Find a Top Oncologist Near Me in Avondale, AZ – Book an Appointment Instantly

Biography:

• College: Bachelor of Science (St. Cloud State University-St. Cloud, Minnesota)

• Physician Assistant Program: Master of Physician Assistant Studies (Northern Arizona University-Flagstaff, AZ)

• Board Certification: Certified Physician Assistant

• Language: English

Karlee grew up in a small town in Southern Wisconsin and went on to attend St. Cloud State University in Minnesota, where she played NCAA college soccer. After earning a degree in biomedical science with magna cum laude honors, she pursued her passion for medicine by obtaining a Physician Assistant degree from Northern Arizona University. During her time at Northern Arizona University she was an Arizona Area Health Education Center Scholar, engaging in a comprehensive two year interprofessional program that focused on preparing healthcare professionals for practice in underserved communities. This experience combined hands-on clinical training with community based learning, fostering a deep understanding of diverse patient needs.

Outside of work she enjoys reading, running, yoga, and spending quality time with family. Her commitment to ongoing learning and staying current with the latest medical advancements ensures that she is always equipped to deliver high quality care to her patients.

LinkedIn Profile

BIOGRAPHY

Dr. Nagaiah received his medical degree from MGR Medical University in India and has been in practice for more than 20 years. His residency and internship were completed at Mercy Catholic Medical Center in Pennsylvania, and he completed a fellowship at West Virginia University. He earned a Masters in Clinical Research from the MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston. Dr. Nagaiah has expertise in treating lymphoma, lung cancer, and breast cancer, among other conditions.

PHILOSOPHY

I believe that being an oncologist is a privilege that is not to be taken lightly. I strive to provide evidence-based care that is appropriate to my patients’ particular problem, recognizing and respecting individual patient’s wishes. I take a multidisciplinary approach to care, including alternative therapies that have been shown to be effective.

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS

1. Nagaiah G, Hossain A, Mooney CJ, Parmentier J, Remick SC. Anaplastic thyroid cancer: A review of epidemiology, pathogenesis, and treatment. J Oncol.2011;2011:542358.
   2. Batalo M, Nagaiah G, Abraham J. Cognitive dysfunction in postmenopausal breast cancer patients on aromatase inhibitors. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther.2011;11(8):1277-1282.
   3. Nagaiah G, Remick SC. Combretastatin A4 phosphate: A novel vascular disrupting agent. Future Oncol. 2010;6(8):1219-1228
   4. Mooney CJ, Nagaiah G, Fu P, et al. A phase II trial of fosbretabulin in advanced anaplastic thyroid carcinoma and correlation of baseline serum-soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1 with outcome. Thyroid. 2009;19(3):233-240.
   5. Nagaiah G, Almubarak M, Khan M, Altaha R. Cerebrospinal fluid leak during treatment with bevacizumab and irinotecan after carmustine-impregnated wafers placement in patients with grade 2 oligodendroglioma and glioblastoma multiforme: Report of two cases and review of literature. Cancer Invest. 2010;28(10):1048-1053

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/govardhanan-n-ab26a97/

Melissa Aswad is a twice-graduate of Northern Arizona University with both her Bachelor of Science (BS, 2014) and Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS, 2021).  Prior to starting her career as a physician assistant, Melissa worked as a medical laboratory scientist after completing her training at the Cleveland Clinic.  She worked in a hospital laboratory for several years performing complex testing but missed interacting directly with patients.  This led her to return to school and pursuing a career as a physician assistant.  She has experienced caregiving for a loved one with cancer and enjoys assisting her patients and their families in navigating a new diagnosis.  She particularly enjoys assisting patients in living with metastatic cancer and helping them maximize their life outside of the oncology office.  When she is not working Melissa enjoys hiking, backpacking, attending live music, reading, and spending time with her husband and cat. 

Dr. Angeles is a board-certified general surgeon with advanced training in benign and malignant breast diseases. She is committed to a multidisciplinary approach to treating breast cancer, working closely with the other sub-specialists in oncology to provide the best treatment plan for each patient. She also incorporates oncoplastic techniques to provide optimal cosmetic outcomes after breast conservation surgery.

Dr. Angeles received her medical degree from Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific. She completed her general surgery residency at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Pennsylvania. Having a special interest in breast cancer, she went on to complete a breast surgical oncology fellowship at Medstar Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C

In her spare time, she loves to travel, support her sons at their basketball games, and hike during the cooler months in and around Arizona.

