Life of an Oncologist after COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

 Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID - 19) crisis led to a significant strain on oncological services with reallocation of resources towards Coronavirus infection. Assessment of the risk-benefit ratio and prioritization of cancer patients was necessary. In the absence of a vaccine, drug or presence of a herd immunity (as a result of disease transmission), it was a like a double-edged sword for cancer patients, where they had to choose between either an increasing risk of infection transmission or a delay in cancer treatment for mitigation of Coronavirus infection. Academic activities, trainings, examinations (theoretical/practical) and all research activities were put on hold. Timely delivery of surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy was delayed even for patients with curative cancer. Current pandemic offered an opportunity towards increasing the awareness and adoption of virtual technological innovations to interact and educate, formulate clinical guidelines, researching newer modalities and drugs and promoting a great sense of mutual understanding and collaboration among healthcare workers all over the globe.