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Deborah M. Stephens, DO

  • Clinical Information
  • Academic Information
  • Clinical Trials
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No Rating Available?
In order to provide our patients and visitors with the most accurate and useful information, we only post physician satisfaction data when a physician has received a minimum of 30 returned surveys. For this provider, we have not yet received the minimum.
139 4.9 out of 5 Patient Rating

Languages Spoken: English, Spanish

Languages Spoken: English, Spanish


Deborah Stephens, DO joined the Division of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies as an Assistant Professor in 2014. She completed her internal medicine residency at Cleveland Clinic and fellowship training at Ohio State University. Dr. Stephens’s clinic focuses on patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and lymphoma. Her primary research interests include developing new targeted therapies for patients with CLL and lymphoma, studying resistance to current therapies, and developing supportive therapies for complications of CLL.. She is the Physician Leader of the Hematology Clinical Trials Division at Huntsman Cancer Institute and is the principal investigator on multiple clinical trials there. Her research has been widely published in influential journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine, Journal of Clinical Oncology, and Blood. She is a member of the editorial board for the Journal of Clinical Oncology. On a national level, she is an expert panelist for the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) CLL Guidelines Panel, which establishes and published the most widely referenced guidelines for the evaluation and treatment of patients with CLL. Dr. Stephens is the Physician Leader of the SWOG CLL Working Group Committee, which is a group of CLL experts from academic centers around the country who plan and implement national clinical trials to improve the standard-of-care for CLL patients across the country. Dr. Stephens is also a member of the medical board for the CLL Society, which is the largest patient-led CLL group in the country. The sum of Dr. Stephens's experiences demonstrate her deep commitment to improve the care of patients with CLL and lymphoma.

Specialties

  • Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
  • Hematology/BMT

Board Certification and Academic Information

Academic Departments Internal Medicine - Assistant Professor
Academic Divisions Hematology/BMT
Board Certification American Board of Internal Medicine (Sub: Hematology)
American Board of Internal Medicine (Sub: Medical Oncology)

Patient Rating

The Patient Rating score is an average of all responses to care provider related questions on our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survey.

Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.

Learn About Our Survey

Likelihood of recommending care provider

4.9/ 5

Care provider's explanation of condition/problem

4.9/ 5

Care provider's effort to include me in decisions

4.9/ 5

Wait time at clinic

4.1/ 5

Care provider's concern for questions & worries

4.9/ 5

Patient Comments

Patient comments are gathered from our Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survery and displayed in their entirety. Patients are de-identified for confidentiality and patient privacy.

UofU Patient December 01, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Stephens is amazing! She is very caring and knowledgeable. In addition, she takes the time to answer all my questions and includes me in decisions. I have complete confidence in her care and I highly recommend her to others.

UofU Patient November 29, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Stephen's is outstanding!

UofU Patient November 17, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

they were very rhoroufh

UofU Patient October 11, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

If all doctors were as good as Doctor Stephens all patients would have great care.

UofU Patient October 09, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

only the very best

UofU Patient October 04, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens is great. She works with me, not on me.

UofU Patient August 30, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Doctor Stephens is agreat care provider. Thanks

UofU Patient August 16, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Deborah Stephens is the best care provider I've ever been to . All her patients are blessed by being in her care.

UofU Patient August 10, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Very caring and informative

UofU Patient August 10, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Renee Vadenpour (sp), DNP and Deborah Stephens, DO, Hematology and Oncology, are the consummate professionals. Each is caring, supportive and highly regarded by this patient.

UofU Patient July 23, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

good

UofU Patient June 28, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

I love this team of doctors. It was good to see Dr Stephens and Renee. I feel they really care.

UofU Patient June 28, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

This was first visit. Of course I was fearful and probably asked a lot of not especially well-informed questions. I was dealt with most professionally, courteously and patiently.

UofU Patient June 21, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens was awesome. she listened and she explained things in terms i could understand

UofU Patient June 21, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

they were able to give all the options available.

UofU Patient June 17, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens was very thorough in answering questions about my condition.

UofU Patient June 05, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Natalie and Dr. Stephens are wonderful

UofU Patient May 22, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens and nurse Renee are just the best!!!!!!

UofU Patient April 12, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens is always caring and listening

UofU Patient March 22, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

She truly is the best doctor I have had the pleasure to meet in my long medical history. And I have been fortunate to know many great people along the way.She has a sincere reality about her manner . The way she administers seems like she is a friend, a classmate, coworker or cousin, someone close enough so you feel comfortable around her. She remembers details about your life. She doesnt speak down or brush of questions/concerns. she is pleasant which is always a bonus for patients who are struggling with the disease, who might be fearful, panicked, or hopeless. There are also times when she might be having a day as well, stress or whatever. She doesnt hide it, she is honest. I like that. Yet she also doesnt let it get in the way of her care of the patient, so even still she shines through.

UofU Patient January 12, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens is a wonderful doctor, friendly, caring, and compassionate.

UofU Patient January 11, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

I appreciate everyone taking the time for questions and answers and concerns. I didn't feel rushed.

UofU Patient January 10, 2020
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

She is always explaining in detail, listening to and answering concerns.

