In this episode, Akanksha shares how a patient under her care became the inspiration for her work in palliative medicine. She shares her perspective on the need for doctors to have “the conversation” with patients facing a terminal illness and their families.
Akanksha Sharma, MD, is board-certified in neurology, neuro-oncology, and palliative medicine. She is experienced in treating primary/metastatic brain tumors, neurological complications of cancer, and disease-related burden and symptoms. Her clinical and research interests lie in helping patients maximize their time and quality of life. She aims to align treatment with patient goals and provide holistic care that includes careful symptom assessment and management and support for the patient’s loved ones.
Dr. Sharma brings a unique perspective to neuro-oncology care in this area with her clinical experience combining neuro-oncology and palliative care. Her research focuses on understanding and improving quality of life, how we best manage symptoms, the importance of prognostication, and caregiver support. She partners with her patients and their families to develop holistic care plans that consider both mind and body health and the patient’s loved ones.
Dr. Sharma completed Neurology training at the University of Washington.
She then completed a two-year research/clinical Neuro-oncology fellowship at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, followed by a Hospice and Palliative Medicine fellowship at the University of Washington.
She is an active member of the Society for Neuro-oncology (SNO) (for whom she serves on the Women & Diversity Committee), the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), and the American Association of Hospice & Palliative Medicine (AAHPM).
Learn more about Dr. Akanksha Sharma, the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, and Pacific Brain Tumor Center
