Please join us in welcoming Sumaira Zareef, MD, MPH to the team of physicians at Hematology Oncology Associates.

Dr. Zareef has always found it rewarding to care for patients in underserved communities, where access to high-quality medical care is often limited. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she worked as an emergency medical hospitalist in The Bronx, caring for patients during that extraordinarily challenging time. “I gained a deep appreciation for compassionate, accessible healthcare in that environment,” says Dr. Zareef.

Subsequently trained as a Hematology Oncology physician in rural Eastern North Carolina, Dr. Zareef cared for patients facing significant barriers to specialized treatments. Throughout her career, Dr. Zareef has had the privilege of working with patients across the nation, including in New York City, Houston, and North Carolina.

“I am so grateful to continue this journey here in Oregon” says Dr. Zareef. “I find it incredibly rewarding to care for patients who are living with a cancer diagnosis. I consider myself fortunate to be part of their journey during what can be some of the most challenging times in their lives. For me, caring for these patients goes beyond simply following standard guidelines. It’s about listening to each individual, understanding what matters most to them, and developing a thoughtful, personalized plan that aligns with their values and priorities. Partnering with patients in this way, and helping guide them through their treatment journey, is one of the most meaningful aspects of what I do.”

Dr. Zareef feels called to work with patients facing acute and chronic blood disorders and cancer. “Despite all the changes in modern medical technology, my work gives me the opportunity to connect with people. I do my best to make a difference.”

After finishing her Hematology Oncology fellowship, Dr. Zareef moved to Southern Oregon to join HOA. “I was looking for a place where I could serve patients while also having quality time with family members living in the Pacific Northwest.”

Please join us in welcoming Heather Hayes, APRN, FNP-C to the team of advance care providers at Hematology Oncology Associates.

Heather joins HOA as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Heather previously worked as a nephrology Registered Nurse in a chronic outpatient hemodialysis setting. This experience allowed her to care for patients with complex, chronic conditions and taught Heather the importance of continuity of care, patient education, and interdisciplinary collaboration. “But even more important,” Heather believes, “is building a trusting relationship with my patients and their families.”

“My passion for oncology is both personal and deeply meaningful,” says Heather. “I’ve experienced the loss of family members and close friends to cancer. This has given me a personal understanding of the profound impact a cancer diagnosis can have on both patients and their loved ones.”

Heather’s connection to oncology began early in life through her mother, who worked as an outpatient oncology nurse for nearly 20 years. “Growing up with my mom’s perspective gave me a unique appreciation for the compassion, strength, and dedication needed to caring for people navigating cancer. These experiences have shaped my desire to provide meaningful support to patients and families during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.”

At the heart of Heather’s approach to patient care is the belief that she is caring for a person, not simply treating a diagnosis. “I want my patients to feel heard, respected, informed, and supported. I believe being a good Family Nurse Practitioner means not only providing thoughtful, evidence-based care, but also being present, listening without judgment, advocating for my patients, and taking the time to make sure they understand their treatment. Sometimes, the most meaningful impact we can make is simply taking an extra moment to answer a question, provide reassurance, or remind someone that they don’t have to navigate their healthcare journey alone.”

Heather was drawn to HOA because of the opportunity to care for patients and families who need a compassionate, knowledgeable, and attentive advocate throughout their cancer journey. She works with a team dedicated to providing exceptional, patient-centered hematology and oncology care. “I look forward to learning from my colleagues, to continue to growing as an advanced practice provider, and to build meaningful relationships with the patients who entrust me with their care.”

Please join us in welcoming Tariq Khreis, MD to the team of physicians at Hematology Oncology Associates.

After a residency at Albany Medical College in New York, Dr. Khreis performed his fellowship in Hematology / Oncology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City. During his fellowship, Dr. Khreis participated in a study that highlights how Native American populations respond to immunotherapy treatment for various cancers.

“Being able to take care of cancer patients is profoundly moving,” says Dr. Khreis. “I’ve always known I wanted to take care of this population. I am here to listen to patients first and foremost, and address their needs. I will guide them through their journey and be with them every step of the way.”

A culture of cooperation is important to Dr. Khreis. “I’m thankful to be at Hematology Oncology Associates,” says Dr. Khreis. “Everyone is so genuine here. The clinic works above and beyond to help me address the needs of my patients.”

Outside the office, Dr. Khreis enjoys CrossFit and he works out almost every day.
He appreciates all the outdoor activities Southern Oregon has to offer and he’s been busy exploring the many hiking trails in and around the valley.

Please join us in welcoming Susan E. Smith, MD to the team of physicians at Hematology Oncology Associates.

Dr. Smith performed her internal medicine internship and residency at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center. She earned her oncology fellowship from the University of Arizona Cancer Center.

“Cancer care requires navigating an intersection of rapidly changing science, and uniquely individual human experiences,” says Dr. Smith. “It is an honor to assist in the care of patients with cancer.”

Please join us in welcoming Pragathi Balakrishna, MD to the team of physicians at Hematology Oncology Associates.

Dr. Balakrishna graduated from medical school and earned a Masters in Pharmacology and Therapeutics from two prestigious medical colleges in India. She was awarded for her stellar research and academic performance, graduating at the top of her university’s program.

While studying in India, Dr. Balakrishna participated in a polio immunization campaign that provided polio vaccine to children under 5 years with the ultimate goal of eradicating polio in India.

Dr. Balakrishna became a resident at the Orange Park Medical Center in Florida where she won the American College of Physicians (ACP) Adult Immunization and Quality Improvement competition which seeks to increase the rates of adult immunization through education. Dr. Balakrishna completed her fellowship in Hematology and Oncology from the University of Oklahoma Health Science Center in Oklahoma City.

Pragathi has always wanted help people. Her uncle and close friend’s mother are physicians, and she was inspired by them to become a doctor. “Cancer patients are the strongest and most resilient people. Helping them is very satisfying to me. My patients help make me a better person by teaching empathy and humility.”

Pragathi and her husband visited southern Oregon for the first time in 2013. They loved the surroundings and outdoor activities, especially hiking with their kids. Every day, Dr. Balakrishna endeavors to make a difference in both her personal and professional life. “I believe in patient-oriented healthcare,” says Pragahthi. “I strive to provide compassionate and comprehensive cancer care to each one of my patients.”