Heiwon Chung Whang, MD

Philosophy of care

The healing process requires trust, knowledge and hope. I try to create a feeling of trust, give patients the knowledge they need to understand their own condition, and of course, develop a plan that gives them hope. I treat my patients as if they are a member of my family or a close friend. I committed myself to that when I first thought of becoming a doctor. I know what it means. My dear aunt and grandmother both had breast cancer. I know how it affected my own family. Treating a patient like a member of the family means empowering my patients with understandable information and formulating a treatment plan that makes sense to them. I share my perspective with my patients, try to eliminate the unknown and help them to see the light after passing through darkness. 

Also, I am a member of the breast cancer multidisciplinary consultation team. Together we review your diagnostic information and give you a written opinion reflecting the scope of your condition and recommendations for your best course of care. 

Why I entered medicine

I was conflicted between my passion for classical music as a concert pianist and for the art of medicine as an intellectual. I came to a conclusion that I could combine both arts and make a compassionate career with the product of my hands - the art of Surgery.

Community involvement

I am committed to church activities, medical missions and mentorship. I am actively engaged in women's programs such as 'Show your chapeau', a fundraiser musical event to benefit breast cancer patients.

Personal interests

My interests are classical piano, church organ and oil painting. I am also fluent in Portuguese, Spanish and Korean.