Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute Appoints Richard McDonough, MD Director of Patient Advocacy

Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, LLC (FCS) has appointed medical oncologist and hematologist Richard McDonough, MD as Director of Patient Advocacy for the statewide practice. He will lead efforts to ensure cancer patients have ready access to affordable, high-quality cancer care in their local communities. In collaboration with FCS colleagues and senior leaders, he will provide insights to legislators, government agencies and payors on public policy issues that are vital to optimizing the quality and value of the cancer care delivery system.

Lucio N. Gordan, MD, FCS president & managing physician, said, “Besides being an excellent physician and a dedicated member of our cancer care team in the Pasco County community, Dr McDonough is recognized for many achievements in patient advocacy in the field of community oncology. His superior efforts have improved access to cancer care not only in Florida, but nationwide.”

Throughout his career, Dr McDonough has played a leadership role in advocating on behalf of cancer patients. He is a long-standing active member of the Florida Society of Clinical Oncology (FLASCO). He served as FLASCO President from 2017 to 2019 and as the FLASCO representative to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) State Affiliate Committee for several years. He has also served on the FLASCO Board of Directors and currently serves FLASCO Director of Fellow Initiatives and as Chair of the Nominating Committee. Dr McDonough is also a member of the Government Affairs Committee for the Community Oncology Alliance.

“As a recognized national leader, we at FCS are proud of our commitment and track record of affecting positive change in cancer care delivery and clinical research,” said FCS Chief Executive Officer Nathan H. Walcker. “Dr McDonough is well equipped to represent our practice as we engage in policy, patient advocacy and payment reform efforts that are so vital to the patients we serve.”

Board-certified in oncology, Hematology and internal medicine, Dr McDonough earned his medical degree from the University of Miami, where he also completed his residency training in internal medicine at Jackson Memorial Hospital. He completed a fellowship in hematology/oncology at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. He has extensive experience in clinical research with a focus on cervical spine conditions, treatments and surgical reconstruction.