At Azra AI, we take immense pride in recognizing individuals who embody excellence, compassion, and innovation in oncology care. This month, we are honored to spotlight Dr. Lekan Ajayi, PharmD, MBA, FACCC, Chief Operating Officer at Highlands Oncology Group, as our Oncology Hero!
Commitment to Patient-Centered Care
Dr. Ajayi’s journey into oncology is one of passion, dedication, and transformative impact. Originally from Nigeria, he moved to the United States in 2003 to study pharmacy at the University of Wyoming. After earning his pharmacy degree, he worked in various hospital settings, where he discovered his true calling in oncology.
Reflecting on the moment he realized oncology was his path, Dr. Ajayi shared a deeply personal experience: while working as a pharmacist, he went to great lengths to secure insurance approval for a late-stage melanoma patient’s oral therapy. Years later, that same patient approached him and said, “Do you realize that you’re my best friend? It’s because of the effort you made that I believe I’m alive today.” This encounter transformed what was once a profession into a mission.
Leveraging Technology in Oncology
As a leader in oncology, Dr. Ajayi has seen firsthand the barriers to innovation in healthcare. He emphasizes the importance of not just adopting new technologies but also preparing people for change. His time as president of the Association of Cancer Care Centers reinforced his belief in upskilling the workforce to embrace innovation effectively. At Highlands Oncology Group, he fosters a culture that encourages permission to try, permission to fail, and permission to improve, ensuring that his team remains at the forefront of oncology care.
Heroes of a Hero: Who Inspires Dr. Ajayi
Dr. Ajayi attributes much of his leadership philosophy to exceptional mentors, including a nurse and Lean training expert Paula Roe, who taught him the power of aligning continuous improvement with organizational culture early in his career. He also credits Dr. J.Thaddeus Beck and Dr. Daniel Bradford, founding leaders at Highlands Oncology Group, for instilling the belief that when you prioritize patient care above all else, success naturally follows.
Under Lekan's operational leadership, Highlands Oncology Group continues to push boundaries, integrating technology and people-driven solutions to enhance patient outcomes. His approach of balancing operational excellence with human compassion makes him a truly deserving honoree for Oncology Hero of the Month.
Dr. Ajayi’s commitment to patient-first innovation, workforce empowerment, and compassionate leadership is truly defining the future of oncology care, and we are honored to recognize him as our Oncology Hero of the Month. Congratulations, Dr. Ajayi, and thank you for your unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of cancer patients.
Hear our full interview with Dr. Ajayi in the video below:
Stay tuned for April's Oncology Hero as we continue to celebrate those who are shaping the future of cancer care.
