Philosophy of care | Effective medical care begins with a deep understanding of each patient’s circumstances and needs. The physician-patient relationship is foundational and must be a two-way dialogue built on trust and respect. I prioritize learning what truly matters to you and your family. I offer treatment recommendations and options that align with your values, preferences and goals. While my clinical focus is on blood disorders and blood cancers, listening carefully and tailoring care to patients is the heart of everything I do. I provide guidance and recommendations, but the decisions ultimately belong to you, the patient. I strongly believe in a team-based approach, where collaboration and communication yield the best outcomes. | Why I entered medicine | When I started college, medicine was the farthest thing from my mind; I was an economics major and took the MCAT on a whim. To my surprise, I scored far better than expected for someone without a science background, and that led me to medical school. Looking back, I can’t imagine doing anything else. Medicine – and caring for patients – has become my true passion. My path into the field was unconventional but led me exactly where I was meant to be. Practicing hematology and oncology isn’t just a career for me – it’s the only thing I can see myself doing. | Community involvement | As a part of cancer center leadership, I participate in local events and charities for patients with cancer and blood diseases, including speaking to the leukemia/lymphoma society. I am particularly fond of events centered around running for cancer charities. | Personal interests | Running is a personal passion of mine – second only to medicine and my family. Dr. Lash is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Lung Cancer, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Large-Cell Immunoblastic Lymphoma, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

Paul Palyca is a Hematologist and an Oncologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Palyca has been practicing medicine for over 17 years and is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Large-Cell Immunoblastic Lymphoma, Multiple Myeloma, Urothelial Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

Don Park is a Hematologist and an Oncologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Park is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Primary Lymphoma of the Brain, Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia without Maturation, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

Philosophy of care | My philosophy is to treat others as I would like to be treated. I enjoy helping patients understand their medical problem in order to make an informed decision. | Also, I am a member of the breast cancer and genetic cancer multidisciplinary consultation teams. Together we review your diagnostic information and give you a written opinion reflecting the scope of your condition and recommendations for your best course of care. | Why I entered medicine | My uncle is an emergency medicine physician who inspired me to become a doctor and encouraged me through my training. To this day, I still seek his advice. I chose hematology oncology because I enjoy taking care of patients who are confronting serious health challenges. My mother had breast cancer and she was helped greatly by her physicians and a recently developed targeted therapy called Herceptin. I feel optimistic that the field is rapidly evolving due to scientific breakthroughs and will continue to do so throughout my career. I want to be a part of helping people during this exciting time. | Community involvement | I volunteered in a free clinic during my training. | Personal interests | I’m married and have two boys. I like to stay active. I teach my boys sports, go hiking or take my golden retriever, Charlie, for a walk. Dr. Lamparella is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Paget Disease of the Breast, Breast Cancer, Inflammatory Breast Cancer, Tissue Biopsy, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

Muhammad Rizvi is a Hematologist and an Oncologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Rizvi is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Philadelphia-Negative Chronic Myeloid Leukemia, Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML), Familial Colorectal Cancer, Paget Disease of the Breast, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

Simi Rai is a Hematologist and an Oncologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Rai is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Her top areas of expertise are Colorectal Cancer, Neuroendocrine Tumor, Familial Colorectal Cancer, and Paget Disease of the Breast.

Philosophy of care | As a physician dedicated to the comprehensive care of cancer patients, my philosophy centers on empathy, communication and personalized treatment. I build a trusting and compassionate relationship with my patients, ensuring they are fully informed about their condition and treatment options. I am committed to understanding their unique goals and wishes and tailoring their treatment plans accordingly. I integrate leading-edge advancements by offering participation in clinical trials, contributing to the progress of oncology care. My goal is not only to provide exceptional medical expertise, but also to support and empower patients, fostering collaboration that prioritizes physical and emotional well-being. | Why I entered medicine | I chose a medical career with a specific focus on cancer care because it offered me the opportunity to seamlessly merge the dynamic advancements in cancer biology with the profound personal connections essential for understanding and supporting my patients. The ever-evolving science of cancer has fascinated me, driving my commitment to staying at the forefront of breakthroughs and innovations. However, it is the deeply personal nature of medicine that truly inspires me – the privilege of learning about my patients, understanding their unique stories and collaborating with them as they heal. This dual passion for scientific progress and compassionate patient care motivates me. | Community involvement | I contribute to public education with the presentation, detection and treatment of lung cancers. In doing so I empower individuals with knowledge, foster early detection and encourage proactive engagement in their lung health. | Personal interests | I have a deep love for exploring diverse cultures through culinary adventures, mastering the art of cooking international cuisine and indulging in the creativity of baking. I am also passionate about personal fitness, recognizing the importance of a healthy and balanced lifestyle. My love for international travel serves as inspiration, allowing me to broaden my perspectives and immerse myself in different societies. Such pursuits allow me to connect with patients on a more personal level, fostering a holistic approach to health care. Dr. Patson is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Lung Cancer, Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), Richter Syndrome, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

William Scialla is a Hematologist and an Oncologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Scialla is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Heyde Syndrome, Von Willebrand Disease (VWD), Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Lung Cancer, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

Usama Gergis is a Hematologist and an Oncologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Gergis is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Graft Versus Host Disease (GvHD), Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Multiple Myeloma, Bone Marrow Transplant, and Bone Graft.

