Welcome Dr. Balakrishna

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.”