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.
Rezwan Chowdhury, MD is dual board certified by the American Board of Radiology, and The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons (Canada), in Radiation Oncology. He completed his residency and Medical Doctorate at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He has a special interest in breast cancer, lung cancer, SBRT, brachytherapy, PLUVICTO, LUTATHERA, and treats all tumor sites.
Dr. Chowdhury is fellowship trained in brachytherapy, including all modalities of breast brachytherapy. He has specialized training and is experienced in treating lung cancer, brain metastases and oligo-metastases using SBRT/SRS techniques. Dr. Chowdhury has over 5 years of clinical academic experience at the University of British Columbia/BC Cancer Agency, where he was a clinical instructor to medical students, residents and fellows and served as the Chair of the SBRT program, thoracic tumor site and breast brachytherapy program. Dr Chowdhury has extensive research experience and has published his findings and presented to other specialty physicians around the world.
Dr. Chowdhury joined Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2021 and has been treating patients throughout the Phoenix metro area for nearly a decade. Dr. Chowdhury believes in using evidenced based medicine, and a compassionate approach that places an emphasis on his patient’s individual needs and desires.
"Very knowledgeable and very good with patients, taking time to fully inform about options." -Ed
"Dr. Chowdhury explains all procedures and treatments thoroughly and takes time to answer any questions the patient may have prior and during treatment." -Ralph
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. Azadi specializes in specializes in Neuro-Oncology, focusing on brain, spine, skull-based tumors and head and neck malignancies (many of which are listed below). His expertise includes the diagnosis and treatment of brain and head & neck tumors. Dr. Azadi’s research interests include precision medicine and immunotherapy in primary and secondary brain tumors.
Acoustic neuroma
Astrocytoma
Benign nervous system tumor
Brain cancer
Brain metastasis
Brain tumor
Chordoma
Choroid plexus papilloma
Ependymoma
Glioblastoma
Glioma
Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis (LC),
Meningioma
Neurofibroma
Neurofibromatosis
Oligodendroglioma
Peripheral nerve tumor
Pituitary tumor
Secondary brain tumors
Spinal cord tumor
Dr. Azadi’s priority is to provide his patients with personalized, compassionate care using the most up-to-date treatment options. He listens to his patients, and collaboratively they choose the best treatment option for their cancer. He strives to deliver the most effective cancer management and treatment strategies, while providing encouragement and support for his patients.
In his free time, Dr. Azadi enjoys all sports, especially tennis and mountain biking.
"Dr Azadi has been treating my husband who has Glioblastoma Vi since diagnosis. He is very kind and one of the few Doctors we have worked with who has been honest with us. He is also the only one who suggested trials which we are very excited about. Dr Azadi has made himself completely reachable when I have any issues come up. He responds so quickly and always with a helpful solution." -Rhonda
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
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. Subhakar Mutyala is board certified in Radiation Oncology and has a board subspecialty certification in Brachytherapy. He has held numerous prestigious positions, including Medical Director of Radiation Medicine at The University of Arizona Cancer Center at St. Joseph’s, Chairman of Radiation Oncology and Associate Director at Scott and White Cancer Institute, and Director of Brachytherapy at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Mutyala has extensive experience in IMRT, stereotactic radiosurgery, 3D conformal radiation therapy and unsealed radionuclide treatment. He has expertise in treating a wide range of cancers, with expertise in gynecologic cancers, pelvic tumors, prostate cancer, breast cancer, sarcomas, skin cancers, and brachytherapy.
Dr. Mutyala has authored over 40 publications and book chapters, and lectures nationally and internationally, including for the Harvard Brachytherapy Annual Review and the American Society of Radiation Oncology.
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
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. 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
Dr. Cory Heal is a radiation oncologist who has expertise in a full breadth of radiation oncology treatments for both malignant and benign diseases in children and adults.
Before joining Arizona Center for Cancer Care, Dr. Heal received a Bachelor of Science from Brigham Young University and his Medical Doctorate from Drexel University. He then completed an internship in Internal Medicine at Abington Memorial Hospital and a residency in radiation oncology at the University of Arizona, where he served as Chief Resident.
Dr. Heal specializes in the treatment of malignancies of the breast, prostate, lung, skin, head and neck, gynecological tract, gastrointestinal tract, central nervous system, hematologic/lymphatic systems, and musculoskeletal systems. He also treats a wide array of benign diseases that benefit from radiation. Dr. Heal utilizes the latest treatment techniques in his practice, including Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS), Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT), PLUVICTO, LUTATHERA, and Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR/SBRT). Dr. Heal has additional specialized training and research interests in the use of HDR brachytherapy for several anatomic sites. His other research interests include patient safety and quality improvement.
