Get to Know Hematologist Oncologist Robert Decker, MD

Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute is honored to have hematologist oncologist Robert Decker, MD, as part of the experienced and dedicated care team at LVH Hematology Oncology–Hazleton.

Although he is relatively new to the Hazleton practice, Dr. Decker is a familiar face at the Cancer Institute and Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), as he completed his internship, internal medicine residency and hematology oncology fellowship at LVHN.

“I chose a career in medicine so I could be part of improving the health of my own community,” Dr. Decker says. “I grew up in northeastern Pennsylvania, and it is an honor to give back to the community that raised me.”

Dedicated to providing individualized and compassionate care, Dr. Decker treats a wide range of conditions and cancer types (with a focus on caring for patients diagnosed with blood disorders).

I chose to pursue a career in medicine because I wanted to help people with cancer live better and longer lives.

I hope that my patients always feel that their concerns are being heard and addressed and that I will do everything possible to help them get the care they deserve.

The best part of my job is taking care of my patients.

The hardest part of my job is dealing with some of the more challenging aspects of navigating the health care system, such as trying to get patients the care that they need when they do not have insurance.

A career in medicine is extremely rewarding, but it also requires a lot of hard work and dedication. You should be prepared to care for people who have many different beliefs that may not be the same as yours.

However, if you are interested in improving the health and well-being of your community, medicine may be the career for you!

I like to use my commute to transition between my work and family life. I also try to leave as much of my work at “the office” as possible.

The future of oncology is very exciting, and the field is rapidly evolving. As we learn more about the mechanisms that drive cancer, we are able to develop therapies that minimize side effects and are more effective. I expect the personalization of cancer therapies to continue well into the future.

It is amazing to see people from all walks of life and hear how they feel about their conditions and general health.

I wanted to be a professional violinist.

My proudest moment to date was completing my training and finally getting to practice independently.

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is providing the best care for my patients and their families. Everyone loves to deliver good news, but it is also important to find the best way to help patients manage difficult situations or things that have not gone as planned.

I wake up very early!

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my children going biking. I also like golfing, exercising and lifting weights.

My favorite drink is Dr. Pepper Strawberries & Cream Zero Sugar!

I enjoy listening to nearly all genres of music and will change what type I’m listening to weekly. Some of my go-tos are rock, country, alternative, pop, punk and classical.

I have two dogs. Molly, a pitbull mix we rescued, has been with us for five years. Bingo, an American bulldog mix we also rescued, has been with us for six months.

My patients and their families motivate me. Every time I see a patient who is running low on or out of options, I am reminded that we must always strive to improve cancer treatment options.

I love football, and my favorite team is the Dallas Cowboys.

“Whether you think you can or think you can’t–you’re right.” - Henry Ford

I first heard this quote while watching the movie “The Boss Baby” with my kids!

The most interesting place I’ve traveled to is Saint Lucia.

My children!

My current favorite author is Brad Thor, who writes political thriller novels.

My favorite movie is “Forrest Gump,” and my favorite shows are “Lost” and “Lucifer.”

Yes! I collect socks and stickers from places I visit.

I really like buffalo chicken pizza.

I definitely prefer coffee – black with ice. My go-to order is an iced americano.

Christmas is my favorite holiday, especially now that I have children. I love how magical the entire season is for them, and it is so nice to be able to spend time with my family.

I pay it forward as much as possible!