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Neal Prakash,

M.D., Ph.D.

Chief, Division of Neurology; Clinical Professor, Department of Medicine; Professor, Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases

4.9 (88 Ratings)
Biography photo
Location
City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center - Duarte
1500 East Duarte Road
Duarte, CA 91010
Specialties
Neurology
Education
Medical school:
  • 2001, M.D., Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California Irvine College of Medicine
Residency:

Neal Prakash, M.D., Ph.D., is a neurologist and neuroscientist recognized for his groundbreaking work in brain plasticity, neuroimaging and neurovascular health. He is currently the chief of the Division of Neurology, with academic appointments in the Departments of Medicine and Neurodegenerative Diseases at City of Hope® Cancer Center Duarte. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Prakash has advanced the understanding of functional brain mapping using optical imaging, as well as contributing to research on brain neuroplasticity and conditions such as migraines, ataxia and chemotherapy-related neuropathy. Dr. Prakash has published extensively in leading journals, contributed to book chapters and abstracts and presented lectures worldwide on innovations in brain imaging and clinical neurology. 

In addition, he has been deeply engaged in clinical research involving brain tumors, neurodegenerative disorders and the neurological challenges linked to cancer, building connections between basic science and real-world patient care. Widely respected for both his scientific expertise and his dedication to patients, Dr. Prakash continues to lead efforts that explore and improve how cancer treatments affect the nervous system.

Academic Appointments
  • Chief, Division of Neurology
  • Clinical Professor, Department of Medicine
  • Director of Neuro-optical Imaging
About Me

Neal Prakash, M.D., Ph.D., is a neurologist and neuroscientist renowned for his extensive research in brain plasticity, neuroimaging and neurovascular function. Over the course of his career, he has made significant contributions to the understanding of functional brain mapping through optical imaging techniques, neuroplasticity and neurological disorders such as migraines, chemotherapy-induced neuropathy and ataxia. Dr. Prakash has authored numerous influential journal articles, book chapters, abstracts and has delivered invited talks around the world, highlighting advances in brain imaging and clinical neurology. He has also been actively involved in clinical research on brain tumors, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer-related neurological complications, bridging basic neuroscience with translational medicine. Overall, Dr. Prakash is widely recognized for his expertise in neurology, compassionate patient care and leadership in advancing research on the neurological effects of cancer treatments.

Patient reviews
The patient ratings and comments on this page are obtained from an external Press Ganey® outpatient survey provided to all eligible City of Hope patients within one to two weeks of their treatment occurrence. Raw data from the answers to the survey questions about our physicians are calculated by Press Ganey into a one- to five- star rating. In the spirit of transparency, all patient comments are posted as written by the patient, whether they are positive or negative. We only exclude comments if they are deemed to be slanderous or libelous, contain profanity or vulgar language, or do not relate to the patient's experience with the doctor involved. As a result, the comments are the views and opinions of the patients surveyed and are not endorsed by, and may not necessarily reflect the opinion of, City of Hope.
Mar 30, 2026
5.0
"Very good"
Mar 30, 2026
5.0
"Very good experience"
Mar 7, 2026
5.0
"I would definitely recommend this doctor. He knows what he's doing."
Mar 7, 2026
5.0
"Everyone has always been so nice, helpful and courteous. I will never forget the care I have received for almost ten years."
Feb 20, 2026
4.3
"Appreciate COH! [...]"
Feb 20, 2026
4.3
"Routine procedure, listened to comments, suggested recommendations . Pleasant to work with. Never had previous psychologist(s) with more Individualized /less standardized programmed approach. Is this the current method ?"
Feb 4, 2026
5.0
"Dr Prakash is one of the best specialists I have seen -very thorough. Looked at all test results and background information and provided provided sound suggestions - very impressed with him."
Jan 31, 2026
5.0
"The best"
Nov 21, 2025
5.0
"Above and beyond care"
Oct 6, 2025
5.0
"I always go with [...], my sister, to her appointments and Dr. Prakash has given us 100% of his attention and listens to our concerns."
Oct 4, 2025
5.0
"The doctor was very knowledgeable about medical history listened to all my concerns"
Oct 4, 2025
5.0
"Dr Prakash and staff so helpful and the experience was great would recommend to others"
Sep 29, 2025
5.0
"Good"
Sep 29, 2025
5.0
"Good"
Sep 20, 2025
5.0
"I was so appreciative of the thorough explanation and evaluation by Dr. Prakash during my consultation."
Sep 7, 2025
5.0
"Dr. Prakash, his nurses [...] and [...] are outstanding. They are always friendly, compassionate, and care about your well-being. You are not just a "number"."
Sep 7, 2025
5.0
"Already recommended Dr. Prakash [...]"
Sep 7, 2025
5.0
"Already recommended Dr. Prakash. He is now one of my favorite doctors, along with [...]"
Sep 2, 2025
5.0
"Dr. Prakash is not just brilliant, he is also very caring. He sorted out my condition immediately, after years of misdiagnoses and multiple trips to the emergency room. He is a keeper!"
Aug 14, 2025
5.0
"I love Dr Prakash - truly a doctor - easy communication- very very expert in his field -"
Aug 14, 2025
5.0
"Excellent Doctors"
Aug 6, 2025
5.0
"Dr. Prakash is OUTSTANDING!!"
Jun 27, 2025
5.0
"Dr. Prakash is the Best!"