UofU Patient December 20, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Both Stephens and Lowrance are fabulous to work with.

UofU Patient December 11, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

good

UofU Patient December 04, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Stephens is very attentive and listens to my concerns. I hope I never have to refer or recommend anyone else but will do so without hesitation if it is necessary.

UofU Patient November 15, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

I always have excellent care. I

UofU Patient November 07, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens is an amazing physician. She is extremely knowledgeable regarding CLL, very professional and yet very patient as she listened to my and my wife's concerns regarding my illness. She patiently explained lab results and tests very clearly and answered all our questions. In addition, she is a very kind and caring doctor. We are very blessed to have her as our physician!

UofU Patient October 25, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

I'm so grateful for Doctor Stephens

UofU Patient October 11, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

The staff and doctors make a great effort to consider and respond to my concerns in a way that indicates that they have a genuine concern for my well being.

UofU Patient September 25, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Doctor Stephens and her PA are very very good.

UofU Patient September 20, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Very good

UofU Patient August 23, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens and her staff have always been wonderful to us. I feel like the care she has given me was the best available.

UofU Patient August 16, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Stephens is my heroine. She is supportive and very knowledgeable.

UofU Patient July 26, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

She is my angel.

UofU Patient June 19, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

It was very hard when our previous oncologist moved but we feel extremely blessed to be referred to Dr Stephens. Her primary focus is CLL and researching therapies to treat it. Since it was my first visit, she spent a lot of time asking questions about my health and did a great job of explaining a plan of action. In addition, she spent the time to research and refer me to another team of physicians to get a 2nd opinion on my 2nd health issue. She is very kind, patient and answered all our questions.

UofU Patient June 19, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

The team of Dr. Stephens and the NP Natalie Turner are the best care providers I've ever experienced. They are very informative and take time to answer my questions.

UofU Patient June 07, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

I love Dr. Stephens and her NP, Natalie. They are kind and compassionate and take their time with me.

UofU Patient June 06, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

great

UofU Patient May 27, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

This was my second appointment with Dr. Debbie Stephens. Like the first time, she was professional, knowledgeable about my condition and her advise gave me a great deal of comfort

UofU Patient May 25, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens was excellent.

UofU Patient May 18, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens is the best ever!!!!

UofU Patient May 07, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

I was very nervous while sitting in the exam room. Dr. Stevens took time and explained things in language I could understand.

UofU Patient May 04, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens was behind schedule and s bit rushed compared to previous visits

UofU Patient May 03, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

We love Renee and this is our firsts time meeting Dr Stevens. We are pleased and feel we can continue with good care.

UofU Patient April 05, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

4 out of 5 stars

They listened to and were able to arrange for a request to have my blood work done locally and have the info sent to them. I live a considerable distance away and that is very appreciated.

UofU Patient April 01, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

provider is excellent in every way possible

UofU Patient February 22, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

very good

UofU Patient February 12, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Doctor Stephens is a wonderful, brilliant physician and my life is blessed by her care.

UofU Patient January 26, 2019
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

excellent

UofU Patient December 21, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Sthens is the best medical provider I have had

UofU Patient December 05, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

care by both Dr Stephens an NP's is outstanding-they are very helpful answering questions and providing info. The CLL forum they held to educate patients was a great addition to their care

UofU Patient December 01, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

I enjoy working with Dr. Stephens. She explains everything in a manner that is very understandable. Even though I travel 300 miles for each visit -- it is worth every mile.

UofU Patient November 20, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

I was impressed with the knowledge and caring of the care provider. I came with a full sheet of questions and every one was addressed to my complete understanding.

UofU Patient November 09, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

2 out of 5 stars

There seemed to be a lack of genuine concern for my concerns

UofU Patient November 02, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Stevens is one amazing doctor. Dr. Stevens cares about you and is calm, informative, simple in her explanation.

UofU Patient October 19, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

excellent. outstanding

UofU Patient October 05, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr Stephens is my doctor and she is amazing. Very knowledgeable, caring and friendly. Recommend her all the time for friends dealing with lymphoma.

UofU Patient August 02, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Could not be more pleased

UofU Patient July 20, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Communication with the patient is a big deal. We are full of stress and need know Lab results, explanations, treatment plans, prognosis, etc. I have been to SCA and City of Hope. You have the best Care providers, especially Dr Stephens.

UofU Patient July 13, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

You need a scale that goes to 10 for rating my confidence in Dr Stephens.

UofU Patient July 10, 2018
HUNTSMAN CANCER CENTER

5 out of 5 stars

Dr.Stephens is a good Doctor, but the person she was training was misinformed and had poor bed side manner

UofU Patient June 18, 2018

I would recommend Dr. Stephens in a heartbeat! Rarely have I had so much confidence in the quality and professionalism of my care provider!

UofU Patient June 16, 2018

Dr. Stephens and Natalie are the very best

UofU Patient June 08, 2018

Dr. Stephens is the best doctor ever...very helpful and spot on for treating my CLL and trust me I have seemed other providers you can tell she has genuine concern for you ...Thanks Doc for all you do for your patients

UofU Patient May 31, 2018

This was one of the best health care visits I've ever had. Both NP & DR were extremely helpful, informative and thorough in answering my many questions.

