Sarah S. Lee, MD
Located at
Before going to medical school, I got a job in the clinical research department of a cancer center. I worked with an investigator who was testing new drug therapies for multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that affects cells in the immune system. It was the first time I had conducted research in a clinical setting, where I got to interact with patients and witness up close how scientific advances can directly impact people. The experience lit a fire that inspired me to continue working with this population of patients and to keep looking for opportunities to improve treatment options. It’s really exciting to see how quickly this area of medicine continues to evolve and to see patients with multiple myeloma and similar disorders living longer and enjoying a better quality of life.
By the time some patients with plasma cell disorders see me, they have been feeling ill for a long period of time without understanding why or receiving a diagnosis, which can be a frustrating experience. From the moment we first meet, I focus on laying the groundwork for a trusting, positive relationship where you feel comfortable asking questions and talking openly about your concerns. I’m interested in learning about what your medical journey has been like so far and what’s important to you as an individual. I’m grateful for the long-term relationships I develop with patients and families; together we work toward common goals, manage unforeseen setbacks and celebrate milestones.
Provider background
Specialty: Medical Oncology
Hematologic malignancies
I am a hematologist-oncologist who specializes in the care of patients with plasma cell disorders. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that live in the bone marrow and help the body fight infection. Sometimes these cells don’t work as they should, developing into cancers such as multiple myeloma.
Before joining Fred Hutch, I completed a fellowship in hematology-oncology at the Cleveland Clinic. My background also includes experience in researching novel therapies for multiple myeloma, amyloidosis and other plasma cell disorders. What drew me to Fred Hutch was the opportunity to participate in clinical research and to embrace a collaborative approach to medicine. It’s not any single physician taking care of you; there’s a whole team of experts working together to help you navigate the ups and downs of your diagnosis.
Diseases treated
Research
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.
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.
Press
Our providers are often asked to give their medical expertise for press and news publications. Read articles by or about this Fred Hutch provider.
Your care team
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.