Philosophy of care | In my area we’re dealing with people who are frightened. I’m trying to help patients deal with all of the information they’ve been hearing, and I’m trying to dispel all of the myths. It’s a matter of education and mutual trust. I’m there to do whatever I can do for them, even if it’s just a matter of easing their pain. | Also, I am a member of the thoracic cancer multidisciplinary consultation team. Together we review your diagnostic information and give you a written opinion reflecting the scope of your condition and recommendations for your best course of care. | Why I entered medicine | Medicine was not my first choice. I wanted to be first oboe in the New York Philharmonic. I have a love of biochemistry and science, and I like people. One day, I just decided I wanted to be a doctor. I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world. | Community involvement | I’m part of the National Cancer Institute’s community cancer program. Our goal is to be able to give the same care and treatment to everyone, whether they have health insurance or not. | Personal interests | I still play the oboe and will always have a love of music. I’m an avid cyclist, and I enjoy skiing. Dr. Friedman is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Lung Cancer, Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

Philosophy of care | I believe in involving patients in every step of their journey, specifically by incorporating your beliefs and viewpoints into the treatment plan for personalized and compatible care. Cancer treatment is rapidly advancing and the personalized care now extends to understanding each patient's unique tumor biology with the goal of targeted therapy. I see the field only getting more exciting as we discover new diagnostic and therapeutic means for achieving unprecedented results and improving quality of life. | Why I entered medicine | One thing that drew me to oncology was the level of depth at which the doctor-patient relationship functioned. I have always appreciated the enormous responsibility we as physicians have to our patients and their loved ones with regards to transparency and evidence-based care and this is paramount when treating someone with cancer or a blood disorder. | Community involvement | As a medical student, I participated in a medical service trip to the Himalayas in Northern India where we camped at various sites to establish tent clinics as a means of providing care to local people who otherwise would not have had access. Medical aid abroad has always been a passion of mine and in the future, I would very much like the opportunity to participate in similar programs to provide oncologic care and preventative services in developing nations as well as on the home front. | Personal interests | I enjoy traveling with my family. I am of Italian origin and enjoy visiting Italy to tour historical sites, try different local dishes, and spend time with family and friends. I love running for multiple reasons and lately have participated in the Philadelphia Half Marathon for the past few years and train by trail running with my four-legged companions. My wife and I bond over cooking together and we both enjoy hiking, exploring the outdoors, and going to the orchestra and theater for productions. Dr. Fratamico is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), and Prostate Cancer.

Philosophy of care | Personalized care starts during my first meeting with a patient and family. That's when I get to know the patient as completely as possible. I want to know about the patient's concerns, values and support system so I can provide care that is specific to him or her. | Also, I am a member of the skin and soft tissue cancer multidisciplinary consultation team. Together we review your diagnostic information and give you a written opinion reflecting the scope of your condition and recommendations for your best course of care. | Why I entered medicine | When I was young, I didn't like seeing doctors. It created a lot of anxiety for me. Now that I'm older, I can relate to the way people feel, especially when they're coping with the emotions caused by a serious condition like cancer. My grandmother died of uterine cancer in the 1960s. During her battle, I felt helpless. That is what attracted me to cancer research. Now I see the amazing progress we are making through cancer research. | Community involvement | I served on the state board of the American Cancer Society. Today, I take more of a grassroots approach to offer my support. I participate in events, such as 5K runs, that benefit charities. Dr. Nair is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are WT1-Related Wilms Tumor Syndromes, Clear Cell Sarcoma, Adult Soft Tissue Sarcoma, and Melanoma.

Tara Morrison is a Neurologist and a Hematologist Oncology provider in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Morrison is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Her top areas of expertise are Astrocytoma, Glioblastoma, Ependymoma, and Glioma.

