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Top 10 Oncologists in Los Angeles for Cancer Treatment

Finding the right oncologist can feel overwhelming, especially after a new cancer diagnosis. Patients and families often search for the best oncologists in Los Angeles, cancer specialists near them, doctors who specialize in a particular type of cancer, or oncology centers offering advanced treatments and clinical trials. With so many hospitals, cancer centers, and specialists across the Los Angeles area, knowing where to start can make the process easier.
Los Angeles is home to several nationally recognized academic medical centers and cancer programs. Patients can find specialists focused on breast cancer, lung cancer, gastrointestinal cancers, melanoma, prostate cancer, blood cancers, sarcomas and many other conditions. Major institutions also provide access to multidisciplinary teams, precision medicine, immunotherapy, targeted treatments, radiation oncology, surgery, supportive care and clinical research.
This guide highlights 10 oncologists in Los Angeles and the surrounding LA area based on specialty expertise, academic and clinical roles, research involvement, and affiliation with established cancer programs. It is designed to help patients understand their options—not to replace a consultation with a qualified medical professional.

 

What Does an Oncologist Do?

An oncologist is a physician who specializes in diagnosing, evaluating and treating cancer. Depending on the patient's diagnosis, oncology care may involve one specialist or a multidisciplinary team.
Medical oncology
Medical oncologists use treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormonal therapy and other systemic treatments. They may coordinate care with surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists and other specialists.
Surgical oncology
Surgical oncologists perform operations to remove tumors or affected tissue when surgery is appropriate.
Radiation oncology
Radiation oncologists specialize in using radiation therapy to treat cancer, either as the primary treatment or alongside surgery and systemic therapies.
Hematology-oncology
Some oncologists specialize in both cancer and blood disorders. These specialists may treat leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma and other hematologic malignancies.
 

Top 10 Oncologists in Los Angeles
 

1. Dr. Dennis J. Slamon – UCLA Health

Overview
Dr. Dennis J. Slamon is one of the prominent names associated with breast cancer research and medical oncology in Los Angeles. He is a professor of medicine, chief of UCLA's Division of Hematology/Oncology and director of Clinical/Translational Research at the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.
His research played a major role in the development of Herceptin (trastuzumab), a targeted treatment for HER2-positive breast cancer. UCLA identifies breast and ovarian cancer among his clinical interests.
Services Offered
* Breast cancer medical oncology
* Breast cancer treatment planning
* Cancer research and clinical trials
* Hematology and medical oncology
* Personalized and targeted cancer treatment
Why Choose Him?
Patients looking for a Los Angeles oncologist with extensive experience in breast cancer research may consider Dr. Slamon's academic and clinical background. His work demonstrates the connection between laboratory research and modern cancer treatment.
Location
Santa Monica Parkside Cancer Care, 2336 Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite 304, Santa Monica, CA 90404. He is also affiliated with Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.
Website
UCLA Health – Dr. Dennis J. Slamon
Contact Details
Patient appointments and UCLA oncology information: 310-206-6931 or 888-662-8252.
Serving Areas
Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Westwood, Beverly Hills, West Los Angeles and surrounding Southern California communities.
 

2. Dr. Antoni Ribas – UCLA Health

Overview
Dr. Antoni Ribas is a physician-scientist specializing in melanoma and cancer immunotherapy. He is a professor at UCLA and director of the Tumor Immunology Program at the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy Center at UCLA.
His work focuses on understanding resistance to immunotherapy and targeted therapies and developing innovative immune-based approaches for cancer treatment.
Services Offered
* Melanoma treatment
* Cutaneous medical oncology
* Immunotherapy
* Targeted therapy
* Cancer clinical trials
* Advanced treatment approaches for advanced melanoma
Why Choose Him?
Patients with melanoma or those exploring advanced immunotherapy options may benefit from the depth of Dr. Ribas's clinical and research experience. His work has contributed to the development of multiple cancer therapies and immune-based treatments.
Location
Westwood Cancer Care, 100 Medical Plaza, Suite 550, Los Angeles, CA 90095.
Website
UCLA Health – Dr. Antoni Ribas
Contact Details
310-794-4955 for patient appointments.
Serving Areas
Westwood, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Brentwood and surrounding Southern California communities.
 