UofU Patient May 31, 2018

I like everything about Dr Stephens. It's unlikely I'd recommend her to anyone since IA don't know anyone else with leukemia.

UofU Patient May 27, 2018

Deborah Stephens, like Dr. Lowrance in Urology, is great with patient experience - in terms of listening closely to patient concerns, explaining things in lay language when possible, and a kind, caring nature.

UofU Patient May 12, 2018

very happy with the doctor

UofU Patient April 19, 2018

I saw Ranae V, Dr. Stephens NP (don't remember he last name). She was very efficient and answered all my questions.

UofU Patient April 15, 2018

dr Stephens and her PA treated my husband as if he was the only patient that day. wonderful.

UofU Patient December 07, 2017

well educated, great bed sidemanners

UofU Patient November 30, 2017

I like Dr. Stephens little pictures and diagrams she draws.

UofU Patient November 10, 2017

Dr. Stephens is the very best ever!!

UofU Patient October 31, 2017

Dr. Stephens is the essence of great medical care. Compassionate, very knowledgeable, caring, great follow through. She's a doctor's doctor.

UofU Patient October 20, 2017

this is a great caring place to come.

UofU Patient September 29, 2017

We were given some very informative information. We were very pleased with the care and information given.

UofU Patient September 17, 2017

Dr. Stephens is the best & I trust my CLL care to no one else.

UofU Patient August 25, 2017

Dr Stephens is an incredible and caring doctor.

UofU Patient August 24, 2017

I am blessed to be at Huntsman. Fantastic care and fantastic facility.

UofU Patient August 11, 2017

Dr Stephens and nurse Vadeboncoeur are the absolute best!!!!!!!

UofU Patient August 06, 2017

Doctor went through what she could without test results. I was not as prepared with my questions.

UofU Patient August 04, 2017

I really like working with Dr Stephens. She's pleasant and knowledgeable. She takes the time to explain my test results and lets me know what my options are regarding treatment. I am very satisfied with the care that I get from Dr. Stephens.

UofU Patient July 24, 2017

the assistant and doctor are excellant

UofU Patient June 16, 2017

so glad to have Dr. Stephens as my doctor.

UofU Patient June 09, 2017

Ignorance arrogance power by lack of understanding

UofU Patient June 09, 2017

Finding a good oncologist is REALLY important and the process can be an anxious one. What if you pick somebody that doesn't make you feel confident in their abilities. I feel extremely fortunate to have found Dr. Stephens. You can tell she knows her stuff, she explains things well. She seemed willing to take all the time necessary to answer all my questions and put me at ease. She is, frankly, an answer to prayers.

UofU Patient May 25, 2017

The dr and her assistant both spent quality time in explaining condition. they both had very good bed-side manner!

UofU Patient May 02, 2017

Best caring doctor.

UofU Patient April 14, 2017

Dr Stephens is one of the best physicians I have associated with. She is thorough, knowledgeable and very easy to talk to. She takes the time to really listen to your needs and explains things in very basic terms. She deals with our Dr in St George. We are so grateful for her expertise and care.

UofU Patient March 23, 2017

I am very impressed with the care and concern that Dr. Stephens has. She truly listened and answered everything we asked her and explained things to us to help us cope with what was a very stressful time for us.

UofU Patient March 09, 2017

the Doctors are extremely good and caring; I have the utmost confidence in Dr. Stephens and her team

UofU Patient March 04, 2017

Best Care In the World !

UofU Patient March 03, 2017

all of the providers were excellent.

UofU Patient February 16, 2017

Dr. Stephens is incredible; I feel fortunate to have her as my physician.

UofU Patient February 02, 2017

Dr Stevens is a person I have entrusted my life to in helping deal with my illness .. no words to fully describe that ..

UofU Patient January 12, 2017

Dr Stephens is an excellent Dr. I have had nothing but a positive experience as her patient and have told many people about her, people that are in need of a good cancer physician. She diagnosed my lymphoma back in August 2016, when several other Drs were unable to determine the cause of my illness.

UofU Patient January 12, 2017

Dr. Stephens is the best ever. I can't say enough good about her and her patient interface.

UofU Patient January 09, 2017

Dr. Stephens, Renee and the nursing staff made an otherwise difficult time in our lives much more bearable and nurturing.

UofU Patient December 23, 2016

Dr. Stephens is an excellent physician and we feel fortunate to have her as my care giver.

UofU Patient December 20, 2016

There couldn't be a better caring physician than Dr. Stevens. Superlative!

UofU Patient December 02, 2016

Dr. Stephens took so much time with me and was very caring. My husband & I were very impressed.

UofU Patient December 01, 2016

Extremely Positive Experience!

UofU Patient November 11, 2016

Received more explicit information concerning my condition, in this single visit, than I have been able to receive from my original oncologist back east in 4 years .. I will be able to answer Q4 & Q5 in depth after my next visit ..

UofU Patient November 11, 2016

I think Dr Stephens is great. I have confidence in her.

