Damarla, M.D., MPH, Vijay K. - Illinois CancerCare

Locations

Board Certifications

Hematology/Medical Oncology, Internal Medicine

Staff Education

Dr. Damarla attended medical school at Rangaraya Medical College in India. He then completed a Master of Public Health (MPH), Epidemiology from East Tennessee State University and an Internal Medicine Residency at Saint Joseph Mercy Health System in Ann Abor, Michigan. He completed a fellowship in Experimental Therapeutics at Cleveland Clinic, Ohio, followed by a Hematology and Oncology Fellowship at the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan.

Work History

Dr. Damarla began his practice of hematology/oncology at Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois at their main office located in Decatur before joining Illinois Cancer Care in 2021.

When did you join Illinois CancerCare?

October 2021

Hobbies / Interests

Biking, Hiking, and Travelling

What medical change has impacted the field of cancer the most since you began practicing medicine?

"The advances in immunotherapies, genomics and a better understanding of the biology of cancer lead to significant improvement in clinical outcomes for many patients with cancer."

Why did you choose your field?

"I chose oncology because it is one of the fields in medicine where you practice a combination of science and humanity. Treating patients with cancer is very rewarding and the science behind cancer research, the way it is evolving and transforming the lives of patients and families is fascinating."

Why did you choose Illinois CancerCare?

"I have been in the Midwest for the past decade and started my career in oncology in Illinois. I chose Illinois CancerCare because of the mission to provide comprehensive, compassionate care, commitment to research, and providing access to clinical trials for patients."

Do you have any advice to give patients after they have been diagnosed with cancer?

"I want my patients to understand that they are not alone, and ‘we’ are all in this together. I partner with them from the very beginning and through every step of their care. I help them understand the diagnosis, risks, and benefits of treatment options, and to choose what is best for them."

Patient Testimonials

Dr. Damarla cares about his patients. He goes over my bloodwork with me and answers my many questions. He listens to my concerns and does research on what he feels will help with my medical condition. He has a quiet demeanor which is very calming.

Very caring and compassionate! Makes sure I completely understand my situation and treatment!

Easy to understand and easy to talk to .

I have been a patient of Dr. Damarla for several years and highly recommend him for others who are dealing with blood disorders and cancer.

I have been a patient of Dr. Damarla for several years. He is very knowledgeable and has been quite supportive during my cancer treatment. I highly recommend him to others who are dealing with blood disorders like me.

Dr Damarla is very pleasant and diligent. He puts me at ease, and is knowledgeable about my cancer.

He was so helpful with issues that I had physically and personally. I really appreciated all that he and the staff did to help me.

He took the time to talk to me and I never felt rushed.

Dr. Demarla really cares about your wellbeing and always tries to ensure you understand treatment.

Dr. Damarla always answers all questions in a easy to understand manner.

The staff here is wonderful ! Caring accommodating and skilled, Dr. Damarla giving me the right treatments have shown monumental results, couldn't be more pleased, THANKYOU everyone !

Dr Damarla made me feel as if I was his only patient. He listened to my story and answered all my questions. His explanation was easy to understand. Even though I have medical training and understand medical terms, he explained his findings so that my husband could understand. I feel very comfortable in his care. I have recommended him to others.