Deanna M. Ballard, APRN

Deanna Ballard is a board-certified adult geriatric nurse practitioner who specializes in medical oncology/hematology at Danbury Hospital’s Praxair Cancer Center. She believes that excellent care starts by creating strong relationships with both her patients and families and understanding their personalized needs and wishes. She is well-versed in managing all aspects of cancer care, including chemotherapy side effects, expectations of treatment and cancer follow up care with a strong focus on education, health promotion and patient advocacy. Deanna prides herself on the friendly, compassionate and individualized care she provides for all of her patients. Additionally, she loves spending quality time with her family, hiking, boating, cooking and exploring new places.

Why should someone choose you to care for their health?
I make it a point to get to know my patients, as well as their families, in order to build strong relationships with them. I believe this makes it easier to understand their personal needs.

What is the most important thing your patients should expect from their professional relationship with you? What do you expect from them?
My patients can always expect a trusting and compassionate relationship, one which fosters respect and honesty at all times.

How do you spend your personal time when you're not caring for patients?
I love to spend time with my family, including my two little boys. Together, we spend most of our time outdoors, hiking, boating and discovering new and exciting places.

Why did you choose your specialty and what is its greatest reward?
I chose oncology because it is an area of medicine that really allows me to get to know my patients. It awards me the opportunity to personalize their care and create meaningful relationships.