Joseph Thompson, MD

From an early age, I was fascinated by science and how the human body worked, and I've always been fulfilled by helping others. So, although no one in my family works in healthcare, I was naturally drawn to the field of medicine. \n Throughout my academic journey, I became particularly interested in the biology of cancer, which guided me toward a focus on oncology. In medicine, and especially in cancer care, things are changing at breakneck speed. It's imperative that clinicians stay up to date on this ever-changing field. And fortunately, that's easy to do because I find it captivating. \n I primarily treat patients with genitourinary (meaning, related to the genital and urinary organs) cancers, including cancer of the kidney, bladder and prostate, as well as patients with cutaneous malignancies, such as melanoma. My other clinical interests include immunotherapy because of its incredible potential in fighting cancer. \n Cancer care is complex and often difficult to navigate. One thing I pride myself on is an ability to connect and communicate with my patients. I work hard to ensure that they - and their loved ones - understand their disease and treatment options. My patients and I develop a personalized plan together that is aligned to their needs and goals. \n I grew up in Charlotte but left for college, medical school and further medical training. I'm thrilled to be back home and closer to family. The Queen City has changed so much since I was young, and I delight in finding unique restaurants, green spaces and community programs to participate in. \n In my free time, I love being outdoors and staying active; my favorite hobbies include exploring nature with my two rescue dogs, running and playing tennis.

Alan Skarbnik, MD, serves as the director of the lymphoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia program and director of experimental therapeutics, malignant hematology at Novant Health. Prior to joining Novant Health, Dr. Skarbnik served as the director of the chronic lymphocytic leukemia program at John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center. As an expert in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and lymphomas, his research focuses on using immunotherapy to improve outcomes of autologous stem cell transplantation for patients with high-risk blood cancers. Dr. Skarbnik is a member of the medical advisory board to the CLL Society and has over 90 peer-reviewed research manuscripts and abstracts in the fields of lymphomas, CLL and stem cell transplantation. Dr. Skarbnik is fluent in English, Spanish and Portuguese. During his free time, he enjoys time with his wife and three children, playing in a rock band and crafting beer.