Biography
Anton J. Bilchik, MD, PhD, MBA, FACS, is Chief of General Surgery at Providence Saint John’s Health Center and Professor of Surgery at the John Wayne Cancer Institute at Saint John’s in Los Angeles, California. He is an internationally recognized surgical oncologist and cancer researcher who has pioneered advanced staging techniques for colon cancer and minimally invasive approaches for liver and pancreas cancer.
Dr. Bilchik is trained and certified in advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery and serves as an investigator in international multi-center clinical trials. With over 220 peer-reviewed publications, he is considered one of the leading surgical oncology specialists in the country. His research has contributed to improving quality standards in cancer care, and he has been the recipient of competitive research funding from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 2001.
Education & Training
Dr. Bilchik’s medical training spans prestigious institutions in South Africa and the United States, including specialized fellowships in surgical oncology and cancer research:
- Medical School: University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa (1985)
- Internships:
- Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, South Africa (1986)
- Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT – GI Surgical (1990)
- Residency: UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA – General Surgery (1996)
- Fellowships:
- UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA – Surgical Research (1996)
- John Wayne Cancer Institute, Santa Monica, CA – Surgical Oncology (1998)
Board Certifications & Clinical Affiliations
- American Board of Surgery – Surgery
- Providence Saint John’s Health Center, Santa Monica
- Saint John’s Health Center Cancer Clinic
Awards & Recognition
Dr. Bilchik has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to science, medicine, and humanitarian efforts:
- John Wayne “Duke Award” – Recognizing his pioneering work in cancer research
- Anti-Defamation League Annual Humanitarian Award – First physician to receive this honor
Leadership & Research Contributions
Dr. Bilchik serves on the editorial boards of multiple peer-reviewed journals and is an active member of several prominent organizations:
- Board of Directors, Southern California Chapter of the American College of Surgeons
- Board of Directors, John Wayne Cancer Institute
- Board of Directors, California Oncology Research Institute (CORI)
Commitment to Patient Care & Community Outreach
Beyond his surgical expertise and research, Dr. Bilchik is deeply committed to community outreach programs, educating underserved communities about cancer prevention and early detection. He believes in a personalized approach to cancer care, ensuring that every patient is treated with dignity, compassion, and access to the latest treatments available.