Breast Cancer Awareness Month spotlight: Karen Ching-Tismal, MD, FACS
By Lauren Byrd
FMA VP of Communications and Strategic Partnership
Breast Surgical Oncologist, Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center – Jacksonville, FL
FMA Member and Leadership Academy 2025-26 Class Member
For Karen Ching-Tismal, MD, FACS, medicine has always been about connection — not just clinical expertise, but also compassion. As a breast surgical oncologist at Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center in Jacksonville, she builds lasting relationships with her patients as they navigate some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
“Creating committed, enduring relationships with patients undergoing intense treatments for cancer was what inspired me to become a breast surgical oncologist,” she said. “The advances in diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer are incredible and give so much hope to both clinician and patient.”
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Ching-Tismal’s days are filled with patient visits, surgeries, and education about breast health, prevention, and early detection. However, this mission extends well beyond October.
“Truth be told, our cancer center highlights these every month of the year,” she said with pride.
Her most rewarding moments come from walking beside patients through every step of their journey. “Being a part of each of my patient’s breast cancer journey, regardless of the outcome, is what makes my job special and inspires me to be my best every day.”
Dr. Ching-Tismal believes that emotional support begins with listening. “Actively hearing, understanding, acknowledging, and respecting my patients’ fears, questions, hopes, and goals for treatment is one of the most valuable ways to support them,” she said.
Outside the operating room, she advocates tirelessly for early detection and patient education. “Early diagnosis saves lives,” she reminds the community. “And to patients undergoing their cancer journey — you never walk alone.”
Dr. Ching-Tismal serves on the Board of the Breast360 Foundation, which provides educational and emotional support for patients and their families throughout treatment.
As a member of the current class of the FMA’s Karl M. Altenburger, MD Physician Leadership Academy, she continues to expand her impact beyond the exam room.
“The FMA Leadership Academy has been such a wonderful learning experience shared with like-minded physician leaders across Florida,” she said. “It’s given me insight into healthcare policy and how, together, we can effect change for a healthier Florida.”