Description
About Dr. Conrad Bif Falkson
Dr. Conrad Bif Falkson, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at Port Arthur Clinic in Kingston, ON, he is a dedicated healthcare professional committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based cancer care. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality and ethical treatment for all patients. Dr. Falkson's expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, offering tailored treatment approaches to meet individual patient needs.
He earned his Medical Degree from the University of Pretoria School of Medicine in 1983 (South Africa) and has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist for over 19 years since 2005. Dr. Falkson is certified as a RCPSC Specialist in Radiation Oncology, specializing in cancer treatment with radiation. His extensive training and certification enable him to deliver advanced, safe, and effective care to adults with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders.
Dr. Falkson is dedicated to providing comprehensive, multidisciplinary care grounded in the latest evidence-based practices. He values patient-centered communication, working closely with patients and their families to develop personalized treatment plans. Fluent in both Afrikaans and English, he strives to ensure clear and compassionate dialogue with his diverse patient community in Kingston. His clinical philosophy emphasizes collaboration, ongoing research, and continuous improvement to optimize patient outcomes and quality of life.
Common Conditions Dr. Conrad Falkson Addresses
Dr. Conrad Falkson has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in the bone marrow that produces antibodies, leading to bone damage and other complications.
- 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.
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.
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumors (Brain & Spine): Employing precise radiation techniques to treat benign and malignant tumors of the brain and spinal cord.
- Gastrointestinal Cancers (e.g., Rectal, Anal, Pancreatic, Stomach): Role of radiation therapy in managing various cancers of the digestive system, often as part of combined modality treatment.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
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. Conrad Falkson or your referring physician.
Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation) Services Offered by Dr. Conrad Bif Falkson
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- Total Body Irradiation (TBI) - Component of Stem Cell Transplant Regimens: Radiation therapy delivered to the entire body, often used as part of the conditioning regimen before a bone marrow or stem cell transplant.
- 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.
- Palliative Radiation Therapy for Symptom Control: Using radiation to alleviate pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by cancer.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Falkson provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Falkson 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Port Arthur Clinic is situated in the heart of Kingston, ON, in the vibrant Downtown Kingston area known as Queen's University District and Sydenham Ward. The clinic is conveniently located near landmarks such as the Hotel Dieu Hospital Site and St. Mary's Cathedral, making it easily accessible for patients. Public transit options, including Kingston Transit, provide convenient routes to the facility. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Paid parking options are close by, ensuring ease of access for those arriving by car. The location offers a welcoming environment with modern amenities designed for patient comfort and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Falkson, an Radiation Oncologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- 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. Falkson are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), Dr. Falkson'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. Falkson, an Radiation Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Falkson 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.
- Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Falkson recommends it?
- A bone marrow biopsy and aspiration are procedures used to collect and examine bone marrow, the soft tissue inside your bones where blood cells are made. Dr. Falkson might recommend this test to diagnose or monitor various blood disorders, including leukemias, lymphomas, myeloma, anemias, or infections. The procedure is usually done on the back of the hip bone under local anesthesia. A needle is used to withdraw a small sample of liquid marrow (aspiration) and a small core of bone marrow tissue (biopsy). You may feel some pressure or brief pain.
- How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Falkson?
- Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Falkson, 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. Falkson works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.
- What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Falkson?
- After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Falkson 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 will treatment decisions be made for my condition by Dr. Falkson?
- Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and made collaboratively. Dr. Falkson will consider many factors, including the type and stage of your cancer or blood disorder, your overall health, genetic markers of the disease (if applicable), current treatment guidelines, and importantly, your personal preferences and values. Often, cases are discussed in multidisciplinary team meetings (tumor boards) with other specialists to ensure a comprehensive approach. You will be an active participant in this decision-making process.
Contact & Licensing Information
Port Arthur Clinic
25 King Street West
Kingston, ON K7L 5P9
Phone: (613) 544-2631 | Fax: (613) 548-1355
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Falkson is a licensed Radiation Oncologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. 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 Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Falkson-Conrad-Bif/0181038-76042