M.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.P.
Hematologic Oncologist; Clinical Professor of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
If curative therapy is possible, my overall goal for my patients is a curative outcome. If it’s not possible, then I want to give them as much quality time with their families as possible, because that’s something I can do that’s positive and meaningful.
University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, IL
Pathology – Rush Medical Center, Chicago, IL
Internal Medicine – Michael Reese Hospital, Chicago, IL
Hematology-Oncology – University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Master of Business Administration – National Louis University, Chicago, IL
Clinical Professor, Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology and Hematology – American Board of Internal Medicine
Jacob D. Bitran, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.P., is a renowned expert in hematologic malignancies and a Clinical Professor of Hematology and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation at City of Hope® Cancer Center Chicago. Dr. Bitran is a dedicated and highly respected expert in the field of hematology, with more than 50 years’ experience working with patients with a wide range of blood cancers and disorders. Prior to joining City of Hope, he led transformative programs in hematologic malignancies and stem cell transplantation at both the University of Chicago and Lutheran General Hospital, where he also served as president of the institution’s medical staff.
But Dr. Bitran’s interest in pursuing a career in medicine stems from his very earliest years.
“When I was 7, I was deeply influenced by our family primary care provider,” he recalls. “He was always available to us, he was kind, and he helped me with trivial injuries in the same way he treated my mother and father.”
After attending medical school at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago, Dr. Bitran completed an internship and residency at Michael Reese Hospital, in the same city where an inspiring chief resident set him on the path to a career in oncology. Dr. Bitran completed his medical training with a residency in pathology at Rush Medical Center and a fellowship in hematology-oncology at the University of Chicago.
Dr. Bitran’s clinical interests continue to focus on both indolent and high-grade lymphoma, multiple myeloma and high-risk leukemias. He is passionate about delivering curative therapies and advancing transplant options, including exploring autologous transplants for conditions like multiple sclerosis. In joining City of Hope, Dr. Bitran is excited to help build a robust hematopoietic stem cell transplantation program that brings the latest in blood cancer care to patients in the Chicagoland area.
A respected physician-scholar, Dr. Bitran has authored or co-authored more than 150 peer-reviewed publications and dozens of book chapters. He remains active in multiple professional associations, including the American Society of Hematology, the International Society of Experimental Hematology, and the American Society of Bone Marrow and Blood Transplantation. Since 2007, he has been honored to be included on both the “Best Doctors in America” and “Who’s Who in America?” lists of notable physicians, among many other honors. He serves on numerous national cancer care committees and is a diplomate of the American Board of Internal Medicine. Dedicated to staying abreast of the current developments in oncology, he remains active in both research projects and academic mentorship.
Outside of City of Hope, Dr. Bitran enjoys going to the gym and spending time with his wife, their two daughters and their four grandchildren.