Hematologic Oncology (Blood Cancers)

The Division of Hematology and Hematologic Oncology provides care for patients with disorders of the blood including blood cancers. The most common blood cancers are lymphoma (cancers of the lymph nodes), leukemia (cancers of the white blood cells) and myeloma (cancers of the bone marrow).

A team of hematologists, nurse practitioners, clinical assistants, nurses, pharmacists, trainees and others provide treatments which include:

• Systemic therapy
• Stem cell transplants
• CAR-T therapy

Patient care is provided in both inpatient and outpatient settings, depending on the kind of treatment a patient is receiving.

How do I access services?

A physician referral is required to access Division of Hematology and Hematologic Oncology services

How do I preapre for my first appointment?

In preparation for the patient’s first appointment, the patient will be contacted to arrange for some medical tests.

The patient should bring a list of all medications (including vitamins and other natural health products) they are currently taking to their first appointment. They should also write out any questions they want to ask the doctor.

During the patient’s first appointment, the hematologist will talk with the patient, take their health history, do a physical exam, and discuss the result of any tests and suggested next steps. The hematologist may also talk with the patient about a bone marrow test if they believe this would be helpful. A bone marrow biopsy uses a sterile needle to take a sample of bone marrow. The bone marrow is the factory where blood cells are made. The patient is given pain medication. This sample can help diagnose what is going on in the blood. The biopsy takes about 20 minutes. It is often done during the first appointment if the patient agrees.

What should I expect at my appointment?

A letter describing the treatment plan is sent to the referring doctor after every appointment the patient has with the hematologist. If follow-up is needed, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled. Any tests and blood work needed would also be scheduled.

Additional Resources

See our library of patient education resources for more information.