Cardiologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Chiropractor providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Dentist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Dermatologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Family Physician providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
OB-GYN providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Ophthalmologist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Orthopedic Surgeon providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Pediatrician providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Physical Therapist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Podiatrist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
Psychiatrist providers include doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants. They often maintain long-term relationships with you and advise and treat you on a range of health related issues.
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.
"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
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.
Dr. Joan Dahmer specializes in hematology, medical oncology, and internal medicine.
Dr. Dahmer joined Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2008 when her team at Arizona Center for Hematology and Oncology partnered with the practice. Prior to joining Arizona Center for Hematology and Oncology in 2002, Dr. Dahmer developed the oncology program at both Maryvale and Memorial Hospitals in Phoenix. She was also Chief of Medicine at Laurentian Hospital in California and has served as a medical consultant for prominent centers and labs.
Dr. Dahmer has been active in the medical community as a past or current member of several organizations, most recently as a member of The Arizona Clinical Oncology Society, the American Society of Hematology, and the Association of Community Cancer Centers, to name a few.
She has also volunteered her time to many health-related causes, including serving as medical director for the HAVEN Program of Northeastern Ohio, a comprehensive program for those infected with and affected by HIV.
She has presented on a number of topics including, medical marijuana, cardiac assessment in home care to home health nurses, women in medicine, oral & lung cancer and medicine as a career.
"Dr. Dahmer is very good, kind, understanding, and very professional 👏." -Cozetta
"Virginia Piper cancer center has the nicest. Most accommodating staff and nurses. Doc Dahmer is the best doctor I have heard of. She is patient. Kind. Incredibly smart. Very thorough. I just love her. You wont be disappointed with her." -Samantha
Dr. Jeans is an Arizona native who returned to join the Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2022 and is excited to be serving the patients of her hometown. She is highly skilled in the most modern treatment techniques and well-versed in utilizing the most up-to-date data to increase cure rates and minimize side effects of treatment.
She was awarded the highest honor from the Mayo Clinic; the Mayo Brothers Distinguished Fellowship Award, due to outstanding clinical performance, humanitarianism, and scholarly activity. She has held innumerable national leadership roles including chair of Society of Women in Radiation Oncology, board member of the Radiation Oncology Education Group, and board member for the American Medical Women’s Association.
Additionally, Dr. Jeans has also opened multiple prospective studies utilizing novel radiotherapy techniques and authored countless papers and textbooks making her an early leader in the field.
In her spare time, Dr. Jeans enjoys spending time with her husband, David, and her immediate and extended family, located throughout the Valley. She enjoys travelling and hiking. Prior to medicine, she was a Physics and Chemistry High School Teacher in inner-city Chicago.
Apart from providing excellent, highly technical care, she is passionate about building patient relationships and helping patients navigate the cancer care journey.
"Dr. Jeans is an outstanding physician who provides knowledgeable and professional healthcare to her patients and demonstrates sincere concern, care, and excellent communication with her patients. What a privilege to have such a wonderful caretaker." -John
"Dr. Jeans was everything I needed during my treatment. She was transparent and explained the situation, treatment options and plan very well. She has maybe the best demeanor and attentiveness of any doctor I have had. Her staff was always friendly and helpful. Thanks Dr. Jeans and staff!" -Scott
Robin is a certified nurse practitioner at the Arizona Center for Cancer Care, working alongside Dr. Parmjeet Banghar. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Ameritech College of Nursing in Draper, Utah, and completed her Master of Nursing at Grand Canyon University, as an Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, with an emphasis on Adult Gerontology.
Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, Robin worked as a registered nurse for Virginia G. Piper Cancer Care. Having extensive experience working in oncology/hematology, she understands the importance of providing a patient-centered approach. Robin is passionate about providing individualized treatment plans and promoting patient advocacy.
In her spare time, Robin enjoys spending time with her family. Shehas three adult children, two boys, Gabriel and Rowan, and one daughter Baylee. She also has an Aussiedoodle, named Bajie. She loves to travel, explore the outdoors, and on occasion play a round of golf.
After graduating from a premier medical school in India, Dr. Fernandes continued her training in Internal Medicine and obtained advanced training in the treatment of blood and cancer disorders in the United States. She was awarded an international prestigious scholarship from the European Society of Medical Oncology and spent time as a visiting fellow in Medical Oncology in Spain.
Her areas of expertise include breast cancers in addition to treating other cancer disorders such as colon cancer, lung cancer, melanoma/skin cancers and blood disorders such as anemias, iron deficiency disorders, abnormal blood counts. She serves as a section editor for Breast Cancer on hemonc.org, an internationally accessed online resource for cancer physicians. She has presented cancer research at national and international cancer meetings in the United States and Europe and volunteers with the American Society of Clinical Oncology for peer review activities.
