Dr. Amelie Fontaine – Oncologist / Hematologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Amelie Fontaine is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemias and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Edmonton, AB, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematologic care. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, safe, and evidence-based treatment. Dr. Fontaine addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions to improve patient outcomes.

She graduated with a MD (Doctor of Medicine) from Université de Sherbrooke in 2001 and completed extensive post-graduate training and certification in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Her advanced education equips her with the latest knowledge and skills to deliver specialized blood disorder treatment, including complex diagnostic workups and innovative therapies.

Dedicated to a patient-centered approach, Dr. Fontaine emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based medicine, and supportive care. She is committed to advancing research in hematology and providing compassionate, personalized care to adults with suspected or diagnosed blood cancers or blood disorders. Fluent in English and French, she strives to communicate clearly and effectively with her patients and their families, fostering an environment of trust and understanding.

Dr. Amelie Fontaine has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): A type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects white blood cells called lymphocytes, common in children but also occurs in adults.
• Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) (e.g., Diffuse Large B-Cell, Follicular, Mantle Cell): A diverse group of blood cancers that develop from lymphocytes, with many different subtypes requiring tailored treatments.

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• Thrombophilia & Acquired Clotting Disorders (e.g., DVT/PE management, Antiphospholipid Syndrome): Conditions that increase the tendency to form blood clots, requiring anticoagulation therapy and management.
• Hereditary Hemochromatosis & Other Iron Overload States: Genetic or acquired conditions leading to excessive iron accumulation in the body, requiring management to prevent organ damage.
• Hemolytic Anemia (e.g., Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia - AIHA): A disorder in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can produce them.

This list provides examples of common conditions treated and is not exhaustive. Cancer and blood disorders are complex, and treatment is highly individualized. For personalized advice, please discuss your specific situation with Dr. Amelie Fontaine or your referring physician.

• Management of Bleeding Disorders (Hemophilia, Von Willebrand Disease, Platelet Function Disorders): Care for inherited and acquired conditions that affect the body's ability to form blood clots properly, including factor replacement therapies.
• Management of Clotting Disorders / Thrombophilia (Inherited & Acquired): Diagnosis, anticoagulation therapy, and long-term management for conditions predisposing to abnormal blood clots (e.g., DVT, PE, Factor V Leiden, Antiphospholipid Syndrome).
• Comprehensive Oncologic & Hematologic Consultation: In-depth evaluation of medical history, review of diagnostic imaging and pathology, cancer staging (if applicable), and development of personalized treatment plans for various cancers and blood disorders.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
• Diagnosis & Management of Multiple Myeloma, Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia & Other Plasma Cell Dyscrasias: Specialized care for cancers arising from plasma cells, utilizing novel agents, chemotherapy, and supportive care, including stem cell transplant coordination.
• Diagnosis & Multimodal Management of Leukemias (AML, ALL, CLL, CML, Hairy Cell): Comprehensive care for various types of leukemia, including diagnostic workup (bone marrow interpretation, cytogenetics, molecular testing), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and coordination for stem cell transplant where indicated.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Fontaine provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Fontaine or your healthcare team for details relevant to your care.

All medical services and treatments are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.

Dr. Fontaine practices at a specialized cancer centre located within a hospital department in Edmonton, situated in the vibrant S Central neighborhood near the University of Alberta, Garneau, Windsor Park. The facility is conveniently accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) including light rail transit (LRT) and bus routes. It is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, ensuring easy access for patients and visitors. The centre's strategic location offers proximity to local landmarks such as the Edmonton Elks CFL Team, making it a convenient choice for those seeking expert hematologic care in Edmonton.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Fontaine, an Hematologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests (like biopsies, imaging reviews), chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, radiation therapy planning and delivery, and management of blood disorders by a licensed Hematologist such as Dr. Fontaine are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Specific drug coverage for newer therapies can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. It's always recommended to discuss coverage specifics with Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), Dr. Fontaine's office, the hospital's patient financial services, or the cancer care navigation services at the treatment facility.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Fontaine, an Hematologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Fontaine for assessment or treatment of cancer or significant hematological conditions. This ensures that your primary care provider is involved in your care continuum and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific situation. Cancer care programs often have centralized intake systems that manage referrals to ensure timely access.

What are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Fontaine help manage them?

Chemotherapy can cause various side effects, which differ depending on the specific drugs used, the dose, and individual patient factors. Common ones include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, changes in appetite, diarrhea or constipation, and increased risk of infection due to low blood counts. Dr. Fontaine and the oncology nursing team will discuss potential side effects of your specific treatment plan in detail and will actively work to prevent and manage them with medications (e.g., anti-nausea drugs, growth factors to boost blood counts), supportive care advice (nutrition, hydration, rest), and regular monitoring. Open communication about any side effects you experience is very important for effective management.

What is targeted therapy in cancer treatment?

Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific types of cancer cells with less harm to normal cells. These therapies work by targeting specific genes or proteins found in cancer cells or cells related to cancer growth, like blood vessel cells. Genetic testing of the tumor is often done to see if a targeted therapy is likely to be effective. Dr. Fontaine can explain if targeted therapy is an option for your cancer.

How does cancer or blood disorder treatment differ for children compared to adults?

[IF PROVIDER IS PEDIATRIC SPECIALIST:] As a Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist, Dr. Fontaine specializes in these differences. Children's bodies react differently to treatments, and the types of cancers and blood disorders are often distinct from adult conditions. Treatment protocols are specifically designed for pediatric patients, considering their growth and development. Care is family-centered, involving parents and caregivers closely in decision-making and support. [ELSE:] Treatment for children with cancer or blood disorders is highly specialized and managed by Pediatric Hematologists/Oncologists. They use protocols tailored to children, considering long-term effects on growth and development.

What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Fontaine?

After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Fontaine will develop a survivorship care plan with you. This plan typically includes a schedule for follow-up appointments and tests to monitor for any signs of recurrence, management of any long-term side effects from treatment, recommendations for healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise), and coordination with your family doctor for ongoing general health care. The goal is to support your long-term health and well-being.

How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Fontaine?

Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Fontaine, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, specialized oncology nurses, pharmacists, social workers, dietitians, genetic counselors, and palliative care specialists. Regular team meetings (often called tumor boards or MDT meetings) usually occur to discuss individual patient cases and develop comprehensive, coordinated treatment plans. Dr. Fontaine works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.

11560 University Ave NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z2

Phone: (780) 432-8248 | Fax: (780) 432-8888

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Fontaine is a licensed Hematologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or other specialist is required for most consultations and treatments under the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=bfb17713-642f-4131-868c-f2f102606940&i=475