"I was referred to Dr. Angeles for a breast consult. I had been diagnosed with LCIS and she was very informative and thorough. She ended up doing another biopsy/lumpectomy and found a 2.5mm cancerous tumor. After another surgery to check my lymph nodes I was referred for radiation therapy. Dr. Angeles was so wonderful during this whole process. Her bedside manner is top notch. All her staff and nurses were amazing as well. I have had very little down time considering everything that has happened. She got the ball rolling quickly with all of my care and I am so grateful." -Cathie

"She is probably the most empathetic doctor I have ever met. She truly cares about her patients, not just the cancer, but your whole being. She reassuring and comforting when patients like me are at their worst. Highly recommend." -Ginny

Craig Hullett, MD, PhD, is a board-certified radiation oncologist with extensive experience in the treatment of a wide range of malignancies. He began his academic career in Communication, earning a Bachelor of Arts from Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, followed by a Master of Arts from Wake Forest University and a Doctor of Philosophy from Michigan State University. He later served as a tenured Associate Professor of Communication at the University of Arizona.

Inspired by his volunteer work at a local hospice, Dr. Hullett transitioned to medicine and earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Arizona. During medical school, he was inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society and Alpha Omega Alpha, recognizing his commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care and academic excellence. He completed his internship and residency training in Radiation Oncology at the University of Wisconsin.

Dr. Hullett has been practicing in Arizona since 2022 and is pleased to have returned to the state with his family. Outside of his clinical practice, he enjoys spending time with his family, exercising, and traveling.

Languages spoken: English

Dr. Jason Samuelian is a Board-certified Radiation Oncologist, with expertise in novel radiation techniques including Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT), Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS), and Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR). He has a particular interest in using new and advanced treatment techniques to minimize side effects. He derives great satisfaction from spending time with his patients and developing relationships with them that last long beyond their cancer care.

Dr. Samuelian joined Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2015. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Physiology from Brigham Young University, where he graduated cum laude. He earned his medical doctorate at Midwestern University in Glendale, where he was awarded the MICA Scholastic Award in 2008, and graduated with Honors in 2010. He completed an internal medicine internship at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, followed by residency training at the Baylor College of Medicine, where he also served as chief resident. In addition, Dr. Samuelian has completed two brachytherapy fellowships — at the MD Anderson Cancer Center and the Seattle Prostate Institute.

Dr. Samuelian is a member of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology, American Brachytherapy Society, American College of Radiology, American College of Radiation Oncology, and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. He has been invited to serve on the ASCO Professional Development Committee. He currently serves as Chairman of the Cancer Committee at Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City, a program accredited by the Commission on Cancer (CoC).

Dr. Samuelian actively participates in cooperative group clinical trials. His research has been published in peer-reviewed medical journals, and he has presented at national meetings on SABR for COPD patients with early-stage lung cancer, IMRT for the treatment of rectal cancer, and prostate cancer brachytherapy, among others.

Patient Reviews:

"Dr. Samuelian has always been very honest and truthful in presenting us with our options I trust his opinion 100 present and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking his treatment." -Rick

"I have been very impressed with Dr. Jason Samuelian. He seems extremely knowledgeable. I have had several doctors that had horrible bedside manner. Dr. Samuelian has an incredible bedside manner. It was so obvious that he was really concerned with my welfare. I would also like to do a shout out to his support team. They were incredible, and kind. I can't say enough about the entire experience. I'd give him six stars if I could." -Peter

Dr. Christopher Biggs specializes in radiation oncology and is an expert in radiosurgery and gynecological oncology.

Dr. Biggs co-founded Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2008 with Drs. Devinder Singh, Daniel Reed and Terry Lee. He attended the University of Arizona, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular and Cellular biology. His interest in cancer research took him to the University of Southern California, under the Borchard Cancer Research Fellowship. There, he performed research on the molecular genetics of cancer at the Norris Cancer Center and at LA Children’s Hospital. After completing his Doctor of Philosophy degree, he moved to Stanford University, where he earned his medical degree, and developed an interest in radiation oncology. Dr. Biggs completed his residency in radiation oncology at the University of California, San Francisco, where he eventually served as chief resident.

For five years, Dr. Biggs performed radiosurgery at Barrow Neurological Institute and also served as director of the Baptist Oncology Center.

