Older adults with cancer face unique challenges. These may include an increased risk of drug reactions, financial burdens, and caregiver stress. Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) is committed to providing older patients with the treatment, facilities, and support they need. We work with our patients’ primary care doctors to ensure that there is open communication about treatment and continuity of care.
The specialists in the Geriatric Service consult with MSK oncology teams on the treatment of their older patients. As geriatricians we are trained to look for subtleties in how older adults respond to cancer treatments. We advise on what precautions may need to be taken before, during, and after treatment, and can identify symptoms that are common in older adults but may present in unusual ways.
Both inpatients and outpatients can be referred to the Geriatric Service. We also offer a variety of educational programs to older adults and their caregivers and families.
Learn more about the programs at MSK and in the community.
Our Clinicians
- Sung Wu Sun, MD
- Koshy Alexander, MD
- Farnia Amirnia, MD
- Soo Jung Kim, ANP-BC
- Sincere McMilian, ANP-BC
- Maureen Healy, RN
- Melanie Harold, RN
- Heidi Yulico, GNP-BC
- Emily Eagan, RN
Cancer and Aging Interprofessional Team
Frailty assessment is an important marker of the older adult’s fitness for cancer treatment, independent of age. Pretreatment geriatric assessment is associated with improved mortality and morbidity outcomes but must occur in a time-sensitive manner to be useful for cancer treatment decision-making. The Geriatrics Service developed the Cancer and Aging Interdisciplinary Team (CAIT) clinic model to provide timely geriatric assessment and treatment recommendations independent of patient’s physical location.
The CAIT clinic model was developed utilizing the surge in telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. The core team consists of the patient’s oncologist, geriatrician, registered nurse, pharmacist, and registered dietitian. The clinic’s format is flexible, and the various assessments can be asynchronous. Patients choose the service method: in-person, remote, or hybrid. Based on the assessment’s outcomes, the geriatrician provides recommendations and arranges interventions. An assessment summary, including life expectancy estimates and chemotoxicity risk calculator scores, is conveyed to and discussed with the treating oncologist.
Educational Activities
The Geriatric Service offers courses and online modules to all healthcare professionals interested in the care of older adults with cancer. Visit Education and Training Programs to learn more about our educational opportunities.
Advanced Practice Provider (NP/PA) Oncology Fellowship: Geriatric Oncology Subspecialty Track
The Memorial Sloan Kettering Advanced Practice Provider Fellowship Geriatric Oncology Subspecialty Track is now accepting applications.
This subspecialty track trains advanced practice clinicians (nurse practitioners and physician assistants) in the care of older adults with cancer. No oncology experience is required, just a passion for caring for older adults! The fellowship is a 12-month post-graduate training program that provides support during the transition to practice period, allowing participants to build confidence and knowledge in oncology subspecialties. New graduates are welcome to apply but candidates must be eligible for both New York State licensure and board certification (where applicable). The program offers a stipend, employee benefits, and the eligibility to apply for MSK housing in NYC (although this is not a guarantee). The application deadline is Friday, May 3rd, 2024.