About
Dr. Caroline Girouard is a highly skilled Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, offering expert care in the diagnosis and systemic treatment of both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. Practicing at Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal in Montréal, QC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care. She adheres to the rigorous standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that her practice aligns with the highest professional and ethical guidelines. Dr. Girouard offers personalized management strategies for a broad range of cancers and complex blood disorders, focusing on improving patient outcomes and quality of life for adults with suspected or diagnosed conditions.
With a Medical Degree earned in 1992, Dr. Girouard has over 32 years of experience in the field of cancer care and blood disorder treatment. She completed extensive postgraduate training and certification in Medical Oncology and Hematology, equipping her with the expertise necessary to manage complex cases involving systemic therapies, targeted treatments, and supportive care. Her dedication to continuous learning and professional development underscores her commitment to delivering state-of-the-art care to her patients in Montréal.
Dr. Girouard's clinical philosophy centers on multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatment approaches, and a patient-centered focus that respects the values and preferences of each individual. She is dedicated to supporting her patients and their families through every step of their journey, providing clear communication and compassionate care. Fluent in French, she ensures accessible communication for her diverse patient population and strives to advance cancer and blood disorder treatment through ongoing research and quality improvement initiatives.
Dr. Caroline Girouard has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.
- Brain & Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumors (Primary & Metastatic - Medical Oncology aspects): Malignant tumors of the brain and spinal cord, where medical oncologists may manage chemotherapy or targeted therapies as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Lung Cancer (Non-Small Cell & Small Cell): Cancers originating in the lungs, treated with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and/or radiation based on type and stage.
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells.
- Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
- 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.
- Vitamin B12 & Folate Deficiency Anemias: Anemias resulting from a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, essential for red blood cell formation.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia: A common type of anemia caused by insufficient iron, leading to reduced red blood cell production and oxygen-carrying capacity.
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. Caroline Girouard or your referring physician.
- Therapeutic Apheresis Consultation (e.g., for TTP, plasma exchange indications): Consultation and coordination for procedures that separate components of blood for therapeutic purposes.
- Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, & Metastatic/Palliative Systemic Therapy: Developing treatment plans given before (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) primary local treatment (like surgery or radiation) to improve outcomes, or for managing advanced/metastatic cancer to control disease and improve quality of life.
- Bone Marrow Aspiration & Biopsy (Performance or Interpretation): Performing or interpreting samples from bone marrow aspirations and biopsies to diagnose blood disorders and cancers.
- Integration with Palliative & Supportive Oncology Services: Collaborative care focusing on optimal symptom management, pain control, and psychosocial support throughout the cancer journey.
- Cancer Survivorship Care & Long-Term Follow-Up: Developing individualized follow-up care plans for cancer survivors, focusing on surveillance for recurrence, management of late effects of treatment, and promoting wellness.
- 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.
- Interpretation of Special Hematologic Tests (e.g., Flow Cytometry, Cytogenetics, Molecular Studies): Analyzing results from advanced laboratory tests crucial for diagnosing and classifying hematologic conditions.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Medical Oncology and Hematology (Cancer and Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Girouard provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Girouard 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 Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.
Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal is situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Cartierville North in Montréal, QC. The hospital provides access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities, ensuring comprehensive cancer and blood disorder care. The location is conveniently accessible via public transit, with nearby Société de transport de Montréal (STM) services including Métro and Bus routes. The hospital is fully wheelchair accessible, and paid parking options are available nearby. The site is close to landmarks such as the Casino de Montréal and Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, making it easy for patients to reach their appointments comfortably and efficiently.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Girouard, an Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- 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 Medical Oncologist and Hematologist such as Dr. Girouard are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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 Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ), Dr. Girouard'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. Girouard, an Medical Oncologist and Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Medical Oncologist and Hematologist like Dr. Girouard 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.
- Does a Hematologist only treat blood cancers?
- No, Hematologists treat a wide range of blood disorders, not just cancers. This includes benign (non-cancerous) conditions such as various types of anemia (e.g., iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia), bleeding disorders (like hemophilia or von Willebrand disease), clotting disorders (thrombophilia, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism), and issues with white blood cells (like neutropenia) or platelets (like ITP). Dr. Girouard, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.
- Does Dr. Girouard participate in or offer access to clinical trials?
- Many oncologists and hematologists are involved in clinical research to advance cancer treatment and care for blood disorders, as participation in clinical trials can offer access to new and investigational treatments. Dr. Girouard is actively involved in clinical trials and may discuss relevant trial options with you if you are eligible and it is appropriate for your condition. You can ask Dr. Girouard if there are any suitable clinical trials available for your condition, either at her institution or through collaborative research networks. She can provide information or refer you for consideration.
- What are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Girouard 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. Girouard 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 does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Girouard specialize in?
- An Oncologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This can include Medical Oncologists who use systemic treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, Radiation Oncologists who use radiation therapy, and Surgical Oncologists who perform surgery to remove tumors. A Hematologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the blood, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph glands; this includes benign conditions like anemia and bleeding disorders, as well as malignant conditions (blood cancers) like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Dr. Girouard has expertise in both Medical Oncology and Hematology, providing comprehensive care for various cancers and blood conditions.
- How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Girouard?
- Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Girouard, 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. Girouard works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.
- 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. Girouard can explain if targeted therapy is an option for your cancer.
Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal
5400 boul Gouin O
Montréal, QC H4J 1C5
Phone: (514) 338-2150 | Fax: (514) 338-2631
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Girouard is a licensed Medical Oncologist and Hematologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. 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 Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=92269