UofU Patient October 28, 2016

I love Dr. Stephens and feel very fortunate that she is my physician. I have always felt she personally cares about me as a patient and as a person. She has broken the barrier of physician and patient and our conversations are easy and comfortable because of her personality and style. She is a great physician and I'm lucky to have found her!

UofU Patient October 28, 2016

I don't believe I could have found a doctor and staff more concerned, competent, and reassuring

UofU Patient September 23, 2016

Dr. Stevens listened and recommend and went along with what I decided for my care at this time.

UofU Patient September 17, 2016

Dr. Stephens, Dr. Green and each member of her team were very professional, caring and encouraging at this difficult time.

UofU Patient September 10, 2016

Dr Stephens is an incredible physician. She's the one that found our problem, and has been so kind and so straightforward with us about the diagnosis and prognosis. We feel so fortunate to have her as the physician who handled our case. We had been 4-5 months trying to find the cause of my problem, and she was so knowledgeable about lymphoma, and knew what needed to be done.

UofU Patient August 22, 2016

I feel profoundly fortunate to have been assigned to Dr. Deborah Stephens as my oncologist. She is naturally very calming, reassuring and clear in all she reviews with me. I couldn't ask for better care!

UofU Patient August 21, 2016

I love Dr. Stephen's and her whole team. There is no doubt how much they care. I am lucky to have them.

UofU Patient July 26, 2016

I am so impressed with Dr. Deborah Stephens. She even called me to let me know about other tests she was scheduling so I wouldn't be surprised. How great is that?

UofU Patient July 18, 2016

Dr. Stephens is an amazingly supportive care provider. Dr. Stephens nursing staff, most outstanding, from our point of view, is Martie. Martie has, at times, such as the last visit, to make accommodation for a "tardy" patient. kudos to all involved for their help.

UofU Patient June 21, 2016

excellent experience

UofU Patient April 19, 2016

very good

UofU Patient April 01, 2016

I am very comfortable with Dr Stephens knowledge.

UofU Patient March 26, 2016

Dr. Stephens surpassed all of my expectations. She spent a long time going over everything.

UofU Patient March 25, 2016

all of the assistants, nurses, and All of the assistants, nurses and Dr. Stephens were wonderful and took the time to help us understand, what was needed and what would help.

UofU Patient March 25, 2016

Dr. Stephens is a wonderful doctor. I could not recommend her highly enough

UofU Patient March 20, 2016

Dr. Stephens and her staff are outstanding. I feel that I am in excellent hands.

UofU Patient March 04, 2016

The support staff and Dr. Stephens' staff, including Dr. Stephens, were exceptional.

UofU Patient March 04, 2016

Dr. Stevens is wonderfully kind and calm. She brings a much appreciated influence of calmness, reassurance and helpfulness. My questions are always answered patiently, and she provides much appreciated information.

UofU Patient February 12, 2016

All my questions were answered so that I could understand them and if I had to have the doctor or nurse repeat their answer it was fine with them.

UofU Patient December 04, 2015

Dr. Stephens is profoundly kind, patient, warm and thorough. I could not ask for anyone better. Dr. Stephen's nurse assistant is also very kind and friendly. Both instill peace of mind regarding my care.

UofU Patient November 23, 2015

I have complete confidence in the staff at the clinic2 and in Dr Deborah Stephens!!!!

UofU Patient August 27, 2015

Dr. Stephens is an amazing doctor.

UofU Patient August 07, 2015

took time to make sure my needs were met

UofU Patient June 20, 2015

We are very grateful to be in the care of Dr. Stephens!

UofU Patient June 19, 2015

Getting a diagnosis of cancer isn't easy but Dr. Stevens has made me feel much better about it. She is concerned and upbeat about promising new treatments.

UofU Patient May 22, 2015

I can't say enough about the support and upbeat atmosphere, especially when I was so worried. Very calming, and answered all my questions.

UofU Patient May 22, 2015

Dr Stephens was outstanding. We came here primarily for an second opinion and we could not have been more pleased. The doctor personally intervened to get all of the services we needed.

UofU Patient May 17, 2015

Dr. Debra Stephens is a wonderful person and very informative. I feel very blessed to have her as my Physician. She is very kind and understanding. Thanks

UofU Patient May 15, 2015

Excellent

UofU Patient January 21, 2015

Dr. Stephens has been respectful and compassionate in her interactions with us. She has spent several hours with us answering our questions, encouraging our thought process and researching treatment options. We are so thankful she is working with us.

UofU Patient January 14, 2015

Dr. Stephens has a great way of showing how much she cares for her patents in comforting during diagnosis, yet redirects in a positive manner. she is Amazing!

UofU Patient December 22, 2014

I have been so pleased with Dr. Stephens. She has gone above and beyond to address my concerns and to provide information to my husband.

UofU Patient November 29, 2014

The physician was excellent. We immediately related, spent time with me and did not rush me at all. We not only went over results and what she suspected was happening but put into place a game plan that I understood and could easily live with! She is EXCELLENT!

UofU Patient November 19, 2014

My wife & I feel very fortunate to have been referred to Huntsman & Dr.Stevens. Our questions about my diagnosis were answered in a clear & caring manner & I'm confident as more questions & issues arise they will be answered in the same manner.

