Abstract
Previously in Japan, oncologists did not have sufficient opportunities to perform standard chemotherapy treatment. The Japanese Society of Medical Oncology was established to train oncologists with adequate knowledge and technical capabilities. The “Chemotherapy Specialist” exam was initiated in 2006, and currently 205 oncology specialists in Japan have been authorized under this system. The purpose of this society is not to simply “certify”, but to train talented and capable specialists who can make adequate diagnoses and propose appropriate treatment plans with compassion for each patient. The curriculum is based on that of ASCO/ESMO, with additional evaluation of ethical components and personal character through an extensive interview exam. Oncologists should not only be engaged in clinical research to establish standard treatment, but also must possess the flexibility to allow appropriate treatment for each particular individual. JSMO offers the opportunity for organ specialists to exchange information, and hold seminars so they can obtain the chance to go through the testing/training process smoothly to become chemotherapy specialists. We hope that dermatologists specializing in skin cancer also make the challenge to attain certification though JSMO to become well rounded chemotherapy specialists. [Skin Cancer (Japan) 2008; 23: 258-266]