3. Dr. Edward B. Garon – UCLA Health

Overview
Dr. Edward B. Garon is a medical oncologist and professor of medicine at UCLA with a particular focus on thoracic cancers, especially lung cancer. He is also director of UCLA's Thoracic Oncology Program.
His clinical and research work includes targeted therapies and immunotherapies for non-small cell lung cancer and other cancers of the chest.
Services Offered
* Lung cancer treatment
* Thoracic oncology
* Non-small cell lung cancer care
* Targeted therapy
* Immunotherapy
* Cancer clinical trials
* Second opinions and treatment planning
Why Choose Him?
For patients searching for a lung cancer oncologist in Los Angeles, Dr. Garon's specialized thoracic oncology focus makes him an important specialist to consider. His research has included clinical trials evaluating new therapies for lung cancer.
Location
Santa Monica Cancer Care, 2020 Santa Monica Boulevard, Suite 600, Santa Monica, CA 90404.
Website
UCLA Health – Dr. Edward Garon
Contact Details
310-829-5471 for patient referrals.
Serving Areas
Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Brentwood, Venice, Culver City, Westwood and surrounding Los Angeles communities.
 

4. Dr. Richard S. Finn – UCLA Health

Overview
Dr. Richard S. Finn is a professor of medicine at UCLA and specializes in gastrointestinal and breast medical oncology. His clinical interests include liver and hepatobiliary cancers, while his research focuses on developing targeted treatments for solid tumors.
He has been involved in research related to targeted cancer therapies and multidisciplinary treatment programs.
Services Offered
* Liver cancer treatment
* Hepatobiliary cancer care
* Gastrointestinal cancer treatment
* Breast medical oncology
* Targeted therapies
* Clinical trials
* Personalized treatment planning
Why Choose Him?
Patients looking for a liver cancer specialist in Los Angeles or an oncologist experienced with gastrointestinal malignancies may find Dr. Finn's specialization particularly relevant. His combination of patient care and translational research is another important consideration.
Location
Pfleger Liver Institute, 100 Medical Plaza, Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90095, with additional UCLA locations.
Website
UCLA Health – Dr. Richard Finn
Contact Details
310-825-1412. 
Serving Areas
Los Angeles, Westwood, Santa Monica, Encino, Beverly Hills and surrounding Southern California areas.
 

5. Dr. Robert A. Figlin – Cedars-Sinai

Overview
Dr. Robert A. Figlin is a medical oncologist associated with Cedars-Sinai Cancer. He is a professor of medicine and biomedical sciences and holds a leadership role within the cancer program.
His professional profile lists extensive experience in oncology and research, including kidney cancer. He has also received recognition for his contributions to medical oncology and cancer research.
Services Offered
* Medical oncology
* Kidney cancer care
* Cancer treatment planning
* Advanced oncology consultation
* Clinical research
* Multidisciplinary cancer care
Why Choose Him?
Patients seeking an experienced Los Angeles medical oncologist within a major academic cancer program may consider Dr. Figlin's extensive oncology background and research experience.
Location
Samuel Oschin Cancer Center, 127 S San Vicente Boulevard, Pavilion, 7th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90048.
Website
Cedars-Sinai – Dr. Robert Figlin
Contact Details
310-423-1331. 
Serving Areas
Beverly Grove, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Mid-City Los Angeles, West Los Angeles and surrounding areas.
 

