We must creatively combine clinical knowledge into a pragmatic framework focused on comprehensive oncology care.
Innovative Technology and Clinical Application
Susan Weiss Behrend is an advanced practice oncology nurse. As an oncology clinical nurse specialist practicing in ambulatory medical, surgical and radiation oncology, she focuses on the care of adult cancer patients. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing she received a BSN, BA in Spanish literature, and an MSN. Ms. Behrend is certified by the oncology nursing certification corporation as an advanced oncology nurse (AOCN®). She is accomplished as a clinician in the field of radiation and ambulatory oncology nursing. She has written and edited numerous articles, and textbook chapters on topics related to her specialty and appears as faculty both nationally and internationally.
Ms. Behrend has held leadership positions with the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) including associate chair of the ONS Steering Council, as a board member of the Oncology Education Services, a member of the Oncology Nursing Forum editorial board and an elected member of the ONS National Nominating and Leadership Committee. She is a past recipient of the Friend of the Oncology Nursing Foundation Award. Her professional experience combines the roles of clinician and educator in the Department of Nursing at Fox Chase Cancer Center.
Core Competencies
Knowledge
- Comprehensive knowledge of ambulatory medical, surgical, and radiation oncology care in the adult cancer patient population.
- Proficient in clinical practice and research related to oncology nursing.
- Knowledge of structured oncology delivery systems.
- Committed to evidence-based practice and the impact on patient care, decision-making, and value-based care initiatives.
- Understanding of pathways to oncology nursing certification
- Ability to assemble clinical knowledge into a pragmatic framework focused on comprehensive oncology care.
- Competency in writing and editing journal articles, and textbook chapters, on topics related to oncology.
- Skilled in leadership, including holding positions within professional societies, councils, advisory boards, and committees.
- Proficiency in public speaking and presentations.
- Proficient in the care of adult cancer patients across oncology disciplines.
- Able to provide shared decision-making and value-based care through data acquisition and evidence-based practices.
- Demonstrate leadership potential, including the ability to chair national conferences and lead professional development councils.
- Inovate and transform ambulatory oncology care models through professional education and development.
- Emphasis on multidisciplinary teamwork and collaborative patient care.
- Commitment to professional education and career long learning.
- Promotion of the adoption of new developments in the delivery of oncology care.
- A consultative approach to leadership, fostering collegial growth among peers.
- Dedicated to prioritizing patient care and optimizing clinical outcomes.