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Perry Cook, MD, chief of hematology and oncology and vice chairman of internal medicine at New York Methodist Hospital.

New York Methodist Hospital (NYM) recently welcomed Perry Cook, MD, as its new chief of hematology and oncology and vice chairman of internal medicine. Dr. Cook came to the Hospital from NYU Langone Medical Center, where he served for almost two decades as attending oncologist and director of the adult hematopoietic stem cell transplant program. Dr. Cook now directs New York Methodist's Division of Hematology/Oncology and ambulatory infusion (chemotherapy) center.

"I was drawn to the field of hematology and oncology by the urgency of the need for more effective cancer treatment," said Dr. Cook. "I've always been highly interested in cancer biology, including the mechanisms by which cancer evolves and progresses. But above all, I wanted the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients. For me, it is incredibly satisfying work."

This is a particularly dynamic time in the field of oncology, Dr. Cook emphasized. "Rapid progress in identifying mechanisms of disease is allowing for the development of new drugs and treatments to precisely 'target' an increasing number of cancers. These new treatments are not only powerful and effective but also have less adverse side-effects than previous options. We must make every effort to speed this progress and I'm thrilled that my colleagues at NYM feel the same way."

Dr. Cook's professional medical career began with his internal medicine and hematology oncology training at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Prior to joining NYU Langone, Dr. Cook was the chief of the lymphoma program at the Westchester County Medical Center, and also served as chief of hematology and oncology at the Brooklyn Hospital Center and at St. Peter's Medical Center.

"Dr. Cook is a national figure in cancer care," said Stephen Peterson, MD, chairman of NYM's Department of Internal Medicine. "But just as important, he is one of the kindest, most compassionate physicians that you will ever see take care of a patient. We're proud to have him directing oncology at New York Methodist."

The Institute for Cancer Care at New York Methodist Hospital brings together a group of specialists and medical services to provide comprehensive cancer diagnosis and treatment. To find a physician affiliated with the Institute, call 866-411-ONCO (866-411-6626).