illness.

What’s your approach to care?

I work and live by the core values of excellence and compassion, every day. My specific role as your cancer surgeon is to counsel you and your family about your diagnosis, help you navigate challenging treatment decisions and use my technical expertise to help achieve the best possible outcomes.

Provider Background

Specialty: Surgery

Area of clinical practice

Skin cancers

Skin cancers, melanomas, sarcomas and gastrointestinal cancers

I am a surgical oncologist and UW assistant professor of surgery with expertise in the surgical management of sarcomas, skin and other soft tissue and gastrointestinal cancers. I am also a scientist who studies tumors to look for new potential treatment targets. My research interests include translational research and sarcoma and gastrointestinal tumor immunology. I am particularly interested in the body’s immune response to different subtypes of sarcoma and new treatment approaches that combine standard therapies — such as surgery, radiation and chemotherapy — with novel treatments, such as immunotherapy. I’m part of the multidisciplinary team of experts that comes together to provide outstanding, individualized care for you. Top cancer care starts with an expert team equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and skills, sound judgment and 100 percent commitment to you. At Fred Hutch, we work together as a team to provide you with the best quality care.