George K. Philips, MD

Provider is directly employed by MedStar Health

George K. Philips, MBBS, MD, MPH, has extensive experience researching and treating cancers of the urinary tract (known as genitourinary cancers), including prostate, kidney, testicular, and bladder cancers, at the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and at the Hematology-Oncology Clinic at MedStar Washington Hospital Center (MWHC). Dr. Philips leads the genitourinary medical oncology program at MWHC and manages patient enrollment for the clinical trials associated with the program. He has chaired the MedStar Health Research Institute-Georgetown University Oncology Institutional Review Board Committee, which works to protect patients participating in cancer clinical trials across the MedStar Health Network. Dr. Philips is the principal investigator for many current genitourinary cancers.

Dr. Philips founded GUMDROP, a regional collaboration among specialists in radiation, medical and urologic oncology at academic centers in the Washington, D.C., region, to promote clinical trials. He serves as the vice-chair for Faculty Development and Subspecialty Training Programs in the Department of Medicine at Georgetown University. His research and educational skills, leadership in trainee and faculty development and clinical research collaborations have contributed to the clinical and research expertise offered by the MedStar Cancer Network.

Philosophy of Care
I believe the patient's interest comes first and that the physician's obligation is to seek and apply all available resources for the well being of the patient. This commitment includes offering information and guidance about participating in cancer clinical trials and providing moral support through treatment. I focus on both the patient and the family.

Secondly, I believe in working as a team with oncology nurses, social workers and staff to develop a comprehensive strategy to address all aspects of a patient's experience with cancer. I work to ensure that each patient receives a personalized cancer treatment plan that is safe and effective.

Lastly, I believe in being honest with patients about prognosis, the risks and benefits of evaluation and treatment and the potential impact their decisions may have on their quality of life. This approach requires listening carefully to patients and shared decision-making. I try to optimize my medical management to match my patient's goals for how he or she wishes to live successfully as a cancer survivor.