"Fred Hutch Cancer Center" "Cures Start Here"

Lauren C. Shih, MD

Provider

Lauren C. Shih, MD

Physician, Fred Hutch
Assistant Professor, Clinical Research Division, Fred Hutch
Assistant Professor, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine

Specialty:

Medical Oncology

South Lake Union Clinic

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“I am passionate about making cancer care accessible to all patients regardless of their background. I believe everyone deserves access to high-quality treatment, including the latest therapies and clinical trials.”

— Dr. Shih

What brought you to oncology and what do you value about your work?

I was initially drawn to oncology because it combines science with the privilege of caring for patients during pivotal and challenging moments of their lives. My interest in head and neck cancers stems from a desire to address disparities in care and outcomes. Many patients face not only complex treatments, but also profound challenges to their quality of life.

Through research, I aim to reduce disparities and improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with head and neck cancers. I’m inspired by the resilience of my patients and motivated by the potential to drive meaningful improvements in their cancer experience.

What do you hope it’s like for a patient to work with you? How have you been personally impacted by cancer?

My approach to care is centered on partnership. I believe in collaborating with patients to design a treatment plan that aligns with their goals and priorities and clearly explaining recommendations so we have a shared understanding of the path forward. Listening to patients is at the heart of my practice. I want to understand each person’s concerns, preferences and needs to provide the best care possible.

During my medical training, my grandmother was diagnosed with lung cancer. Her experience of being supported by a compassionate oncology team and the love of her family taught me the importance of honoring a patient’s preferences and wishes. This experience reinforced my belief in the value of listening to patients and their families and making sure care is not only effective but also aligned with what matters most to them. My grandmother’s story continues to guide my work as I strive to provide empathetic, patient-centered care.

Provider Background

Area of Clinical Practice
Medical oncology, head and neck cancer, lung cancer

I am a board-certified medical oncologist and clinical researcher who sees patients at the South Lake Union Clinic.

As a medical oncologist, I specialize primarily in the treatment of patients with head and neck cancers. I am also involved in clinical research, including interventional clinical trials for patients with head and neck cancers. As a health services researcher, I focus on improving access to and quality of cancer care, with an emphasis on reducing disparities. I am also dedicated to improving cancer care for older adults, who often have unique priorities and treatment needs. My goal is to make sure every patient receives care that is tailored to their individual circumstances so they can make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcome.

In treating cancer, I prioritize managing symptoms, preserving function and enhancing quality of life. A cancer diagnosis is life-changing, not only for patients but also for their families, and I am committed to supporting everyone throughout the experience.

Diseases Treated

Head and Neck Cancers

Medullary Thyroid Cancer

Salivary Gland Cancer

Languages

English

Education, Experience and Certifications

Undergraduate Degree
Stanford University

Medical Degree
University of Utah School of Medicine

Residency
University of Washington School of Medicine, Internal Medicine

Fellowship
University of Washington School of Medicine/Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Hematology and Oncology

Board Certification
Internal Medicine, 2020; Medical Oncology, 2024; Hematology, 2024; American Board of Internal Medicine

We make promising new treatments available to you through studies called clinical trials led by Fred Hutch physicians. Many of these trials at Fred Hutch have led to FDA-approved treatments and have improved standards of care globally. Together, you and your physician can decide if a study is right for you.

View Clinical Trials

Many of our Fred Hutch physicians conduct ongoing research to improve standards of patient care. Their work is evaluated by other physicians and selected for publication to the United States National Library of Medicine, the largest medical library in the world. See scientific papers this Fred Hutch physician has written.

View Dr. Shih's Publications

Your Care Team

At Fred Hutch, you receive care from a team of providers with extensive experience in your disease. Your team includes physicians, a patient care coordinator, a registered nurse, an advanced practice provider and others, based on your needs. You also have access to experts like registered dietitians, social workers, acupuncturists, psychiatrists and more who specialize in supporting people with cancer or blood disorders.

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Fred Hutch accepts most national private health insurance plans as well as Medicare. We also accept Medicaid for people from Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho. We are working to ensure that everyone, no matter what their financial situation, has access to the care they need.

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