Languages Spoken: English, Spanish


Deborah Stephens, DO joined the Division of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies as an Assistant Professor in 2014. She completed her internal medicine residency at Cleveland Clinic and fellowship training at Ohio State University. Dr. Stephens’s clinic focuses on patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and lymphoma. Her primary research interests include developing new targeted therapies for patients with CLL and lymphoma, studying resistance to current therapies, and developing supportive therapies for complications of CLL.. She is the Physician Leader of the Hematology Clinical Trials Division at Huntsman Cancer Institute and is the principal investigator on multiple clinical trials there. Her research has been widely published in influential journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine, Journal of Clinical Oncology, and Blood. She is a member of the editorial board for the Journal of Clinical Oncology. On a national level, she is an expert panelist for the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) CLL Guidelines Panel, which establishes and published the most widely referenced guidelines for the evaluation and treatment of patients with CLL. Dr. Stephens is the Physician Leader of the SWOG CLL Working Group Committee, which is a group of CLL experts from academic centers around the country who plan and implement national clinical trials to improve the standard-of-care for CLL patients across the country. Dr. Stephens is also a member of the medical board for the CLL Society, which is the largest patient-led CLL group in the country. The sum of Dr. Stephens's experiences demonstrate her deep commitment to improve the care of patients with CLL and lymphoma.

Academic Locations

School of Medicine

801-585-2626

30 N 1900 E
Hematology, 5C402
Salt Lake City, UT  84132

Board Certification and Academic Information

Academic Departments Internal Medicine - Assistant Professor
Academic Divisions Hematology/BMT
Board Certification American Board of Internal Medicine (Sub: Hematology)
American Board of Internal Medicine (Sub: Medical Oncology)

Education History

Fellowship The Ohio State University Medical Center
Hematology & Oncology
Chief Fellow
Residency The Ohio State University
Internal Medicine
Resident
Residency Cleveland Clinic
Internal Medicine
Resident
Professional Medical Kansas City University of Medicine
Osteopathic Medicine
D.O.
Undergraduate The University of Iowa
Health Sciences
B.S.