6. Dr. Ani S. Balmanoukian – Cedars-Sinai

Overview
Dr. Ani S. Balmanoukian is a medical oncologist and hematologist at Cedars-Sinai. Her listed areas of experience include gastrointestinal cancer and lung cancer, making her relevant for patients seeking specialized medical oncology care for these conditions.
Services Offered
* Medical oncology
* Hematology
* Gastrointestinal cancer care
* Lung cancer care
* Cancer treatment consultation
* Treatment planning
Why Choose Her?
Cancer treatment often requires specialists who understand both the disease and the available treatment approaches. Dr. Balmanoukian's experience with gastrointestinal and lung cancers may make her a suitable specialist for patients with these diagnoses.
Location
Cedars-Sinai, 8700 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048.
Website
Cedars-Sinai – Dr. Ani Balmanoukian
Contact Details
Cedars-Sinai patient services: 1-800-CEDARS-1.
Serving Areas
Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Culver City, Santa Monica and nearby communities.
 

7. Dr. Edwin M. Posadas – Cedars-Sinai

Overview
Dr. Edwin M. Posadas is a medical oncologist at Cedars-Sinai's Samuel Oschin Cancer Center. His profile identifies him as having extensive experience in oncology and lists him as a professor and cancer-program leader.
Services Offered
* Medical oncology
* Cancer treatment
* Oncology consultations
* Multidisciplinary cancer care
* Research-informed treatment planning
* Follow-up and cancer management
Why Choose Him?
Patients seeking care through a major Los Angeles cancer center may value access to specialists, diagnostic services and multidisciplinary expertise in one healthcare system.
Location
Samuel Oschin Cancer Center, 127 S San Vicente Boulevard, Pavilion, 7th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90048.
Website
Cedars-Sinai – Dr. Edwin Posadas
Contact Details
310-423-7600 for scheduling.
Serving Areas
Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, West Los Angeles and surrounding Southern California communities.
 

8. Dr. Anthony B. El-Khoueiry – Keck Medicine of USC

Overview
Dr. Anthony B. El-Khoueiry is an oncologist at Keck Medicine of USC and an associate professor of clinical medicine. His primary research interests include gastrointestinal malignancies, novel cancer drugs and clinical trials.
He also serves in leadership within USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center's clinical investigations program.
Services Offered
* Gastrointestinal cancer treatment
* Medical oncology
* Clinical trials
* Phase I and Phase II cancer research
* Novel drug development
* Treatment for solid tumors
Why Choose Him?
Patients with gastrointestinal cancers who are interested in research-driven treatment and clinical trials may consider Dr. El-Khoueiry's specialization and research background.
Location
Keck Hospital of USC, 1500 San Pablo Street, Los Angeles, CA 90033; USC Norris Cancer Hospital is at 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90033.
Website
Keck Medicine of USC – Dr. Anthony El-Khoueiry
Contact Details
Keck Medicine of USC: 800-872-2273.
Serving Areas
Downtown Los Angeles, East Los Angeles, Boyle Heights, Koreatown, South Los Angeles and surrounding communities.
 

9. Dr. Mark Agulnik – Keck Medicine of USC

Overview
Dr. Mark Agulnik is a board-certified oncologist at Keck Medicine of USC who specializes in sarcomas, including bone and soft-tissue cancers and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST).
Services Offered
* Sarcoma treatment
* Bone cancer care
* Soft-tissue cancer care
* GIST treatment
* Medical oncology
* Multidisciplinary cancer management
Why Choose Him?
Sarcomas are relatively uncommon and can require specialized expertise. Patients diagnosed with bone or soft-tissue cancers may benefit from consulting an oncologist whose clinical focus specifically includes sarcoma.
Location
Keck Hospital of USC, 1500 San Pablo Street, Los Angeles, CA 90033, and USC Norris Cancer Hospital, 1441 Eastlake Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90033.
Website
Keck Medicine of USC – Dr. Mark Agulnik
Contact Details
Keck Medicine of USC: 800-872-2273.
Serving Areas
Downtown Los Angeles, East Los Angeles, Koreatown, Boyle Heights and surrounding Southern California communities.
 

