A Lifelong Commitment to Rural Cancer Care

Benjamin George, MD, currently serving as the medical director of oncology at Community Hospital in McCook, Nebraska, and Targeted Oncology's second 2025 Oncology Icon, has dedicated his career to a singular mission: ensuring that high-quality cancer care is accessible to those living far from major metropolitan centers. This commitment to rural medicine is not a recent development but a thread that has run through his entire professional life. Dr George’s journey began in the United States Army, where he completed his internal medicine residency and his fellowship in hematology and oncology. Even during his military service, he sought out opportunities to provide outreach to smaller, remote army sites, recognizing early on that geography should never be a barrier to life-saving treatment.

Following his time in the military, Dr George transitioned to civilian practice in Colorado, where he continued to prioritize underserved populations. He spent significant time conducting outreach in rural communities like Sterling and Fort Morgan. For Dr George, the draw toward rural medicine is rooted in the belief that he can make the most significant impact in areas where resources are traditionally scarce. While he acknowledges that cancer care is inherently complex, he believes the heart of the practice is simple: being present for a patient at the exact moment they need support the most.

Now leading the oncology program in McCook, Dr. George has utilized his 20-plus years of clinical experience to build a comprehensive cancer center from the ground up. This unique program is defined by strong community engagement and a holistic approach to patient wellness. One of the achievements Dr George is most proud of is the establishment of the "Restoring You" program.

Upon arriving at Community Hospital, he identified a gap in supportive services—specifically, the lack of a dedicated "wig room" for patients experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy. To address this, Dr George personally provided the seed money to launch the initiative. This act of leadership inspired a wave of local philanthropy, with community donors providing matching funds to bring the program to life.

Today, the program stands as a testament to what is possible when professional expertise meets community spirit. By offering local access to advanced therapies and supportive programs like "Restoring You," Dr George has eliminated the need for patients to endure four-hour drives for their treatments. His work ensures that patients in Southwest Nebraska can remain close to their families and support networks, receiving world-class care in the community they call home.