Selected Publications - Journal Articles

Journal Article

  1. Stephens DM, Boucher K, Kander E, Parikh SA, Parry EM, Shadman M, Pagel JM, Cooperrider J, Rhodes J, Mato A, Winter A, Hill B, Gaballa S, Danilov A, Phillips T, Brander DM, Smith SM, Davids M, Rogers K, Glenn MJ, Byrd JC (2020). Hodgkin lymphoma arising in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia: outcomes from a large multi-center collaboration. Haematologica, Online ahead of print.
  2. Kittai AS, Huang Y, Gordon M, Denlinger N, Mian A, Fitzgerald L, Bishop J, Nagle S, Stephens DM, Jaglowski S, Hill B, Danilov AV (2020). Comorbidities Predict Inferior Survival in Patients Receiving Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy for Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma: A Multicenter Analysis. (Epub ahead of print) Biol Blood Marrow Transplant.
  3. Persky DO, Li H, Stephens DM, Park SI, Bartlett NL, Swinnen LJ, Barr PM, Winegarden JD 3rd, Constine LS, Fitzgerald TJ, Leonard JP, Kahl BS, LeBlanc ML, Song JY, Fisher RI, Rimsza LM, Smith SM, Miller TP, Friedberg JW (2020). Positron Emission Tomography-Directed Therapy for Patients With Limited-Stage Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Results of Intergroup National Clinical Trials Network Study S1001. J Clin Oncol, 38(26), 3003-3011.
  4. Koffman B, Mato A, Byrd J, Danilov A, Hedrick B, Ujjani C, Roeker L, Stephens DM, Davids M, Pagel JM, Shadman M (2020). A survey of CLL experts opinion on management of patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Clin Oncol, E199-E203..
  5. Byrd JC, Wierda WG, Schuh A, Devereux S, Chaves JM, Brown JR, Hillmen P, Martin P, Awan FT, Stephens DM, Ghia P, Barrientos J, Pagel JM, Woyach JA, Burke K, Covey T, Gulrajani M, Hamdy A, Izumi R, Frigault MM, Patel P, Rothbaum W, Wang MH, OBrien S, Furman RR (2018). Acalabrutinib monotherapy in patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia: updated phase 2 results. Blood, 135(15), 1204-1213.
  6. Gordon MJ, Sitlinger A, Salous T, Alqahtani H, Churnetski M, Rivera X, Wisniewski P, Cohen J, Patel K, Shadman M, Choi M, Hill B, Stephens DM, Persky D, Brander D, Danilov AD (2020). A simplified prognostic index for chronic lymphocytic leukemia treated with ibrutinib: results from a multicenter retrospective cohort study. Leuk Res.
  7. Stephens DM (2019). Venetoclax and obinutuzumab for frontline treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Blood, 134(20), 1691-1696.
  8. Stephens DM, Li H, Schder H, Straus DJ, Moskowitz CH, LeBlanc M, Rimsza LM, Bartlett NL, Evens AM, LaCasce AS, Barr PM, Knopp MV, Hsi ED, Leonard JP, Kahl BS, Smith SM, Friedberg JW (2019). Five-year follow-up of SWOG S0816: limitations and values of a PET-adapted approach with stage III/IV Hodgkin lymphoma. Blood, 134(15), 1238-1246.
  9. Geer M, Roberts E, Shango M, Till BG, Smith SD, Abbas H, Hill BT, Kaplan J, Barr PM, Caimi P, Stephens DM, Lin E, Herrera AF, Rosenbaum E, Amengual JE, Boonstra PS, Devata S, Wilcox RA, Kaminski MS, Phillips TJ (2019). Multicentre retrospective study of intravascular large B-cell lymphoma treated at academic institutions within the United States. Br J Haematol, 186(2), 255-262.
  10. Awan FT, Schuh A, Brown JR, Furman RR, Pagel JM, Hillmen P, Stephens DM, Woyach J, Bibikova E, Charuworn P, Frigault MM, Hamdy A, Izumi R, Linghu B, Patel P, Wang MH, Byrd JC (2018). Acalabrutinib monotherapy in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia who are intolerant to ibrutinib. Blood Adv, 3(9), 1553-1562.
  11. Stephens DM, Byrd JC (2019). How I manage ibrutinib intolerance and complications in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Blood, 133(12), 1298-1307.
  12. Stephens DM (2019). Highs and lows of minimal residual disease in CLL. Blood, 133(5), 386-388.
  13. Vrontikis A, Carey J, Gilreath JA, Halwani A, Stephens DM, Sweetenham JW (2016). Proposed Algorithm for Managing Ibrutinib-Related Atrial Fibrillation. Oncology (Williston Park), 30(11), 970-4, 980-1, C3.
  14. Stephens DM, Li H, LeBlanc ML, Puvvada SD, Persky D, Friedberg JW, Smith SM (2016). Continued Risk of Relapse Independent of Treatment Modality in Limited-Stage Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Final and Long-Term Analysis of Southwest Oncology Group Study S8736. J Clin Oncol, 34(25), 2997-3004.
  15. Luo C, Deng Z, Li L, Clayton F, Chen AL, Wei R, Miles R, Stephens DM, Glenn M, Wang X, Jensen PE, Chen X (2016). Association of rituximab with graphene oxide confers direct cytotoxicity for CD20-positive lymphoma cells. Oncotarget, 7(11), 12806-22.