10. Dr. Kalust Ucar – City of Hope

Overview
Dr. Kalust Ucar is a medical oncologist and hematologist associated with City of Hope. His specialties include hematologic oncology and medical oncology, and his profile notes that he works with patients across a broad range of cancers.
Services Offered
* Medical oncology
* Hematologic oncology
* Cancer treatment
* Hematology care
* Treatment planning
* Access to innovative cancer therapies
Why Choose Him?
Patients looking for a cancer specialist near Los Angeles with expertise spanning medical and hematologic oncology may consider Dr. Ucar. City of Hope also provides access to a broad cancer-care infrastructure and research environment.
Location
City of Hope Glendale, 222 West Eulalia Street, Suite 100-B, Glendale, CA 91204.
Website
City of Hope – Dr. Kalust Ucar
Contact Details
City of Hope: 888-552-6760. 
Serving Areas
Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, Northeast Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley and surrounding communities.
 

How to Choose the Right Oncologist in Los Angeles
Choosing an oncologist is about more than finding a doctor with an impressive résumé. The right specialist should match the patient's specific cancer, treatment requirements, communication preferences, location and insurance.
1. Consider the Type of Cancer
Start by identifying the specialist most experienced in treating the specific cancer.
For example:
* Breast cancer may require a breast medical oncologist.
* Lung cancer may be best managed by a thoracic oncology team.
* Melanoma may benefit from a specialist in skin cancer and immunotherapy.
* Liver or pancreatic cancer may require gastrointestinal or hepatobiliary expertise.
* Sarcoma often requires a specialist familiar with rare bone and soft-tissue cancers.
* Leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma are generally treated by hematology-oncology specialists.
2. Look at Experience With Your Diagnosis
Cancer is not one disease. Even two people with the same general cancer type may have different stages, molecular characteristics and treatment requirements.
Ask how frequently the oncologist treats your particular diagnosis and whether the practice has a multidisciplinary team.
3. Ask About Treatment Options
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment could include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, hormonal therapy, cellular therapy or combinations of these approaches.
Ask your oncologist to explain which treatments are appropriate and why.
4. Consider Clinical Trials
Clinical trials can provide access to investigational treatments that are not yet widely available. Major Los Angeles cancer centers such as UCLA, Cedars-Sinai, USC and City of Hope have substantial research programs.
UCLA, for example, offers clinical trials across numerous cancer types and provides access to specialists involved in cancer research.
5. Check Insurance and Costs
Before scheduling an appointment, contact your insurance provider and the oncology practice. Ask about:
* Specialist copayments
* Deductibles
* Hospital coverage
* Chemotherapy and infusion coverage
* Radiation coverage
* Imaging and laboratory costs
* Clinical trial coverage
* Out-of-network expenses
Insurance participation can change, so verify coverage directly.
6. Think About Location and Convenience
Cancer treatment can involve many appointments. A conveniently located oncology center may reduce travel stress.
Patients in Los Angeles can consider cancer centers in Westwood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Downtown Los Angeles, West Los Angeles, Glendale and surrounding areas.
7. Evaluate Communication
A good oncology consultation should give you an opportunity to ask questions. You should understand your diagnosis, treatment choices, expected benefits, potential risks and next steps.
It is reasonable to seek a second opinion if you want additional perspective before beginning treatment.
 

Benefits of Choosing a Specialized Cancer Center in Los Angeles
Multidisciplinary Care
Large cancer centers can bring together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, genetic counselors, nurses and supportive-care professionals.
UCLA describes its cancer program as a multidisciplinary system involving specialists across numerous medical and scientific disciplines.
Access to Advanced Treatments
Depending on the diagnosis, patients may have access to precision medicine, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, cellular therapies and other advanced approaches.
Clinical Research
Academic cancer centers connect patient care with ongoing research. This can be especially important for patients with uncommon, advanced or treatment-resistant cancers.
Supportive Cancer Care
Cancer treatment can affect nutrition, emotional health, physical activity, sleep and overall quality of life. Comprehensive cancer programs may provide supportive services alongside active treatment.
UCLA, for example, offers integrative oncology, nutritional guidance, psychological support and survivorship services.
Second Opinions
A second opinion can help patients better understand their diagnosis and treatment choices. UCLA specifically offers second-opinion services as part of its cancer program.
 

