Scott Kamelle

Dr. Scott Kamelle is a distinguished Gynecologic Oncologist and serves as the Director of Gyn Oncology at Aurora Healthcare in Milwaukee. With a career marked by remarkable achievements, research contributions, and leadership roles, Dr. Kamelle has become a prominent figure in the field of gynecologic oncology.
Having completed his Internship and Residency at the esteemed Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, followed by a Fellowship at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Dr. Kamelle possesses a wealth of knowledge and expertise. He initially practiced in Chicago before joining Aurora Healthcare in 2007, where he quickly became an integral part of the team, consistently delivering high-quality care to his patients.
During his tenure at Aurora, Dr. Kamelle played a pivotal role as the Chair of the Robotic Steering Committee for over a decade, spearheading advancements in robotic surgical techniques within gynecologic oncology. Additionally, he contributed significantly as a member of the Gyn Oncology Quality Committee, ensuring that patients received excellent care adhering to the highest standards.
Dr. Kamelle’s commitment to academic pursuits is equally impressive. As an Associate Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and a Resident Instructor at Sinai Medical-Obstetrics and Gynecology, he is dedicated to shaping future physician leaders. Completing the Medical Group Physician Leadership Program has given him a comprehensive understanding of medical systems and a strong business background, further enhancing his capabilities as a healthcare professional.
The breadth of Dr. Kamelle’s expertise and contributions extends to his involvement in various research projects. His research interests encompass antineoplastic agents, alternative therapies for menopausal symptoms, and the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in gynecologic cancers. His work has been recognized with awards, including the Journal of Patient-Centered Research and Reviews Article of the Year Award, and has been published in reputable medical journals.
Active participation in professional societies, such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Medical Association, the American Society of Gynecologic Oncology, and the Wisconsin State Medical Society, demonstrates Dr. Kamelle’s dedication to advancing the field of gynecologic oncology through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and advocacy.
Beyond professional accomplishments, Dr. Kamelle is known for his exceptional skills and compassionate patient care, earning him accolades such as being listed as a Top Doctor in Milwaukee Magazine and recognized as one of the Best Oncologists in Milwaukee by Three Best Rated. His outstanding reputation as a leading Gynecologic Oncologist is a testament to his significant impact on women’s health and well-being.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

For myself, the week consists of both surgery and clinic days. Surgery days are more physically demanding, and I often perform 3-4 operations in a day. Clinic days are entirely different in that social and cerebral skill sets are exhausted. In the same vein, both are equally rewarding but in different ways. Surgery supplies a sense of accomplishment while clinic establishes a patient doctor relationship that fosters human connection.

How do you bring ideas to life?

Physician ideas can fall into operational or process improvement categories. Most physicians in some way supply both by participating in governing and strategy committees. Some take it a step further by generating research ideas that attempt to answer pertinent questions in their field. Serving as Director of Gynecologic Oncology as well as Co-chair of the Robotics Steering committee, I was fortunate to actively participate in nurturing the two departments and effecting their growth. Our department also has published numerous articles, two of which were lead articles in the Journal of Gynecologic Oncology. All these experiences required collaboration and large amounts of negotiation which are key to bringing all ideas to life.

What’s one trend that excites you?

Working from home is a game changer. Not so much for me as a Surgeon, but most business can be transacted from home. This will be a social life changer in that people will now be able to live and work wherever they want. Quality of life in our busy world should improve. If you love Aspen, as I do, you can live and work there. I find it very exciting.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Socialize with friends. I am generally gregarious and love to have people over and entertain. In doing so I always surround myself with friends who possess an array of non-medical skill sets. This keeps me sharp and often educates me while concurrently having a good time.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t rush your education. Likewise, don’t pigeon-hole yourself into a career at a young age. Adventure and experience life. There are numerous career opportunities and sometimes you can perfect more than one.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

The movie the Deer Hunter is Robert De Niro’s best movie. Understanding that he had many academy nominations he in fact only won two and not for the Deer Hunter.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Play chess. Now with computer applications you can play chess at any time. Sometimes I find myself playing between cases on operative days. It challenges my intellect and keeps me humble.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

Exercise. I love to go to the gym. It relieves tension and rejuvenates me.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

Even if you are technically skilled, you must be a good communicator to succeed in any career. Leadership skill sets are based upon charisma, intellect, and personal morals. However, one must be able to relate and convey ideas to all facets of a community. Building relationships is founded on trust and ultimately garnered through communication.

What is one failure in your career,  how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

I allowed adversarial professional interactions affect my demeanor. Conflict is unavoidable in any business and sometimes differing opinions will foster ill will. You can’t get caught up in this trap. It’s always better to be respectful but firm and then move on. You can’t let these occurrences affect your future judgement.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Having just finished training at the dawn of the electronic medical records age, I can honestly write that I have been privy to many record platforms. None has been more useful of productive than EPIC. Epic medical records organizes, prioritizes and personalizes patient information such that traditional “chart work” has become seamless and almost enjoyable. Additionally, there is a platform for communication that expedites patient care by connecting nursing, physician, and hospital personnel.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

I have many favorite books. Narcissus and Goldmund by Hermann Hesse is one of my favorites. It supports my belief that life is vast, and you would be wise to adventure while you are young and naïve to the heaviness that age can bring.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

The Queen’s Gambit was an amazing series and ties in with my interest in chess. Understanding that the story was extraordinary, I thought the acting was spectacular and I have no doubt that we will be seeing a lot of Anya Taylor-Joy on the silver screen.

Key learnings

• Welcome life’s adventures
• Keep your mind active with daily intellectual challenges
• Surround yourself with people who possess different skill sets from your own
• Navigate conflict by taking into account future directions