Position Overview

Understanding the Role

A Legacy of Compassionate Cancer Care

Adventist Health Columbia Gorge is seeking a full-time Medical Oncologist to join the team at Celilo Cancer Center in The Dalles, Oregon. This is a unique opportunity to join a 25-year-established, community-based cancer center that provides exceptional clinical care in an environment that promotes healing, health, and wellness.

Celilo (Sly-e-lo) Cancer Center operates in collaboration with the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute and provides full-spectrum cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology, pathology, breast and reconstructive surgery, nurse navigation, and robust patient support services. The cancer center is located directly across from Adventist Health Columbia Gorge hospital.

The cancer center’s reach extends far beyond the city limits of The Dalles, serving six counties and a catchment area of 11,000 square miles — approximately 85,000 lives that depend on this program for their oncology needs. Patients travel from both sides of the Columbia River, often choosing this center over urban options because of its personalized, relationship-driven approach to medicine.

Community Practice with Room to Lead

At Celilo Cancer Center, success is measured by the quality of patient relationships—not patient volume. Practice in a low-volume, high-touch environment that allows time for meaningful conversations, thoughtful treatment planning, and continuity of care. Supported by an experienced team of nurses, pharmacists, and navigators, you'll deliver comprehensive oncology care in a setting that prioritizes compassion and clinical excellence.

This generalist hematology-oncology opportunity is ideal for a physician who enjoys broad-based community practice and the chance to help shape a growing program. With strong system support and significant growth potential, physicians with leadership interest may also be considered for Medical Director of Hematology/Oncology, helping guide program development, accreditation efforts, and future expansion.

A Practice Culture Built on Respect, Retention, and Relationships

Adventist Health Columbia Gorge is a place where physicians build lasting careers. The organization has cultivated a culture centered on collaboration, accessibility, and long-term physician satisfaction, with leadership that empowers clinicians and values their voices.

Supported by a highly tenured team, onsite childcare, and a patient-first approach to care, you'll have the resources to thrive both professionally and personally. A sustainable practice model, strong collegial relationships, and a commitment to work-life balance have fostered exceptional staff retention and a stable, supportive environment where physicians can focus on what matters most—caring for patients and enjoying life outside of medicine.

Adventist Health Columbia Gorge System

Step into a respected, community-trusted cancer program serving 85,000+ residents across Oregon’s Columbia Gorge, where you will serve as the key oncology provider for the region while remaining fully supported by a robust Adventist Health system and a direct affiliation with OHSU. This partnership provides immediate access to subspecialty expertise, academic collaboration, and clinical guidance—ensuring support is always close at hand.

The role blends the autonomy of community-based oncology with the strength of a larger integrated system. Through the OHSU affiliation, you will also hold an Associate Professor appointment, recognizing the partnership without requiring additional research or academic responsibilities.

You will practice low-volume, high-quality oncology care with the time to build meaningful patient relationships, supported by a long-tenured multidisciplinary team and a system deeply committed to physician retention and work-life balance. Leadership opportunities, including Medical Director designation, are available for those interested in helping shape program growth, reaccreditation, and future recruitment.

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