Meet Medical Oncologist, Dr. Susan Newman

For more than two decades, Susan Newman, MD, has been a trusted presence for patients facing a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Newman serves our community as a board-certified medical oncologist and medical director for medical oncology with Covenant Health Oncology Group and the Breast Program at Covenant Health. She combines clinical expertise with compassion to guide patients through treatment with dignity, collaboration and hope and hope. 

Dr. Newman’s Journey into Medicine 

Dr. Newman’s path to medicine began right here in East Tennessee. After earning her undergraduate degree at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, she attended medical school at Tulane University in New Orleans. She completed her internal medicine residency at the University of Texas Southwestern at Parkland Hospital in Dallas and her medical oncology fellowship at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville. 

Following her training, Dr. Newman returned home to Knoxville, where she has spent the past 22 years caring for patients in the community she loves. 

Her decision to pursue medicine took shape during her undergraduate years, when she worked in dietary services at UT Medical Center while majoring in nutrition. Immersed in the hospital environment and inspired by her brother’s journey to medical school, she discovered a passion for patient care that defined her career. 

Finding Her Calling in Oncology 

Dr. Newman discovered her calling in oncology during her residency, while caring for veterans at one of the largest VA hospitals in the country. Supporting patients through complex illnesses and difficult conversations, she found purpose in being present during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives. 

Encouraged by mentors who recognized her ability to communicate with empathy and clarity, Dr. Newman chose oncology. This specialty has allowed her to build meaningful, lasting relationships with patients.  

Putting Patients First 

At the heart of Dr. Newman’s practice is a deeply personal, patient-centered philosophy. She believes cancer care is never a one-person effort. It is a partnership between the patient, physician and care team. 

“My goal is to make the experience of a cancer diagnosis and treatment the best it can possibly be,” Dr. Newman shares. She takes time to listen, understand what matters most to her patients and ensure their voices are central in medical decisions. 

She understands that cancer affects far more than physical health. By fostering open conversations and shared decision-making, Dr. Newman helps patients feel supported, informed and empowered at every step. 

Finding Meaning in Every Moment 

For Dr. Newman, the most rewarding part of oncology is the relationships she builds with patients and families. Over time, those connections become deeply personal. They often extend beyond treatments and appointments into shared experiences of resilience and perspective. 

She often reflects on the powerful reminders of gratitude and strength found in the oncology waiting room. Watching patients support one another through their journeys reinforces a profound appreciation for life and for the courage shown every day by those she serves. 

Life Outside the Clinic 

A proud East Tennessean, Dr. Newman returned to Knoxville after her training to raise her two children close to family. When she’s not at work, she enjoys staying active through running and strength training, spending time with her children, traveling and relaxing at the beach. 

She is also passionate about cooking. For Dr. Newman, preparing meals for others is an expression of connection, generosity and love. 

A Trusted Partner in Care 

At Covenant Health, Dr. Newman is known not only for her leadership and expertise but also for her unwavering commitment to treating every patient as a whole person. For those navigating cancer, she is a steady, compassionate partner, focused on providing exceptional care, meaningful guidance and hope throughout the journey. 

Get Care 

If you or a loved one is facing cancer, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Connect with Dr. Newman and the Covenant Health Oncology team to begin a personalized, compassionate care journey.