Blair McNamara has taken on a pivotal role at the Yale School of Medicine, where she serves as an assistant professor in the Gynecologic Oncology Division. Following her graduation in 2018, she returned as a clinical fellow in gynecologic oncology in 2022, having completed her residency at the University of California, San Francisco. Her journey into this specialty was shaped by profound experiences during her medical training, particularly one that highlighted the critical role of oncologists in patient care.
During her time at Yale, McNamara encountered various patients in need of gynecologic cancer care. One encounter that particularly resonated with her involved a woman facing advanced ovarian cancer. The patient had undergone multiple surgeries and rounds of chemotherapy, weighing the difficult decision to continue treatment or transition to hospice care. McNamara remarked on the impact of her gynecologic oncologist, who had supported this patient throughout her journey. “That was so inspiring,” she said, reflecting on the oncologist’s commitment to guiding patients through both treatment and end-of-life decisions.
As an advocate for women facing cancers such as uterine, cervical, and ovarian cancer, McNamara is passionate about improving clinical outcomes and quality of care. She noted that these cancers often affect older patients and receive less attention in terms of research and funding. Her exposure to dedicated faculty and research during her medical education was instrumental in shaping her focus on gynecologic oncology.
McNamara emphasizes the importance of addressing survivorship issues, which can vary significantly from one patient to another. “I think Yale is exceptional at helping patients anticipate changes to sexual health and early menopause after a cancer diagnosis,” she explained. As treatment options improve, she finds it crucial to support patients during their transition into “life after cancer,” addressing both their physical recovery and the ongoing side effects of treatment.
Her return to the East Coast was driven by a desire to be closer to family and to the changing seasons, which she missed while in California. McNamara appreciates the vibrant research community at Yale and is excited to contribute to advancements in gynecologic oncology. “Yale is truly at the forefront of medical and surgical advancements in the field,” she stated.
Beyond her medical career, McNamara is a dedicated hobbyist, finding joy in creating and learning new skills. From knitting and sewing to woodworking, she embraces a variety of crafts. “Every year, there’s a new thing I want to learn how to do,” she said, expressing how these pursuits keep her energized and passionate.
As McNamara continues her journey in gynecologic oncology, her commitment to patient care and advocacy remains at the forefront of her work. Her experiences not only shape her practice but also inspire those around her to prioritize compassionate care in the face of challenging circumstances.
