Oncologist Spotlight: Dr. Maria Tria Tirona

Meet Maria Tria Tirona, MD, FACP

Division Chief Hematology/Oncology; Professor of Medicine, JCESOM and Director of Medical Oncology, ECCC

Tell us about your role at Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center.

"I oversee the medical oncology practice at Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center (ECCC), serve as Principal Investigator of the Adult Clincal Research trials program at ECCC, and also oversee the Hematology/Oncology academic fellowship as the program director at the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine."

How do you work with others on your team to provide the best breast cancer care?

"I am the lead breast medical oncologist who works collaboratively with our multidisciplinary team of breast surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, radiologists and other supportive staff. My role is to provide the best possible systemic therapy options for breast cancer patients to prevent cancer recurrence after surgery or to prolong and improve the patient’s quality of life for those who have advanced breast cancer."

What is one thing you wish our community knew about ECCC and its breast cancer teams’ comprehensive approach to care?

"There are now many promising options available for patients with breast cancer especially those with advanced incurable disease. Most recently is the use of immunotherapy for triple negative breast cancers as well as targeted therapies for other types of breast cancer. Breast cancer is such a heterogeneous and complicated disease that really requires a multidisciplinary approach. Fortunately, the ECCC has such excellent and dynamic team that works closely together to ensure timely treatment approach to our breast cancer patients. We provide the best possible care with utmost compassion and dedication to ensure excellent quality care."

Have you or anyone you know personally affected by breast cancer and if so, would you like to share their story?

"My best friend died of breast cancer several years ago. This has made me relate more and understand more on what my patients go through and address their issues and concerns more effectively."

What’s your favorite part of your job?

"Working with the finest and compassionate physician group, nursing staff and other supportive staff. This is one of the very important reasons on why I have been in this insititution for more than 20 years."