An Arizona native who grew up in the East Valley, Dr. Heal feels privileged to serve the community he loves. He always seeks to be an advocate for his patients as he guides them through treatment. He enjoys the lasting relationships he develops with his patients and their families and feels honored to take part in their care.
Dr. Heal and his wife, Emily, have four children. Outside of medicine, Dr. Heal loves spending his free time being a dad, cooking new foods in the kitchen, and making memories with his family outdoors.
"Dr. Heal and his team were so thorough and thoughtful with explanations which reduced my anxiety and made daily radiation appointments very easy to manage!" -Wendy
"Couldn't be more satisfied with Dr. Heal. He's a wonderful person both personally and professionally, making sure to explain every aspect of the treatment for my brain cancer, as well as being an all-around good guy! I'm a lucky man." - Daniel
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.
"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. Steven Sckolnik is a board certified radiation oncologist and has expertise in the management of breast, prostate and gastrointestinal cancers. He has a particular interest in utilizing new and advanced treatment techniques to minimize side effects. He most enjoys developing long-lasting relationships with his patients that extend beyond their treatments. He is a Scottsdale native and returned home to join Arizona Center for Cancer Care in 2016. He received a bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University in Chicago and a medical degree from the University of Arizona in Tucson.
Dr. Sckolnik is a member of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, American Brachytherapy Society, American College of Radiology and the Arizona Radiological Society.
Dr. Sckolnik also enjoys cooking, traveling, colorful socks, skiing and Arizona Wildcats basketball.
"Marissa and Dr. Sckolnik are 2 of the most compasionate, supportive people you could ask for in a difficult medical situation. They are kind, thoughtful, and in your corner to make sure you get the best possible care available. I'm very grateful they are the team taking care of me." -Sue
"Very bright, great algorithms for diagnosis and treatment..excellent coordination between urology radiology, and oncology, great follow-up ( a lost art theze days.) Extremely personable couldn't ask for a better person or physician!!!" -Walter
Janice is a dedicated hematology/oncology nurse practitioner who collaborates closely with physicians and other healthcare team members to deliver comprehensive care, offering unwavering support to patients and caregivers during treatment and beyond. With over 12 years of experience as a hematology, oncology, and bone marrow transplant nurse, Janice has worked with medically complex neonates, pediatrics, and adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She earned both a bachelor's and a master's degree from the University of Phoenix and is nationally certified as a Nurse Practitioner by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. Passionate about patient advocacy and education, Janice seeks to empower patients by listening to their health needs and goals and working in partnership with them and their families to manage their health effectively.
Gregory A. Maggass, MD is board certified in radiation oncology, with a focus on the treatment of prostate cancer with both brachytherapy and IMRT/IGRT radiation therapy. Dr. Maggass has extensive experience with brachytherapy treatment using radioactive seeds, otherwise known as Internal Radiation Therapy. He is a pioneer in bringing Brachytherapy to patients in Arizona treating prostate, skin, eye and breast cancers. Dr. Maggass also specializes in PLUVICTO for prostate cancer treatment and LUTATHERA for neuroendocrine cancer treatment.
Passionate about advancing treatments in cancer care, Dr. Maggass played an instrumental role in developing improved treatments for delivering radiation, as well as combining radiation with surgical techniques and chemotherapy.
For nearly two decades, Dr. Maggass served as the Medical Director for Arizona Oncology Services in the East Valley. In this role, he started and lead the prostate brachytherapy program at Banner Desert Medical Center and Banner Baywood. In 2012, Dr. Maggass partnered with Arizona Center for Cancer Care to expand the groups footprint into the East Valley.
Dr. Maggass received his Medical Degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin. He completed his residency at the University of Southern California Medical Center, where he received specialized training in Brachytherapy.
Dr. Maggass is a multi-year “Top Doc” honoree by Phoenix Magazine, and “Best Doctors in America” honoree by Best Doctors, Inc.
"I needed a calm, straight forward explanation of my situation to make a choice in treatment. Dr. Maggass took his time and was genuinely engaged when he talked to my wife and I and he even let me talk once more on the phone when I had more questions. I would recommend him." -Wade
"Dr Maggass has been fantastic! Excellent bedside manner, and has always been forthright me. We are early on in this journey, but feel I am in good hands with both doctor, and his wonderful staff." -Jeff
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.
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.
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. 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
