James Baer, M.D.

I believe that cancer care, and in Radiation Oncology specifically, should be centered on not just treating a patient’s disease, but in optimizing the patient’s well-being overall, and most importantly in preserving their quality of life. For most patients, lengthening quantity of life without improving their quality of life would not be very satisfying, and this makes improving quality of life one of the most important things we do.

Every patient is an individual with their own values and priorities, and what is ideal for one patient may not be what the next patient desires. I believe in shared decision-making, where we collaboratively determine what the patient really wants from their care. Then we design a personalized treatment plan that effectively targets their cancer while minimizing impact on their quality of life. Understanding is critical in cancer care. I am committed to providing clear, honest, and empathetic communication and to ensuring that my patients fully understand their diagnosis, treatment options, potential side effects and the rationale behind our treatment recommendations.

My ultimate goal is to empower patients to live their lives fully during and after treatment, ensuring that their journey through cancer care is defined by dignity, hope and the preservation of what matters most to them.

When I am not working, I am a believer in life’s simple pleasures. My wife and I have been married for over 30 years and we have three children, one of which is still living at the house, and two grandchildren. For some time alone, I like to ride my 2003 Harley-Davidson Road King which I purchased during the brand's 100th anniversary. There is something about riding down a country road with no one else around except for you and the Lord that has a very beneficial effect on re-centering one’s priorities and attitude. A motorcycle can also teach about the benefits of preventive maintenance, forethought, limits and other things that make for a truly enjoyable hobby.

Education

• Temple University School of Medicine

Internship

• Internal Medicine, Reading Hospital

Residency

• Radiation Oncology, Loma Linda University Medical Center

Certification

• American Board of Radiology

• Intensity-modulated radiation therapy treatment of multiple disease sites
• Stereotactic treatment of brain, lung, prostate and metastatic lesions