Viswam S. Nair, MD, MS
Located at
As a medical student, I was initially drawn toward working in the fast-paced environment of the intensive care unit, because it requires one to think on their feet and make decisions quickly. As my career has progressed, I have been drawn to the pulmonary side of medicine — helping patients manage disorders associated with the lungs. A big part of what drew me to SCCA was the opportunity to align my clinical focus with my primary research interest, which is improving the detection and treatment of lung cancer. I enjoy helping people with all cancer types manage complex respiratory issues while also striving to move the needle forward in our field.
One of my parents was diagnosed with cancer, and that experience has attuned me to many of the issues and tough decisions that patients in oncology face. I believe in empowering patients by sharing the best available evidence so that they can make informed decisions about their care.
Provider background
Specialties and clinical expertise: Pulmonary Medicine
I am a pulmonary critical care specialist who treats patients with respiratory problems from cancer or cancer treatment. My expertise also includes lung cancer screening and diagnosis as well as the management of lung nodules, small growths in the lungs that can be benign or malignant. Often, I use advanced procedural skills to diagnose abnormalities in the lung by bronchoscopy, a technique that provides a view of the lung’s airways. I provide outpatient care at SCCA and inpatient care at UW Medical Center - Montlake.
In addition to working with patients, I lead a research program at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center that is focused on developing new ways to diagnose and treat lung cancer. One area of interest is improving the utility of bronchoscopy in order to better guide the care of patients with lung cancer.
Diseases treated
Research
Clinical trials
We make promising new treatments available to you through studies called clinical trials led by SCCA doctors. Many of these trials at SCCA 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.
Your care team
Insurance
SCCA 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.