Dr. Fernandes believes in providing compassionate, exceptional and cutting-edge care to her patients. She strives to provide the most personalized treatment plan for her patients while taking into consideration their unique needs. Having had family members who have also been stricken with cancer, she understands and empathizes with the needs of caring for a loved one with cancer.
Dr. Fernandes enjoys spending time with family, travel, running, and watercolor painting.
Dr. Gerald Lucas is board certified in Radiation Oncology, and a member of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, the American Brachytherapy Society, and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. After completing medical school at Indiana University, and his residency at University of Southern California, he established his practice in 1992 at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix. Dr. Lucas served as the Medical Director of Radiation Oncology services at Good Samaritan until he joined Arizona Oncology in 2008. He practiced there for over a decade prior to joining Arizona Center for Cancer Care.
Dr. Lucas has extensive experience with the utilization of advanced technologies, including image guided radiation therapy (IGRT), intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and brachytherapy. In addition, he is highly skilled and has extensive experience with brachytherapy for the treatment of gynecologic and breast diseases, including accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI). In addition, Dr. Lucas has a special interest in the treatment of prostate, lung, and colorectal tumors, as well as brain tumors and sarcomas. Dr. Lucas is a published writer and speaker on various radiation topics.
"My experience with Dr. Lucas has been excellent. He is willing to spend whatever amount of time you need to fully understand your situation and what options may be available to you. He also went to bat for me with my insurance provider when they initially refused to pay for a particular procedure. He convinced them that it was totally necessary, and they then agreed to cover it. Also, his staff is first class. The whole office has been a joy to work with. Thank you!!" -Gary
"I was recommended to Dr Lucas, MD from my Urologist. Dr Lucas was very professional and spent the appropriate time to make sure I understood all my options and answered all my questions." -Michael
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.
"All the Staff are knowledgeable , understanding and cooperative accommodating to all of our needs." -Mike
"Dr. Reed and all of his staff were exceptionally professional and very friendly and helpful. Dr. Reed made sure I was receiving the best care for my issue and my final tests after treatment showed a great improvement. I highly recommend this Doctor and this facility." -Richard
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. 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.
"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. Anushka Patel is a board-certified radiation oncologist and is an expert in using Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), as well as Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT), to treat a multitude of cancers including those of the breast, lung, head and neck, and gastrointestinal tract. Dr. Patel is experienced in the delivery of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for intracranial, spinal, and lung treatments. She is also a radiation oncology attending for the Honor Health Dermatology Residency Program.
Dr. Patel joined Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2014. She has published and presented at national meetings on SRS for brain metastases from breast cancer, SBRT for central lung lesions, and radiographic abnormalities detected at the time of CT simulation.
Dr. Patel has been practicing in the Scottsdale and Deer Valley regions since 2009 and believes in taking a personalized and individualistic approach towards all her patients. She is known for going the above and beyond to ensure patients and their families have a full understanding of the diagnosis and overall treatment plan.
Dr. Patel is a member of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, American Society for Clinical Oncology, American College of Radiation Oncology, and Radiological Society of North America. Dr. Patel has been honored as a “Top Doc” by Phoenix Magazine.
"Dr. Anushka Patel is a fabulous Radiation Oncologist. She saved my life 2.5 years ago. Besides her knowledge and providing me with the best care she is so compassionate and comforting. She always listens, has thorough explanations and takes time with me. We need more physicians love me Dr. Patel." -Eileen
"Dr. Patel was very thorough and provided me an opportunity to ask as many questions as I needed to without feeling rushed! She truly cares about her patients and I look forward to her treatment plan!" -Jenifer
Arizona Center for Cancer Care is a cancer center without walls, offering the best doctors, best treatments, best technologies, and best research to give patients the best care possible. With offices in Avondale, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise, Anthem, Peoria, Fountain Hills, Wickenburg, Apache Junction, Sun City, Sun City West, Goodyear, Prescott Valley, and Tempe, Arizona, the multi-specialty practice cares for more than 30,000 patients across the Valley.
The practice uses the most current treatment options available, including various forms of radiation oncology and medical oncology, and hematology. The center also includes experts in gynecologic oncology and breast surgery and has a newly diagnosed breast cancer clinic.
The board-certified radiation oncologists at Arizona Center for Cancer Care use positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging to reveal the presence and severity of cancer and create an effective treatment plan.
Dedicated to providing its patients with the most current drugs and therapies available, Arizona Center for Cancer Care participates in multiple clinical trials.
Cancer is a disease of survivors, and Arizona Center for Cancer Care is keeping it that way.
For comprehensive, high-quality cancer care, call Arizona Center for Cancer Care or schedule an appointment online today. Telemedicine appointments are available.
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
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
Dr. Sanjeev Gopal is a board-certified specialist in medical oncology and hematology with Arizona Center for Cancer Care and Virginia G. Piper Cancer Care Network.