Dr. Biggs is certified by the American Board of Radiology and is a Diplomat of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology. He is a member of the American Association for Cancer Research, Radiology Society of North America, American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology and the American Association of Advancement of Science.

Dr. Biggs is a multi-year “Top Doc” honoree by Phoenix Magazine.

Patient Reviews:

"My experience was great I even had to travel from Yuma AZ for my treatments. DR Biggs made everything go as easy and painless for me. his staff were extremely kind and professional just like him! I appreciate so much for their empathy they had for me and my battle with cancer. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I highly recommend this office." -Jen

"The office visit was for my husband Jessie Wilson. Dr. Biggs is excellent at relieving any anxiety we had going in. He took the time to explain everything as well as talking about personal info to get to know us better. We left feeling very relaxed and confident in his care moving forward. We highly recommend Dr. Biggs and his entire staff to anyone who needs treatment!" -Linda

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Dr. Terry Lee specializes in radiation oncology, and has extensive experience in brain, head and neck, lung, and gastrointestinal cancer.

Dr. Lee co-founded Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2008 with Drs. Devinder Singh, Christopher Biggs and Daniel Reed. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Los Angeles, and his Master of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where he explored new treatment options for brain tumors using Boron Neutron Capture Therapy. Dr. Lee attended medical school at Tufts University School of Medicine, where he would also complete his internship, before completing his residency at the University of California, San Francisco, where he would eventually serve as chief resident.

Dr. Lee certified by the American Board of Radiology, and he is a Diplomat of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology. He is a multi-year “Top Doc” honoree by Phoenix Magazine.

Patient Reviews:

"Dr. Lee and all personnel are very good the Dr. explained with details my problem and all personnel are professional and treated me with care." -Sylvia

"Dr. Lee was great, kept us updated with treatment. Checking how everything thing was going & answered all questions. The staff was always very will to help!
Thanks again!!!!!!!!!!" -Tom

Dr. Daniel Richard Reed specializes in radiation oncology, with a focus on breast and prostate cancers.

Dr. Reed co-founded Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2008 with Drs. Devinder Singh, Christopher Biggs and Terry Lee. He received his Bachelor of Science  in Chemistry and Biology from Western Kentucky University. He attended medical school at West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, completed his internship at Doctors Hospital Ohio University and his residency at the University of Washington Medical Center, where he would eventually serve as Chief Resident and in 2002 earned the National Research Award in radiation oncology for his work in breast cancer treatment. He also served as the Seattle Prostate Institute/American Brachytherapy Society Prostate fellowship coordinator for several years.

In 2007, he authored the National Treatment Guidelines of the American College of Radiology for Prostate Cancer Radiation Therapy and the book chapter on Skull-based tumors in The Textbook of Radiation Oncology (2nd edition). He has also served as a scientific reviewer for the International Journal of Radiation Oncology and national representative of the American Brachytherapy Society.

Dr. Reed is certified by the American Board of Radiology and is a Diplomat of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology. He is a current or past member of the American Brachytherapy Society, American Radium Society, American Radiology Resident Association, American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Medical Association and American Osteopathic Association, among others.

Dr. Reed is a multi-year “Top Doc” honoree by Phoenix Magazine and has over 70 combined 5-star reviews from happy patients.

Patient Reviews:

Dr. Kaplan treats a wide variety of medical oncology, malignant hematology, and benign hematologic disease. She is especially interested in treating breast cancer and general oncology.

Dr. Kaplan enjoys cooking, reading, watching sports, traveling, and spending time with family and her 2 dogs named Penny.

"Dr. Kaplan was a major part of my father-in-love’s cancer treatment and was one of his biggest champions. Her bedside manner was incredibly personalized, kind, and intentional. He couldn’t say enough wonderful things about her. I highly recommend her!" -Leanne

Dr. Abhimanyu Ghose clinical interests include treating patients with all types of cancer, including lung, gastrointestinal, breast, genitourinary (bladder, prostate, renal), skin, myeloma, lymphomas, and other blood disorders. Dr. Ghose has more than 25 published peer reviewed articles in field of oncology and has presented at national and international conferences.

Dr. Ghose believes in treating his patients with the same level of respect and compassion he would offer to his family members. He is a strong advocate for his patients. His approach is individualized to each patient because each patient’s condition and situation in life is unique.