Questions to Ask an Oncologist During Your First Visit
Going into an oncology appointment with a written list of questions can make the consultation more productive.
* What type and stage of cancer do I have?
* What additional tests are necessary?
* What treatment options are available?
* What do you recommend and why?
* Are there targeted therapies or immunotherapy options?
* Should I consider genetic or molecular testing?
* Are clinical trials appropriate for my situation?
* What are the potential side effects?
* How long might treatment take?
* Should I consider getting a second opinion?
It can also be useful to bring previous pathology reports, imaging results, medication lists and other relevant medical records.
 

Frequently Asked Questions About Oncologists in Los Angeles
1. How do I find the best oncologist in Los Angeles?
There is no single best oncologist for every patient. The right choice depends on the cancer type, stage, treatment needs, specialist experience, insurance, location and personal preferences. Start by looking for an oncologist who regularly treats your specific cancer.
2. What is the difference between an oncologist and a medical oncologist?
An oncologist is a doctor specializing in cancer. A medical oncologist specifically focuses on systemic cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and hormonal therapy.
3. Should I get a second opinion before cancer treatment?
A second opinion can be useful, particularly when the diagnosis is complex, the cancer is uncommon, several treatment options are available, or you simply want additional confidence in the proposed treatment plan.
4. Which Los Angeles oncologists specialize in lung cancer?
Dr. Edward B. Garon at UCLA is a thoracic medical oncologist whose clinical and research interests include lung cancer and targeted and immune-based treatments. Dr. Ani S. Balmanoukian at Cedars-Sinai also lists lung cancer among her areas of experience.
5. Who specializes in melanoma in Los Angeles?
Dr. Antoni Ribas at UCLA specializes in cutaneous medical oncology and melanoma, with significant research focused on cancer immunotherapy and targeted therapies.
6. Which Los Angeles oncologists specialize in breast cancer?
Dr. Dennis J. Slamon is particularly recognized for his breast cancer research and medical oncology work at UCLA. Dr. Richard Finn also has breast medical oncology among his specialties.
7. Are clinical trials available in Los Angeles?
Yes. Major Los Angeles cancer centers conduct clinical trials covering numerous cancer types and treatment approaches. Eligibility depends on factors such as cancer type, stage, previous treatments and specific trial requirements.
8. How much does an oncology consultation cost in Los Angeles?
Costs vary significantly depending on the specialist, insurance plan, facility, tests and treatment. Patients should contact the provider and insurance company before an appointment to understand expected out-of-pocket costs.
 

Conclusion
Choosing an oncologist is one of the most important decisions a cancer patient and family may face. Los Angeles offers a wide range of highly specialized cancer physicians and major cancer programs, giving patients access to expertise across breast cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, gastrointestinal cancers, sarcoma, blood cancers and other conditions.
The doctors featured in this guide—including specialists affiliated with UCLA Health, Cedars-Sinai, Keck Medicine of USC and City of Hope—represent different areas of oncology expertise. The most appropriate choice depends on your individual diagnosis rather than a simple ranking.
When comparing oncologists in Los Angeles, focus on experience with your specific cancer, treatment options, multidisciplinary support, access to clinical trials, insurance coverage, location and communication style. Most importantly, take time to understand your diagnosis and treatment choices.
Cancer treatment is highly individualized. This article is intended for general informational purposes and should not be considered medical advice. Always discuss your diagnosis and treatment options with a qualified oncology professional.

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