Kristina Mirabeau-Beale, MD, MPH, is a member of the Florida Medical Association (FMA) and serves as co-chair of the U.S. Breast Cancer Research Group for GenesisCare, a regional cancer center in Fort Myers. Her journey into radiation oncology began during her time at Harvard Medical School, where she initially planned to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology.
“When I started at Harvard Medical School, I was sure I was going to be an OB/GYN,” Dr. Mirabeau-Beale said. “But through early research and patient interviews at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, I learned the power of hearing a patient’s story in full. Those experiences showed me how deeply personal the cancer journey is.”
Her academic background in anthropology and women’s studies influenced her approach to oncology. She now treats breast cancer patients at all stages and values the combination of technology, physics, and patient care that radiation oncology offers.
“Radiation oncology is a very visual, collaborative field. I love that it blends technology, physics, and patient care,” she said.
Dr. Mirabeau-Beale highlighted the importance of supporting patients both medically and emotionally. She finds satisfaction in reassuring early-stage breast cancer patients about their prognosis.
“Many of our early-stage breast cancer patients have curative disease,” she explained. “It’s incredibly gratifying to reassure a patient who’s anxious about their prognosis that they’re going to do great.”
She also emphasized her commitment to patients with advanced disease.
“Radiation can bring real relief from pain and symptoms,” she said. “And when treatment is no longer fruitful, I value being able to have honest, compassionate conversations about end-of-life care — helping patients and families make decisions that align with their goals.”
Dr. Mirabeau-Beale’s approach includes focusing on emotional support, wellness, and building trust with her patients.
“I never do my notes while a patient is talking,” she said. “I make eye contact, I listen, I give hugs when they’re wanted. That presence builds trust and hope.”
She incorporates discussions on sleep, nutrition, and lifestyle habits as part of her care.
Her involvement with the FMA’s Karl M. Altenburger, MD Physician Leadership Academy has expanded her impact beyond clinical care.
“The Leadership Academy opened my eyes to how important advocacy is,” she said. “Across specialties, we share common challenges, and physicians have an essential role to play in shaping health policy. It’s been a call to action for me.”
She noted personal benefits from participating in the program.
“I’ve made real friendships, found new mentors, and connected with colleagues who’ve become collaborators,” Dr. Mirabeau-Beale said. “It’s been incredibly fulfilling.”
She described radiation oncology as a specialty focused on data-driven collaboration.
“Our specialty is data-driven and collaborative,” she said. “We design care plans that optimize outcomes while protecting quality of life. Radiation oncology isn’t just about X-rays. It’s about compassion, collaboration, and helping patients live their best lives.”