In his free time, Dr. Ghose enjoys spending time with his family, dining out, hiking, and traveling. He is also an avid tennis player.

Patient Reviews:

"I have been treating with Dr. Abhimanyu Ghose since my diagnosis in December of 2018. I was diagnosed with Stage IV, Non Small Cell Lung cancer. I began treatment March of 2019 with chemotherapy and Keytruda. After completing chemotherapy I have remained on Keytruda since the beginning. I have been in remission for over a year and my CT scans continue to confirm no evidence of disease. I trust Dr. Ghose and his team to continue to make the best treatment plans possible for me. I also believe Keytruda has been a life saver for me! I continue to have infusions every 3 weeks with little to no adverse reactions. I am grateful to have Dr. Ghose and the infusion nurses taking care of me." -Nancy

"Have had wonderful care by Dr. Ghose thru my cancer treatment and follow ups for last 4 years. He is attentive and caring and positive. Easy to understand his explanations and thorough. Office experiences always efficient." -Jeff

About Dr. Dhillon:

Dr. Dhillon is fellowship trained in Hematology and Medical Oncology. His clinical interests include a broad spectrum of disorders including solid tumors, hematologic malignancies, and benign hematologic disorders. His special interests include pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, myeloma, lymphoma, gastrointestinal malignancies, prostate cancer, and lung cancer. Dr. Dhillon also specializes in treatment of blood disorders.

Dr. Dhillon has participated in a number of research projects. He has presented his work at national meetings, and published in journals, including the New England Journal of Medicine.  

He is an advocate of collaborative and patient-centered cancer care that delivers effective treatment while maintaining quality of life.

Dr. Dhillon enjoys golf, writing, activities related to personal fitness, hiking, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

Patient Reviews:

"I am a snowbird and had no idea who would be a good oncologist during the winter to treat me. When I read about him online, he was one of my top choices and I’m glad I picked him. He has been the perfect fit for me. Not only does he have a friendly personality, but he is very thorough and caring. He is also very efficient as well. If he says he will do something, you can depend on him to do it. I feel that I am in very good hands here. Thank you Dr. Dhillon! I will tell my Idaho friends about you." -Marilyn

"When I come to Dr Dhillon’s office I can honestly say that I have never felt so loved and cared for in any physician’s office. The staff there is excellent beginning with checking in. They are so polite and helpful. All of the nurses take a personal interest to aid me to get my most outstanding care. The encouragement I get from all of them is phenomenal!
I may come in down and dejected but by the time I leave I feel like there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel!!" [click the link below to read the rest] -Linda

Dr. Giraldo Kato specializes in medical oncology and hematology and has a special interest in breast cancer. His research interests include new breast cancer therapies as well as gastrointestinal and thoracic malignancies.

Dr. Kato joined Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2013, when his team at Pinnacle Oncology Hematology partnered with the practice. Prior to joining Pinnacle Oncology, Dr. Kato served as chief of hematology/oncology at Maricopa Medical Center. He is a member of American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Medical Association and The American Society of Hematology. He is certified by the Medical Oncology Board and American Board of Internal Medicine.

Patient Reviews:

"Dr Kato’s oncology expertise is a gift to his patients!! Diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in 2016, I saw Dr Kato after meeting with several medical oncologists. I remember that appointment to this day. Not only did Dr Kato share his clinical plan with me, he shared a copy of a recently published peer reviewed clinical study that supported his treatment plan for me. Evidence based medicine. I was fortunate to see 4 medical oncologist in a span of a week sometimes multiple times, even after hours to ensure our questions were addressed for which I am immensely thankful. In the end, prayer and faith led me to chose Dr Kato. As a triple negative breast cancer survivor, my treatments were necessarily aggressive and difficult. 5 months of Chemo therapy followed by surgery then full dose of radiation. Through it all, I had Dr Kato and his team by my side. Chemo nurses were incredible and deserve a lot of praise for the work they do..." -Mei

Dr. Robin Obenchain specializes in Hematology and Medical Oncology. She believes in a holistic approach to cancer care integrating both the art and science of medicine uniquely based on an individualized care of each patient and family.

Dr. Obenchain joined Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2016 and has been practicing in the Phoenix area for the past ten years. She has been published in Oncology Publishing Group: Colorectal Cancer in the Elderly Patient: Assessment and Treatment. She has received multiple awards including Association of Pathology Chairs Honor Society, the Higgins Award for outstanding Senior Resident and Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society.

