Our team of renowned, board certified cancer physicians brings over 100 combined years of experience to your cancer journey.
We are nationally recognized for our oncology expertise, knowledge, and compassion. These compassionate cancer physicians are delivering world-class cancer care in Mid-Michigan.
Appointments and Referrals
UM Health-Sparrow offers a team approach when determining an individualized cancer plan. Patients may be seen through one of our multidisciplinary clinics including breast, colorectal, chest, genitourinary (GU), head and neck, and upper gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. For an appointment, referral, or more information, please call 517-364-9402.
Our Providers
Medical Oncology
Our medical oncologists are experts in diagnosing and treating cancer with knowledge of the latest chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy.
Physicians
Hussein M. Ali-Ahmad, M.D.
Dr. Ali-Ahmad, is board certified by the American Board of Oncology, American Board of Hematology, and the American Board of International Medicine. Before joining UM Health-Sparrow’s oncology team, Dr. Ali-Ahmad practiced at Roswell Park Center Institute Oncology P.C.
Muhammad Hamdan, M.D.
Dr. Hamdan is board certified in both hematology and oncology. He received his medical degree from the School of Medicine Damascus University in Syria. Before joining UM Health-Sparrow’s oncology team, Dr. Hamdan was the Associate Medical Director of the Great Lakes Cancer Institute from 1999 to 2006.
Gordan Srkalovic, M.D., PH.D.
Dr. Srkalovic is the Medical Director of Herbert-Herman Cancer Center, and Chairman of UM Health-Sparrow Health System’s Cancer Committee. He also serves as the Director of the Clinical Trials Office and a Physician at Herbert-Herman Cancer Center, practicing hematology and oncology. Dr. Srkalovic was born in Sarajevo, Bosnia and received his medical degree and Master of Science degree from the University of Sarajevo Medical School, as well as his Ph.D from the University of Tuzla Medical School.
Brittani Thomas, D.O.
Dr. Thomas completed her Hematology/Oncology Fellowship and Internal Medicine Residency at Genesys Regional Medical Center, where she held the title of Chief Fellow and Chief Resident. She graduated from the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Thomas provides Hematology/Medical Oncology Services at the Herbert-Herman Cancer Center in Lansing and Carson in Carson City.
Daniela Weiss, D.O.
Dr. Weiss attended University of Michigan for her bachelor’s degree and Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine for her medical training. Dr. Weiss provides Hematology/Medical Oncology Services at the Herbert-Herman Cancer Center in Lansing and UM Health-Sparrow Charlotte Oncology in Charlotte, MI.
View Dr. Weiss' profile
Radiation Oncology
Our expert radiation oncologists work closely with our medical oncologists, surgeons, and other physician specialists to determine the most appropriate course of cancer radiation treatment. They use leading edge technology that can lead to earlier detection, and shorter and more accurate treatments for patients.
Daniel Chapman, M.D., MPH
Dr. Chapman joined the Herbert-Herman Cancer Center team in 2024. Dr. Coutu completed his undergraduate degree at Michigan State University, receiving a B.S. in Physiology in 2014. He then went on to medical school at Central Michigan University while simultaneously completing a Master in Public Health degree at Michigan State University. Dr. Chapman's professional interests include MRI-guided radiation therapy, stereotactic body radiation therapy, and the continued effort to further improve patient experience while undergoing cancer treatment.
Brendan Coutu, M.D., M.B.A.
Dr. Coutu joined the Herbert-Herman Cancer Center team in July 2022. Dr. Coutu completed his medical school at the University of Minnesota and his intern year in internal medicine at the Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Coutu’s Radiation Oncology residency was at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, where he was selected as the Chief Resident during his final year of residency. Dr. Coutu has a special interest in stereotactic body radiotherapy using the MRIDIAN ViewRay linear accelerator, for which he was excited to join the team at UM Health-Sparrow.
James Herman, M.D.
Dr. Herman has been a member of UM Health-Sparrow’s oncology team since 1983. He is board certified in internal medicine, medical oncology, and radiation oncology. He received his medical degree from the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Canada. Treating all cancer types, Dr. Herman has been instrumental in developing and implementing UM Health-Sparrow’s multidisciplinary oncology clinics. His greatest ability is his strong communication with patients and their families.
Oncology Pharmacy
Clinical pharmacists in oncology pharmacy provide pharmaceutical care to patients with cancer. They offer expertise and guidance on medication-related issues and ensure the safe and effective use of medications in cancer treatment.
Jennifer VanSickler, PharmD
Dr. VanSickler is an ambulatory clinical oncology pharmacist at Herbert-Herman Cancer Center. Her clinical focus is oral anticancer agent management, including patient education and monitoring of adherence and toxicities. Dr. VanSickler obtained her undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy. She completed her PGY1 Pharmacy Residency at E.W. Sparrow Hospital.
Surgical Oncology
Our surgical oncologists are the only fellowship trained team in Mid-Michigan. They provide surgical expertise and skill at removing tumors and performing biopsies.
Shahrzad (Shari) R. Brown, M.D.
Dr. Brown is a Breast Surgical Oncologist at UM Health-Sparrow Hospital. Dr. Brown was born and raised in California and received a B.S. in Molecular and Environmental Biology from the University of California Berkeley and completed General Surgery residency at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland in Pontiac, MI. She is board certified by the American Board of Surgery.
Thais Fortes, M.D.
Dr. Fortes is a Gynecologic Surgeon who specializes in management of breast diseases. She earned her medical degree from Universidade Federal do Piaui, Brazil. Dr. Fortes underwent Obstetrics and Gynecology residency and Breast Surgery fellowship in her home country prior to moving to the U.S.
Nurse Navigators
UM Health-Sparrow cancer patients have access to nurse navigators that help patients through their cancer journey. The certified nurse navigators provide education and support for cancer patients and their families. Their service ensures that questions are answered and helps to relieve confusion, fears, and anxiety. The navigator also helps facilitate referrals to community resources and providers.
Learn more about our navigators and multidisciplinary clinics.