Biography

 

I earned my undergraduate, graduate, and medical degrees at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I did my residency and fellowship training at UC San Diego. Afterward, I remained for a year at UC San Diego as part of the faculty before moving to Los Angeles and Kaiser Permanente’s Los Angeles Medical Center.

 

About my practice

 

My Cancer Subspecialty

My clinical practice is primarily focused on GI oncology, in which I provide specialized care for members with cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. My work in this subspecialty allows me to offer the latest treatment options and support members through their treatment journey, drawing on a deep understanding of the complexities of GI cancers.
 

National Expertise on Multidisciplinary Teams

I have extensive expertise in multidisciplinary oncology care at both the regional and national levels, with a strong focus on GI oncology. Regionally, I participate in several key multidisciplinary teams, including the GI Tumor Board, the Rectal Cancer Tumor Board, and the Molecular Genetics Tumor Board. I am also actively involved with the Kaiser Permanente Research Bank, the National Genomic Oncology Committee, and the National GI Cancer Committee.
 

These roles allow me to work closely with a broad team of specialist surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, geneticists, pharmacists, nurses, and social workers to provide team-based, personalized care that aligns with the latest advancements in cancer treatment. This approach ensures that each member benefits from a coordinated and comprehensive treatment plan.
 

In addition, I serve as co-chair of the Southern California Regional Gastroenterology Oncology Committee, where I have contributed to the development of the National Kaiser Permanente Oncology Care Pathways. These guidelines, based on evidence and current research, are designed to standardize and elevate the quality of care across our organization, ensuring that members receive effective and up-to-date treatments.
 

Research and Clinical Trials

As a physician and researcher, I serve as the director of the Southern California Cancer Clinical Trials Access Program, where I lead initiatives to expand access to state-of-the-art treatments across the region. I am also the regional principal investigator for Kaiser Permanente’s NCORP (NCI Community Oncology Research Program), overseeing clinical trial operations and introducing research into standard oncology care. This involvement allows me to bring leading-edge research into my practice, offering members access to innovative treatments that may not yet be available outside of research settings. My participation in SWOG, NRG Oncology, and Alliance cooperative groups further strengthens my ability to contribute to the ongoing evolution of cancer treatments.
 

Professional Affiliations 

I am actively involved in several oncology and research organizations, including:

• American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
• American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ASGCT)
• SWOG GI Committee/Working Group
• NRG Oncology Medical Oncology and Colorectal Cancer Committees
• ASGCT Government Relations Committee
• Kaiser Permanente NCORP
• NSABP (National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project) Foundation

How I thrive

 

Outside of my professional life, I believe in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring new places, and engaging in activities that help me recharge. I also have a keen interest in molecular biology and cancer research, which inspire my work and research pursuits. In addition, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, appreciating the simple joys of life and keeping perspective on what truly matters.