“I believe the most important component
of treatment is empathy and that is the
basis of everything I do.”
Being diagnosed with cancer is a lifechanging event, leaving many patients feeling like their life is getting out of control. At the same time, patients are presented with complex diagnoses and treatments that are confusing.
As an oncologist, Dr. Bilal Naqvi works to make sure this doesn’t happen.
“I really make an effort to explain things to my patients in a way that helps them understand what is going on,” he said. “I think if my patients can at least understand what diagnosis they have and what is being done to treat it, it gives them that little sense of control that helps them deal with it better.”
Dr. Naqvi is excited about the many advances in cancer care, including treating patients with immunotherapy and precision medicine, but he continues to believe that empathy and the personal touch is still the most important thing in treating these patients.
“The time I spend in the room with my patient is the most treasured time I enjoy,” Dr. Naqvi said. “Even now I don’t take my computer into the room because I think that time is sacred and I want to spend that time talking to the patient rather than looking at a screen.”
Dr. Naqvi completed his residency and fellowship at the University of Connecticut – Health Center in Farmington before coming to Marshfield Clinic Health System.