Who We Are
West Cancer Center is committed to improving the quality, effectiveness, and accessibility of cancer care for every patient. Through innovative research, advanced clinical trials, and personalized treatment plans, patients have access to the latest therapies and leading-edge cancer care.
MISSION
To provide clinical and research excellence throughout the cancer journey, while respecting the quality of life – physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
VISION
West Cancer Center and Research Institute will be the first choice for cancer treatment within the Mid-South and a national model for our comprehensive approach.
Core Values
Respect: This is our promise. Integrity: This is our foundation. Service: This is our purpose. Excellence: This is our expectation.
HISTORY
William H. West, MD, was a nationally respected oncologist and lead investigator for the National Institutes of Health in Washington, D.C. Following the loss of his mother to breast cancer, his mission became clear: to provide world-class cancer treatment and research capabilities in his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee. In 1979, Dr. West’s goal became reality, and the doors of what would become West Clinic officially opened.
A chance meeting shortly following the opening further cemented the foundation of West Clinic. Kurt W. Tauer, MD, FACP, was a resident at a hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, assigned to a colon cancer patient of Dr. West’s. They quickly established a partnership – and friendship – that would bring Dr. Tauer back to Memphis following his fellowship in Medical Oncology at Memorial Sloane-Kettering in New York City. In almost predictable happenstance, Dr. Tauer’s across-the-hall neighbor in New York City and fellow resident at Memorial Sloane-Kettering – Lee S. Schwartzberg, MD, FACP – would eventually join Dr. Tauer and Dr. West at West Clinic to form a powerful partnership of physicians dedicated to improving cancer care and overall health in the Memphis community.