"Philosophy of care | My philosophy of care is patient-centered. I believe in a strong doctor and patient relationship that involves mutual respect, honesty, compassion and personal responsibility. I believe an essential part of ""doctoring"" is providing quality medical care in a caring atmosphere where every patient is heard and treated as a unique individual. | Why I entered medicine | Ever since I could remember I had always wanted to go into medicine. I am one of seven children. My mother was a nurse and she always encouraged me to enter the medical profession. She entered nursing school when I was 8 years old. I was brought up watching her study, listening to stories about patients and the hospital. My enthusiasm for medicine continued in high school and college; I loved the sciences. When it was time to fill out my application, I knew being a doctor would enable me to make a positive and meaningful difference in the lives of people when they need it most, and there are not many professions that give us that privilege. | Community involvement | I remain active in the community supporting my church, childrens schools and sports teams. I am also active in the American Heart Association's Lehigh Valley chapter. | Personal interests | As a mother of three beautiful children, wife of a wonderful cardiologist and a solo medical practitioner in internal medicine, personal interests are hard to fit in. My father purchased a home on the Jersey Shore in 1994, which allows me to enjoy the beach and precious time with my family. I also love to ski. I started skiing in medical school and make a yearly trek out West with my family and friends. As a physician, I am always reminding patients of the benefits of regular exercise, and I, too, try to remain physically active. In 2011, I completed the Lehigh Valley Marathon -- that was a very proud moment!". Dr. Persin is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Her top areas of expertise are Vitamin D Deficiency, Sitosterolemia, High Cholesterol, and Hypertension.

Philosophy of care | Finding out you have cancer is life altering for both you and your loved ones. There is a lot of misinformation out there, especially in today’s social media environment, and that can cause more harm than the initial news of your diagnosis. My goal is to provide information to help you make the right decisions during these trying times. Medicine is indeed a shared decision process with the physician and the patient (along with the family). I hope to provide relevant information to help you navigate your diagnosis and treatment plans and provide optimal support for you and your family. | Why I entered medicine | Medicine was the only career choice for me. I can’t see myself doing anything else or practicing any other field of medicine. Before age 10, I was heavily involved in helping my mother design her clinical practice. In my teenage years, I spent a lot of time in several hospitals in the city volunteering in various departments to get more exposure. In my undergraduate training, I spent time in a cancer lab that focused on drug design. Naturally, the next step was medical school. | Community involvement | Health care is a basic human necessity. I helped to staff a volunteer clinic in medical school with fellow medical students and helped with fundraising for the clinic. We saw patients free of charge and had gift cards for those who needed help with the cost of their medications. We were also able to assist the patients with nutrition, since the clinic was part of a food bank. I hope to start or participate in a similar clinic here someday. | Personal interests | Outside of medicine my biggest interest is in cosmology – the origins of the universe. We live in such a vast universe that spans such a grand period of time; one can only imagine what lies outside our own solar system. I've had the privilege to travel to remote sites around the country and use large dome telescopes to gaze at distant stars. | My family and I love to travel. Each year we try a different area to soak up its beauty and culture, although we do have favorites. Dr. Nadeem is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

Philosophy of care | I believe in a patient-centered approach to medicine. That means treating my patients as individuals and really focusing on their personal preferences, values, cultural traditions and lifestyle choices. It also means giving them the tools they need—as individuals—to take care of themselves. The old way of medicine – when people see a doctor once they’re already sick – is clearly not working. Today’s approach focuses on prevention, and I am passionate about spreading the message. The goal is to get people into the doctor’s office early, before problems begin. Then, we can work as a team to create the healthiest future possible. I strongly believe in the 'patient-centered medical home' concept. | Why I entered medicine | I always envisioned helping other people and making a difference. When I did my clinical rotations, I knew I would end up in internal medicine. I feel this is where I can have the greatest effect on people’s lives. I can spend time getting to know my patients while providing a lifetime of care. | Personal interests | I started running when I was in medical school, and I haven’t stopped since. I like that the only thing you need is a pair of sneakers. You can do it anywhere, anytime. Once my feet hit the ground, I can focus on the motion of running without any other thoughts racing through my head. It’s my stress relief, and it really works for me. I’ve run several 5K and 10K races. I just completed my second half-marathon, and I hope to do a full marathon in the future. Dr. Calhoun is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Her top areas of expertise are Melorheostosis with Osteopoikilosis, Melorheostosis, Osteopenia, and Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism.

Nicole Agostino is a Hematologist Oncology specialist and an Oncologist in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Dr. Agostino is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Her top areas of expertise are Large-Cell Immunoblastic Lymphoma, Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), Multiple Myeloma, Bone Marrow Aspiration, and Endoscopy.

Hikaru Nakajima is a Hematologist Oncology specialist and a Hematologist in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Dr. Nakajima is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Paget Disease of the Breast, Breast Cancer, Inflammatory Breast Cancer, and Angiosarcoma.

Jeffrey Wells is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania. Dr. Wells is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia, Xanthoma, Cirrhosis, and Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism.

Tamam Habib is a Hematologist Oncology specialist and an Oncologist in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Dr. Habib is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). His top areas of expertise are Thrombocytopenia, Paget Disease of the Breast, Intraductal Papilloma, and Schnitzler Syndrome.