Dr. Charmaine Kim Sing – Oncologist / Hematologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Charmaine Kim Sing, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Vancouver, BC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive cancer care. Her practice location is situated in the vibrant Fairview neighborhood, easily accessible via public transit options including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as Bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is wheelchair accessible, and paid parking options are conveniently nearby, ensuring ease of access for all patients.

Dr. Kim Sing graduated with a Medical Bachelor (MB ChB) degree from the University of Cape Town in 1980, South Africa. She completed extensive post-graduate training in Radiation Oncology, specializing in cancer treatment with radiation. She holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, affirming her qualifications and adherence to high standards of medical practice in Canada.

Her clinical philosophy centers on delivering evidence-based, multidisciplinary care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Dr. Kim Sing is dedicated to supporting her patients and their families throughout their treatment journey in Vancouver. She communicates fluently in English and is committed to fostering a compassionate and respectful environment, advancing research and innovative treatment approaches within her specialty.

Dr. Charmaine Kim Sing has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology

• Sarcomas (Bone & Soft Tissue - Radiation Aspects): Role of radiation therapy in the multidisciplinary management of sarcomas, often used before or after surgery.
• Lymphomas & Hematologic Malignancies (Radiation Role): Utilizing radiation therapy in specific situations for Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin lymphomas, or for conditioning before stem cell transplant.
• Thoracic Cancers (e.g., Lung Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Mesothelioma): Using radiation therapy to treat cancers within the chest cavity, often combined with other modalities.

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• Gastrointestinal Cancers (Esophageal, Stomach, Pancreatic, Liver, Biliary): A group of cancers affecting the digestive system organs, each requiring specific diagnostic and multidisciplinary treatment approaches including systemic therapies.
• 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.
• 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.

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) / Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): A type of cancer that starts from white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the bone marrow, typically slow-growing.
• 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.
• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells.

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. Charmaine Kim Sing or your referring physician.

• External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) - 3D Conformal, IMRT, VMAT: Developing precise, individualized plans for delivering radiation using external machines (e.g., linear accelerators) with techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT).
• Genetic Counseling & Testing Referrals for Hereditary Cancer Syndromes: Assessment of family history and risk factors, and coordination of referrals for genetic counseling and testing for inherited predispositions to cancer (e.g., BRCA).
• Radiation Therapy Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive assessment to determine if radiation therapy is an appropriate treatment modality, followed by meticulous 3D/4D simulation and treatment planning.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): Preventative radiation treatment to the brain for certain cancers at high risk of brain metastases.
• Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): Utilizing advanced imaging during treatment delivery to precisely target tumors and adapt to changes, while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.
• Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation - LDR/HDR) for Specific Cancers: Planning and performing procedures where radioactive sources are placed directly into or near a tumor (e.g., for prostate, cervical, breast cancer).

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Kim Sing provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Kim Sing 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.

Dr. Charmaine Kim Sing practices at a specialized cancer centre located within a hospital department in Vancouver's Fairview neighbourhood. The facility is situated in an accessible area near the Mount Pleasant Neighbourhood, with convenient access via public transit including TransLink’s SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as local bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The centre is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of entry for patients with mobility needs. Paid parking options are available nearby, providing additional convenience for those traveling by car. The practice’s location offers patients easy access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities, supporting comprehensive cancer care.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Kim Sing, an Radiation Oncologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

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 Radiation Oncologist such as Dr. Kim Sing are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP), Dr. Kim Sing'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. Kim Sing, an Radiation Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Kim Sing 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 Dr. Kim Sing 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. Kim Sing may discuss relevant trial options with you if you are eligible and it is appropriate for your condition. You can ask her about available clinical trials at her institution or through collaborative research networks. She can provide information or refer you for consideration.

What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Kim Sing discuss it?

Palliative care is specialized medical care focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, like cancer or advanced blood disorders. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family. It can be provided at any stage of illness, alongside curative treatments, not just at the end of life. Dr. Kim Sing may discuss palliative care if you are experiencing significant symptoms, to help manage pain, fatigue, nausea, anxiety, or other issues, and to provide an extra layer of support.

What is immunotherapy and how does it work for cancer?

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that helps your own immune system fight cancer. It works by boosting or changing how the immune system works so it can find and attack cancer cells more effectively. There are different types of immunotherapy, including checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, and cancer vaccines. Dr. Kim Sing may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.

600 10 Ave W, BC Cancer Agency, Div. Of Radiation Oncology
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E6

Phone: (604) 877-6000 | Fax: (604) 708-2005

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Kim Sing is a licensed Radiation Oncologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/353007/Kim%20Sing%2CCharmaine