Dr. Catherine Doyle 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 CHU de Québec, Hôpital Enfant-Jésus in Québec, QC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centered care. Her practice adheres to the highest standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive safe, evidence-based treatment tailored to their individual needs. Dr. Doyle’s focus is on providing comprehensive management strategies for a broad range of cancers and complex hematologic conditions, emphasizing hope, early intervention, and multidisciplinary collaboration to optimize outcomes for her patients.
She graduated with a Medical Degree in 1992 and has been practicing as a Medical Oncologist and Hematologist for over 32 years. Dr. Doyle completed extensive postgraduate medical training and certification in Medical Oncology and Hematology, equipping her with a deep expertise in cancer care and blood disorder treatment. Her experience spans a wide spectrum of oncologic and hematologic conditions, positioning her as a trusted specialist in her field.
Dedicated to advancing patient care, Dr. Doyle believes in a multidisciplinary approach that combines the latest evidence-based treatments with compassionate support. She is committed to working closely with her patients and their families to navigate complex diagnoses, treatment options, and ongoing care. Fluent in French, she ensures clear communication to support her diverse patient population and foster a hopeful, collaborative environment in her practice.
Dr. Catherine Doyle has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- Head and Neck Cancers (Oral Cavity, Pharynx, Larynx - Medical Oncology aspects): Cancers arising in the head and neck region, where medical oncologists manage chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.
- Ovarian, Uterine (Endometrial), & Cervical Cancers (Gynecologic Oncology - Medical Aspects): Systemic treatment aspects for cancers of the female reproductive system, often in collaboration with gynecologic oncologists or surgeons.
Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed
- Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): An autoimmune disorder characterized by a low number of platelets, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
- Von Willebrand Disease & Other Inherited Bleeding Disorders: Genetic conditions that impair the blood's ability to clot effectively, causing prolonged or excessive bleeding.
- Vitamin B12 & Folate Deficiency Anemias: Anemias resulting from a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, essential for red blood cell formation.
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood 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.
- Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia, Myelofibrosis): A group of chronic blood cancers where the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets.
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. Catherine Doyle or your referring physician.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
- 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 Treatment-Related Side Effects & Toxicities: Proactive and reactive strategies to manage side effects of cancer therapies, including nausea, fatigue, myelosuppression, and neuropathy.
- 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.
- Peripheral Blood Smear Review & Advanced Cytomorphology: Expert microscopic examination of blood cells to identify abnormalities and aid in diagnosis.
- 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).
- Diagnosis & Treatment of Lymphomas (Hodgkin & Various Non-Hodgkin Subtypes): Tailored treatment strategies for cancers of the lymphatic system, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted agents, and radiotherapy coordination.
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. Doyle provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Doyle 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.
Dr. Doyle practices primarily at the CHU de Québec, Hôpital Enfant-Jésus, located in the areas near central Québec. The hospital is easily accessible via local public transit, making it convenient for patients from various parts of the city and surrounding regions. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available nearby, with metered street parking options for visitors. The hospital’s central location and supportive environment aim to facilitate a smooth and welcoming experience for patients seeking comprehensive cancer and blood disorder care.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Doyle, 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. Doyle 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. Doyle'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. Doyle, 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. Doyle 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 can I expect at my first appointment with an Oncologist/Hematologist?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Doyle will be comprehensive and may last an hour or more. It will involve a detailed review of your medical history, family history of cancer, current symptoms, medications, and any previous tests, imaging results (CT, MRI, PET scans), and biopsy reports related to your diagnosis. She will likely perform a thorough physical examination. The main goals are to confirm your diagnosis, discuss the type and stage of your condition (if applicable), and outline potential treatment options. This is a crucial time to ask questions, and you are encouraged to bring a family member or friend for support and to help take notes. Dr. Doyle will explain the proposed treatment plan, including goals, benefits, potential side effects, duration, and what to expect moving forward. Further tests may be ordered.
- 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. Doyle, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.
- Does Dr. Doyle 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. Doyle may discuss relevant trial options with you if you are eligible and it is appropriate for your condition. You can ask her about any available clinical trials at her institution or through research networks, and she can provide guidance or referrals for participation.
- 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. Doyle can explain if targeted therapy is an appropriate 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. Doyle 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.
CHU de Québec, Hôpital Enfant-Jésus
1401 18e Rue
Québec, QC G1J 1Z4
Phone: (418) 649-0252 | Fax: (418) 649-5553
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Doyle 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=92260