Poorni M. Manohar, MD

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manohar
Poorni M. Manohar, MD

Poorni M. Manohar, MD

  • Physician, Fred Hutch
  • Acting Instructor, Internal Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine
  • Physician, UW Medicine
  • Acting Instructor, Internal Medicine, Fred Hutch

Medical Oncology

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“What I enjoy most about working with patients who have breast cancer is the opportunity to be a source of comfort and support throughout their entire journey, whether we are pursuing a cure or striving for the best quality of life possible despite cancer.”

— Dr. Manohar

Why do you practice oncology?

My father was a primary care doctor, and his clinic was attached to our house in India, where I grew up. He would be gone from morning till night, sometimes seeing up to 100 patients a day. His commitment to his patients was part of what drew me to the field of medicine and fueled my own passion for helping people. Practicing oncology allows me to develop meaningful relationships with patients over time while also improving the standard of care through research. What I enjoy most about working with patients who have breast cancer is the opportunity to be a source of comfort and support throughout their entire journey, whether we are pursuing a cure or striving for the best quality of life possible despite cancer.

Tell us about an interaction with a patient that had a significant impact on you.

One of my fondest memories is of a patient I first met when she was in her late 20s. A mother with a young child, she had metastatic breast cancer that was resistant to many treatments. Despite everything she was facing, she always wore a smile to every visit. Her grace in bearing each setback and complication floored me. Her bravery and resilience continue to inspire me. She was a bright light in her family’s life as well as my own. To this day, especially on the tough days, I remember her courage (and her smile!), and it rallies me to keep going, to keep pushing, to keep fighting for my patients.

Provider Background

Specialty: Medical Oncology

Area of clinical practice

Breast cancers

Breast Cancer

I am a board-certified medical oncologist who specializes in the treatment of breast cancer. My approach to care is holistic, integrating both your physical and emotional well-being. I cherish the opportunity to listen to your concerns, share in decision-making and develop a treatment plan that aligns with your personal goals and wishes.

In addition to working closely with patients and families, I am privileged to partner with the Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research (HICOR). Based at Fred Hutch, this research institute uses cancer-related data to improve the delivery of care. I have been awarded multiple grants to assess the management of patients with metastatic breast cancer across Washington state. My goal is to better understand disparities in access to care. I hope to build a career in academia that focuses on developing a model of accessible, affordable and sustainable care for all patients.

Diseases Treated

Breast Cancer

Languages

English

Education, Experience and Certifications

Undergraduate Degree
Case Western Reserve University

Medical Degree
Wright State University School of Medicine

Residency
University of Michigan, Internal Medicine

Fellowship
University of Washington, Oncology

Board Certification
Internal Medicine, 2016, American Board of Internal Medicine

Awards

Conquer Cancer Foundation Young Investigator Award
Dr. Manohar received this award in 2020 to support her research in metastatic breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Sponsored by the Conquer Cancer Foundation of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, it offers funding to promising young cancer researchers.

Roger E. Moe Fellowship in Multi-Disciplinary Breast Cancer Care
Dr. Manohar received this award in 2020 to spearhead a clinical trial examining a novel imaging approach for patients with early-stage lobular breast cancer.

Clinical Trials

We make promising new treatments available to you through studies called clinical trials led by Fred Hutch doctors. Many of these trials at Fred Hutch have led to FDA-approved treatments and have improved standards of care globally. Together, you and your doctor can decide if a study is right for you.

Find a Clinical Trial Led by Dr. Manohar

Publications

Many of our Fred Hutch doctors conduct ongoing research to improve standards of patient care. Their work is evaluated by other doctors and selected for publication to the United States National Library of Medicine, the largest medical library in the world. See scientific papers this Fred Hutch provider has written.

View Dr. Manohar's Publications

Your Care Team

At Fred Hutch, you receive care from a team of providers with extensive experience in your disease. Your team includes doctors, a patient care coordinator, a registered nurse, an advanced practice provider and others, based on your needs. You also have access to experts like nutritionists, social workers, acupuncturists, psychiatrists and more who specialize in supporting people with cancer or blood disorders.

Meet Other Providers

Insurance

Fred Hutch accepts most national private health insurance plans as well as Medicare. We also accept Medicaid for people from Washington, Alaska, Montana and Idaho. We are working to ensure that everyone, no matter what their financial situation, has access to the care they need.

More About Insurance

For the Media

The Media Relations team at Fred Hutch is available to assist members of the news media who would like to arrange interviews with providers.

Email media@fredhutch.org or call 206.667.2210