  16. Byrd JC, Harrington B, OBrien S, Jones JA, Schuh A, Devereux S, Chaves J, Wierda WG, Awan FT, Brown JR, Hillmen P, Stephens DM, Ghia P, Barrientos JC, Pagel JM, Woyach J, Johnson D, Huang J, Wang X, Kaptein A, Lannutti BJ, Covey T, Fardis M, McGreivy J, Hamdy A, Rothbaum W, Izumi R, Diacovo TG, Johnson AJ, Furman RR (2016). Acalabrutinib (ACP-196) in Relapsed Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. N Engl J Med, 374(4), 323-32.
  17. Stephens DM, Ruppert AS, Weirda WG, Jones JA, Woyach JA, Maddocks K, Jaglowski SM, Andritsos LA, Flynn JM, Grever MR, Lozanski G, Tam C, OBrien S, Keating MJ, Muthusamy N, Abruzzo LV, Heerema NA, Byrd JC (2015). Externally validated predictive clinical model for untreated del(17p13.1) chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients. Am J Hematol, 90(11), 967-9.
  18. Stephens DM, Spurgeon SE (2015). Ibrutinib in mantle cell lymphoma patients: glass half full? Evidence and opinion. Ther Adv Hematol, 6(5), 242-52.
  19. Miller CR, Stephens D, Ruppert AS, Racke F, McFaddin A, Breidenbach H, Lin HJ, Waller K, Bannerman T, Jones JA, Woyach JA, Andritsos LA, Maddocks K, Zhao W, Lozanski G, Flynn JM, Grever M, Byrd JC, Heerema NA (2015). Jumping translocations, a novel finding in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Br J Haematol, 170(2), 200-7.
  20. Rogers KA, Salem G, Stephens DM, Andritsos LA, Awan FT, Byrd JC, Flynn JM, Maddocks KJ, Huang Y, Ruppert AS, Jones JA (2015). A single-institution retrospective cohort study of patients treated with R-EPOCH for Richter’s transformation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Blood, 126(23), 2951.
  21. Stephens DM, Ruppert AS, Jones JA, Woyach J, Maddocks K, Jaglowski SM, Andritsos LA, Flynn JM, Grever MR, Lozanski G, Johnson AJ, Muthusamy N, Heerema NA, Byrd JC (2014). Impact of targeted therapy on outcome of chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients with relapsed del(17p13.1) karyotype at a single center. Leukemia, 28(6), 1365-8.
  22. Cheney CM, Stephens DM, Mo X, Rafiq S, Butchar J, Flynn JM, Jones JA, Maddocks K, OReilly A, Ramachandran A, Tridandapani S, Muthusamy N, Byrd JC (2014). Ocaratuzumab, an Fc-engineered antibody demonstrates enhanced antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity in chronic lymphocytic leukemia. mAbs, 6(3), 749-55.
  23. Stephens DM, Ruppert AS, Maddocks K, Andritsos L, Baiocchi R, Jones J, Johnson AJ, Smith LL, Zhao Y, Ling Y, Li J, Phelps MA, Grever MR, Byrd JC, Flynn JM (2013). Cyclophosphamide, alvocidib (flavopiridol), and rituximab, a novel feasible chemoimmunotherapy regimen for patients with high-risk chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Leuk Res, 37(10), 1195-9.
  24. Stephens DM, Stark A, Jones JA, Woyach JA, Maddocks K, Jaglowski SM, Andritsos LA, Flynn JM, Grever MR, Lozanski G, Johnson AJ, Muthusamy N, Heerema NA, Byrd JC (2013). Changing the treatment paradigm for previously treated chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients with del(17p) karyotype. Blood, 122(21), 2872.
  25. Stephens DM, Byrd JC (2013). Chronic lymphocytic leukemia with del(17p13.1): a distinct clinical subtype requiring novel treatment approaches. Oncology (Williston Park), 26(11), 1044-54.
  26. Stephens DM, Ruppert AS, Blum K, Jones J, Flynn JM, Johnson AJ, Ji J, Phelps MA, Grever MR, Byrd JC (2012). Flavopiridol treatment of patients aged 70 or older with refractory or relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia is a feasible and active therapeutic approach. Haematologica, 97(3), 423-7.
  27. Stephens DM, Ruppert AS, Blum K, Jones J, Flynn JM, Johnson AJ, Ji J, Phelps MA, Grever MR, and Byrd JC (03/01/2012). Flavopiridol treatment of patients aged 70 or older with refractory or relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia is a feasible and active therapeutic approach. Haematologica, 97(3), 423-427.
  28. Mickelson DM, Sproat L, Dean R, Sobecks R, Rybicki L, Kalaycio M, Pohlman B, Sweetenham J, Andresen S, Bolwell B, Copelan EA (2011). Comparison of donor chimerism following myeloablative and nonmyeloablative allogeneic hematopoietic SCT. Bone Marrow Transplant, 46(1), 84-9.
  29. Mickelson DM, Hatem S, and Copelan E (02/01/2010). Granulocyte Simulating-Colony Factor-Associated Splenic Artery Rupture. Leuk Lymphoma, 51(2), 335-337.