With offices in Apache Junction, Mesa and Gilbert, Dr. Gopal is committed to providing the highest level of care with a priority of treating each patient and their families with utmost respect. It is important to Dr. Gopal to not only prolong lives of his patients, but to improve the quality of their lives.
"Dr Gopal is fabulous! He is really focused on you and what you are going through! Compassionate and knowledgeable!" -Pat
"Dr. Gopal and his staff are without a doubt the EXCEPTION TO TODAY'S IMPRESSION OF MEDICAL PROVIDERS! Dr. Gopal obviously took the time to hire his staff, because they are just as compassionate, caring, kind and loving as him. Trust me, I am qualified to make these statements; not my first rodeo, ya'll. I don't typically take the time for reviews, but for Dr. Gopal, I absolutely will make an exception as he deserves all the recognition for who he simply is, as a person (I think). Dr. Gopal took a personal interest in my care from the moment I was referred to him. "Bedside manner?" Dr. Gopal treated me like a "person" he cares for, like family. Therefore, that term is not relevant. If you ask me, that is a good thing!...' -Heidi
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. DiPasquale is a specialized breast surgeon with expertise in treating both malignant and benign breast diseases. Her passion lies in advanced oncoplastic reconstructive surgery, where she combines oncological principles with plastic surgery techniques. She strives to ensure excellent oncological outcomes while also prioritizing cosmetic results and patient satisfaction.
Originally from the east coast of Canada, Dr. DiPasquale completed her medical training at Dalhousie University. Following this, she pursued her General Surgery Residency at the University of Alberta. During her residency, she also earned a Master of Science degree at the prestigious Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where her research was recognized with an award from the Canadian Federation of University Women.
To further refine her skills and broaden her expertise, Dr. DiPasquale completed a breast oncoplastic and reconstruction surgery fellowship at the renowned Paris Breast Center. She is proud to hold board certifications from both the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the American Board of Surgery.
Dr. DiPasquale's contributions extend beyond her clinical practice. She has co-authored numerous research papers and actively presents her work at international conferences. Additionally, she serves as a peer reviewer for international journals.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. DiPasquale cherishes quality time spent with her loved ones, including her family, friends, and her beloved Yorkie. After escaping the cold Canadian winters, she also enjoys spending time outdoors in the warm Arizona sun.
Dr. Andrew J. Buresh specializes in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine. He is interested in all aspects of clinical oncology and hematology, with a particular interest in gastrointestinal, breast, lung, and prostate cancer, as well as myelodysplasia, coagulation disorders, lymphoma, and myeloma.
Dr. Buresh joined Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2013 when Desert Springs Cancer Care Center, which he founded and partnered with the practice. He is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Hematology and Arizona State Physicians Association.
Dr. Buresh is a multi-year “Top Doc” honoree by Phoenix Magazine and was chosen for the cover of the annual ranking magazine in 2013. He was also honored by the Phoenix Business Journal as among its “40 Top Business Leaders under Age 40.”
Dr. Buresh and his wife are blessed to be the proud parents of three beautiful children. When not caring for patients, Dr. Buresh enjoys spending his time with family, exercising, reading, playing basketball, golf, guitar, and coaching youth sports. He also speaks basic medical Spanish.
"Warm and caring in all aspects of care. He’s special in his approach and looks at the big picture. Spends a lot of time asking questions and is conservative in his approach. So glad I was referred to him and will continue to refer him to others. Don’t be afraid~ take him on your journey with you!" -Robin
Dr. Gunia is one of the few sub-specialty fellowship-trained Breast Surgical Oncologists in Scottsdale and is committed to the evaluation and treatment of breast disease. She is dedicated to bringing the highest level of breast care to the valley by incorporating her expertise in the newest technologies and advancements available for both the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Her training included the oncoplastic surgical technique, which combines the principles of cancer removal with optimal cosmetic results.
After earning an undergraduate degree at Arizona State University, she obtained her medical degree from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. Dr. Gunia completed general surgery training through Ohio University and further specialized in Breast Surgical Oncology at Akron General Medical Center in Ohio. She is also on the board for Check for a Lump, a local non-profit that provides free breast health education, mammograms, testing, and direct assistance to breast cancer patients.
Dr. Gunia enjoys playing cards, country line dancing, relaxing by the pool with a good book, traveling, attending concerts, and spending time with her husband, Steve, their two tabby cats, and their two miniature dachshunds.
"Extremely nice stuff. They make you feel welcome. Dr. Gunia is a highly qualified professional that gave me reassurance everything is going to be okay. She is very kind and the best, she took the time to explain my options. Very pleased with my first time appointment." -Marie
"Dr. Gunia is hands down the best surgeon I’ve ever had. She was extremely personable and caring, and explained everything to me in “regular person”-speech, not doctor lingo. She ended up doing a partial mastectomy in my R breast, removing a large lump which was thankfully not malignant. I will definitely use her again if I have any further issues with my breasts. I HIGHLY recommend her as a surgeon and a breast doctor!" -Juleah