Dr. Obenchain has been named Top Doctor twice in the Phoenix Business Journal and is currently a member of the American College of Hospice and Palliative Medicine.

Patient Reviews:

"These people are awesome. The doctor, her assistant, and the entire staff are wonderful people and they're a pleasure to deal with in what are sometimes not the most ideal conditions. They are extremely helpful, friendly courteous professional and I could go on and on. There is a single bad thing I can say about this practice or anyone who works here. Special shout outs to Dr Robin herself, Carrie, Ashley, Ashton, and Sandy who is no longer with them." -Jim

Dr. Justin Famoso specializes in radiation oncology treating a wide variety of malignant and benign diseases with innovative radiation technologies. He promotes continuity of care and emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach in his practice.

Dr. Famoso specializes in the treatment of malignancies of the breast, prostate, lung, head and neck, gynecologic tract, gastrointestinal tract, skin, central nervous system, hematologic/lymphatic systems, and musculoskeletal systems. He has extensive training with modern radiation treatment technologies and techniques including external beam radiation therapy, IMRT, SBRT, PLUVICTO, and brachytherapy.

Dr. Famoso has authored numerous research articles focused on the combination of immunotherapy and radiation therapies leading to improved patient outcomes. 

He earned a B.S. degree from West Virginia University with a double major in biology and chemistry. He went on to receive his M.D. from West Virginia University before completing his internship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He completed his radiation oncology residency training at the University of Arizona, where he would ultimately serve as chief resident.

Dr. Famoso enjoys golfing, skiing, playing piano, traveling, and viticulture. He is also a passionate West Virginia University Mountaineers sports fan.

Patient Reviews

"I love Dr Famoso and his entire office staff! They are all very caring and attentive. Listens and provides answers and/or options. Highly recommend!!!" -Tamis

"Dr. Famoso and his staff took such good care of me and are so kind and supportive. I look forward to seeing them always. I could not be in in better hands. Thanks so much!" -Davis

Physician Spotlight

Getting diagnosed with cancer is very difficult for patients and their families but getting treatment for cancer should not be. Dr. Agarwal approaches all cancer patients with the goal of giving them the most up-to-date and individualized cancer treatment in an efficient way so they can continue to live their lives as close to normal as possible

Dr. Agarwal specializes in all different types of cancer and blood related problems such as lung, gastrointestinal, prostate, genitourinary, gynecologic, neurologic, lymphomas, leukemia, anemia, platelets clotting disorders, etc.  He is also interested in clinical trials and has completed advanced training in clinical trials and research. In addition, he has published several papers and has presented at national and international cancer meetings.

In his free time, Dr. Agarwal enjoys traveling, watching movies, playing tennis and golf.

Dr. Parmjeet Kumar Banghar specializes in hematology, medical oncology, and internal medicine. He joined Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2008 when his team at Arizona Center for Hematology and Oncology partnered with the practice.

Currently, Dr. Banghar is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and American Society of Hematology. He has participated in a research study involving cerebrovascular diseases and been published in several journals, including Leukemia Research and the Indian Journal of Medical Sciences. He has also presented on a number of topics, including sonographic evaluation of the spleen in sickle cell syndromes, lennox gastaut syndrome and sweet syndrome in a patient with acute myeloid leukemia.

Patient Reviews:

"This doctor is smart and knows cancer. The staff is the best. My nurses who give me shots are the best! Highly reccomend this office." -Lina

"I have been Dr. Banghar's patient since 2019 and just found out I could give him a review. Wish I had been told this before. He is an excellent provider. He has made me feel confident about my treatment which I think has/had a tremendous amount of impact on my care and the outcome. I would recommend him and the facility in a heart beat." -Felicia

A licensed and certified physician assistant, Perry has worked in a variety of healthcare settings throughout her career and particularly enjoys working alongside Dr. Brenda Moorthy at the Virginia G Piper Cancer Care Network Comprehensive Breast Center of Arizona. Perry holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Arizona and a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Midwestern University.

Perry works closely with patients both in the office and during surgery. She is passionate about patient education and makes sure patient questions are always answered.

When Perry is not caring for patients, she loves spending time with her husband, two children, and Boston Terrier. She also enjoys camping, swimming, traveling, and especially, shopping!