In this episode of the Bench to Bedside podcast, Dr. Roy Jensen, vice chancellor and director of The University of Kansas Cancer Center, speaks with Dr. Ronald Chen, chair of Radiation Oncology and associate director for Community Outreach and Engagement at KU Cancer Center. Dr. Chen shares his personal and professional journey from growing up in Topeka to Harvard and a career on the East Coast and back to Kansas, focusing on his motivation to return home and how his work impacts rural communities. He discusses his efforts in cancer care, telehealth and clinical trials, emphasizing the importance of bringing skills back to Kansas to improve local healthcare.

00:00 Introduction to Bench to Bedside

00:47 Meet Dr. Ron Chen

01:33 Dr. Chen's Educational Journey

03:41 Returning to Kansas

05:40 Advice for Young Kansans

07:19 Midwest Reflections

09:50 Addressing Rural Healthcare Challenges

12:35 Community Engagement and Partnerships

14:46 Balancing Clinical Care and Research

17:02 Future of Cancer Care at KU

19:30 Conclusion and Farewell

Links from this Episode:

· Learn more about Dr. Ronald Chen

· Read this Q&A with Dr. Chen focused on eliminating health disparities

· Learn more about community outreach and engagement at KU Cancer Center

· Read about the Masonic Cancer Alliance

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