Review

  1. Voorhies BN, Stephens DM (2017). What Is Optimal Front-Line Therapy for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia in 2017? [Review]. Curr Treat Options Oncol, 18(2), 12.
  2. Stephens DM, Sweetenham JW (04/11/2015). Clinical controversies of double-hit lymphoma. [Review]. Am J Hematol Oncol, 11(4), 10-16.
  3. Stephens DM, Byrd JC (2013). Improving the treatment outcome of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia through targeted antibody therapy. [Review]. Hematol Oncol Clin North Am, 27(2), 303-27.
  4. Stephens DM, Byrd JC (11/1/2012). Chronic lymphocytic leukemia with del(17p13.1): A distinct clinical subtype requiring novel treatment approaches. [Review]. Oncology, 11, 1044-1054.
  5. Stephens DM, Byrd JC (2012). Ask the hematologists: Is there a standard of care for treating older patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia? [Review]. The Hematologist, 9(4), 4.
  6. Mickelson DM, Mady E, and Teng K (2009). A 43 year-old woman with chest pressure: a review of hypercoagulable states. [Review]. Cleve Clin J Med, 76(3), 191-8.

Conference Proceedings

  1. Haverkos BM, Schowinksy J, Kaplan JB, Kamdar M, Kanate AS, Saad A, Ganguly S, Flowers M, Fenske TS, Hari P, Hamadani M, Lowsky R, Andritsos L, Jagasia M, Brown S, Armand P, Merryman R, Bachanova V, Stephens DM, Nakumura R, Gutman J, Devine SM (12/03/2016). Checkpoint blockade for treatment of lymphoma following allogeneic stem cell transplant: use may be complicated by onset of severe acute graft versus host disease. American Society of Hematology Meeting, San Diego.
  2. Stephens DM, Starodub AN, Byrd JC, Wegener, WA, Horne H, Goldenberg, DM, Christian BA (07/15/2016). Subcutaneous injections of IMMU-114 (anti-HLA-DR IgG4 monoclonal antibody): Initial results of a phase I first-in-man study in hematologic malignancies. Pan-Pacific Lymphoma Conference, Poipu, Hawaii.
  3. Byrd JC, Jones JA, Furman RR, Stephens DM, Devereux S, Brown JR, Hillmen P, Hamdy AM, Wang MH, Patel P, Mittag D, Krantz M, Rothbaum W, Izumi R, OBrien SM, Wierda WG (06/15/2016). Acalabrutinib, a second-generation Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia. American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting, Chicago.
  4. Stephens DM, Starodub AN, Byrd JC, Wegener, WA, Horne H, Goldenberg, DM, Christian BA (12/01/2015). Subcutaneous injections of IMMU-114 (anti-HLA-DR IgG4 monoclonal antibody): Initial results of a phase I first-in-man study in hematologic malignancies. Orlando, Florida: American Society of Hematology Meeting.
  5. Stephens DM, LeBlanc ML, Li H, Miller TP, Puvvada SD, Persky D, Friedberg J, Smith SM (06/19/2015). Continued risk of relapse independent of treatment modality in limted stage diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: Final and long-term analysis of SWOG study S8736. 13th International Conference on Malignant Lymphoma, Lugano, Switzerland.
  6. Stephens DM, Stark A, Jones JA, Woyach JA, Maddocks K, Jaglowski SM, Andritsos LA, Flynn JM, Grever MR, Lozanski G, Johnson AJ, Muthusamy N, Heerema NA, Byrd JC (2013). Changing the treatment paradigm for previously treated chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients with del(17p) karyotype. New Orleans, LA: American Society of Hematology Meeting.
  7. Stephens DM, Cheney CM, Mo X, Rafiq S, Butchar J, Flynn JM, Jones JA, Maddocks K, OReilly A, Ramachandran A, Tidandapani S, Muthusamy N, and Byrd JC (2013). Ocaratuzumab, a proposed effective and convenient alternative for treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Cologne, Germany: International Workshop on Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia.
  8. Stephens DM, Ruppert AS, Woyach JA, Maddocks K, Jaglowski SM, Andritsos LA, Jones JA, Flynn JM, Grever MR, Hareema N, Muthusamy N, and Byrd JC (06/01/2013). Predictive clinical model for untreated del(17p13.1) chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients. Stockholm, Sweden: European Hematology Association International Congress.
  9. Stephens DM, Maddocks K, Andritsos L, Baiocchi R, Jones J, Phelps M, Johnson AJ, Smith L, Grever MR, Byrd JC, and Flynn JM (06/01/2012). Phase I feasibility trial of cyclophosphamide, alvocidib (flavopiridol) and rituximab in patients with high-risk b-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma. Amsterdam, Netherlands: European Hematology Association International Congress.
  10. Mickelson D, Sproat L, Dean R, Sobecks R, Rybicki L, Kalaycio M, Pohlman B, Sweetenham J, Andresen S, Bolwell B, and Copelan E (02/01/2009). T-cell engraftment kinetics following myeloablative and nonmyeloablative regimens for allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation. Tampa, Florida: American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation.

Commentary

  1. Stephens DM (2016). Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: An Archaic Intervention or a Necessary Evil? Oncology (Williston Park), 30(6), 539-40.

Case Report

  1. Fitzgerald L, Stephens DM (2020). Burkitt Lymphoma Presenting as Cranial Multineuritis Secondary to Primary Neurolymphomatosis: A Diagnostic Challenge. Clin Lymphoma Myeloma Leuk, 20(4), e201-e204.
  2. Laggis C, Miles R, Stephens DM, Duffy K, Bowen A, Wada D (2019). Cutaneous mantle cell lymphoma histomorphologically mimicking subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma: Case report. J Cutan Pathol, 46(7), 538-541.

Letter

  1. Stephens DM, Schoder H, Li H, Friedberg J (2020). Reply: Interim PET Assessment of Advanced Hodgkin Lymphoma: Is It Sufficient? [Letter to the editor]. J Nucl Med, 61(11), 1695.
  2. Koffman B, Mato A, Byrd JC, Danilov A, Hedrick B, Ujjani C, Roeker L, Stephens DM, Davids MS, Pagel JM, Shadman M (2020). Management of CLL patients early in the COVID-19 pandemic: An international survey of CLL experts. [Letter to the editor]. Am J Hematol, 95(8), E199-E203.

Abstract

  1. Giulino-Roth L, ODonohue T, Chen Z, Bartlett NL, LaCasce A, Martin-Doyle W, Barth MJ, Davies K, Blum KA, Christian B, Casulo C, Smith SM, Godfrey J, Termuhlen A, Oberlye MJ, Alexander S, Weitzman S, Appel B, Mizukawa B, Svoboda J, Afify Z, Pauly M, Dave H, Gardner R, Stephens DM, Zeitler WA, Forlenza C, Levine J, Williams ME, Sima JL, Bollard CM, Leonard JP (2017). Outcomes of adults, adolescents, and children with primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma treated with dose-adjusted EPOCH-R therapy: a multicenter retrospective analysis [Abstract]. Hematological Oncology, 35(S2), 61-2.
  2. Awan FT, Schuh A, Brown JR, Furman RR, Pagel JM, Hillmen P, Stephens DM, Hamdy A, Huang J, Izumi R, Patel P, Wang MH, Byrd JC (12/03/2016). Acalabrutinib monotherapy in patients with ibrutinibi: results from the phase 1/2 ACE-CL-001 clinical study [Abstract]. Blood, 128(22), 638.
  3. Stephens DM, Ruppert AS, Christian B, Jones J, Flynn JM, Porcu P, Baiocchi R, Byrd JC, Dotson EK, Crawford BS, and Blum KA (2012). Toxicity in patients 65 years with dose adjusted REPOCH for untreated diffuse large B cell lymphoma [Abstract]. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 30(suppl), 15.

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