Dr. Richard Cassidy is a board-certified radiation oncologist who practices at our Fleming Island and Southpoint locations. Raised in North Florida, Dr. Cassidy received his medical degree from the University of Florida, where he was in the Junior Honors Medical Program and received Alpha Omega Alpha honors. He completed his radiation oncology training at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University in Atlanta, GA, where he was chief resident.
Like many others, Dr. Cassidy has had personal experiences with cancer; both of his grandfathers lost their battles when he was young, and his grandmother lost hers soon after he finished medical school. “These losses sharpened my interest and focus in improving oncology care” he says. “It’s important to consider someone’s personal beliefs, wishes, and goals,” he continues; “my philosophy is to involve patients in their treatment plan, because cancer care is more than just addressing the medical condition – it involves the whole patient and their personal situation”.
As someone who grew up playing sports, Dr. Cassidy believes that complex cancer care is a team sport. He enjoys working closely with other physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and all of the medical staff needed for excellent patient care. “This cooperation makes for a close-knit atmosphere, which ultimately benefits patients and their families,” he says, continuing “the honor to serve my community and to directly give back to my hometown gives me extreme pride.”
When not at work, Dr. Cassidy enjoys spending time with his wife, their sons, and their families who are all located in the Jacksonville area. When he’s not chasing his toddler around, he still finds time to struggle playing basketball and golf, as well as being a slightly over the top fan of Florida Gator sports.