Zachary Blume, PA-C
Zachary Blume, PA-C
- Physician Assistant, Fred Hutch
- Teaching Associate, Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine
Hematology-Oncology
Hematology
“We have an engaged, collaborative team that is willing and excited to help, along with coordinated support across disciplines and departments.”
— Zach
What brought you to oncology?
I have an undergraduate degree in microbiology and spent time in an immunology lab, and when I was in graduate school, I elected hematology-oncology for one of my rotations. I was already fascinated by the science, and I wanted to push myself, since I knew there would be an emotional component of interacting with patients. I was fortunate to shadow someone who was brilliant at her job — tactful, kind and empathetic — and found out I really love it. We see a lot of the best parts of our adaptability and resilience as humans, and a lot of hope, too.
What do you hope it's like for a patient to work with you?
I want to listen, empathize and be in their corner as both an advocate and as someone patients can trust. I aim to give the advice I would give to my own family members and to be upfront and honest with them. A mentor of mine would say that there are two people in the room who have a wealth of knowledge. I have expertise in medical conditions, treatments and helping patients make decisions. And the patient is the expert in their day-to-day experience and how they feel. Their input is just as important, if not more so.
Provider Background
Area of Clinical Practice
Hematology
I am a certified physician assistant who sees patients at the South Lake Union Clinic.
I want patients to feel comfortable and confident coming to see me. This can be a challenge in oncology, because patients are dealing with complicated diagnoses and don’t always feel their best, but I want to help dispel any anxieties they have about treatment and make sure they feel at ease.
Diseases Treated
Languages
English
Education, Experience and Certifications
Undergraduate Degree
University of Idaho
Medical Degree
Idaho State University
Clinical Trials
We make promising new treatments available to you through studies called clinical trials led by Fred Hutch physicians. Many of these trials at Fred Hutch have led to FDA-approved treatments and have improved standards of care globally. Together, you and your physician can decide if a study is right for you.
Your Care Team
At Fred Hutch, you receive care from a team of providers with extensive experience in your disease. Your team includes physicians, a patient care coordinator, a registered nurse, an advanced practice provider and others, based on your needs. You also have access to experts like registered dietitians, social workers, acupuncturists, psychiatrists and more who specialize in supporting people with cancer or blood disorders.
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.
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