Making of a Gynecologic Oncologist

It takes a special person to be a gynecologic oncologist, requiring special surgical skills, empathy and knowledge of female cancer. American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology started a division of subspecialty in gynecology oncology in 1974 to train gynecologic oncologists in taking care of women with gynecologic malignancies. The curriculum was developed for candidates in training, and institutes were selected based on their expertise and availability of surgical, chemotherapy and radiation specialists following their board certification in obstetrics and gynecology. This article specifies all the current requirements and what it takes to be a gynecological oncologist for a person who is certified in obstetrics and gynecology and fits the criteria to become a gynecologic oncologist.