Dr. D. Bruce C. Ritchie – Oncologist / Hematologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. D. Bruce C. Ritchie 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 a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Edmonton, AB, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive cancer care. His practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Ritchie offers a broad spectrum of management strategies for a wide range of cancers and complex hematologic conditions, focusing on personalized and evidence-based treatment approaches. He primarily serves adult patients with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders, ensuring access to advanced diagnostic tools and therapeutic options.

He completed his medical education with an MD (Doctor of Medicine) from the University of Alberta in 1978, and has undergone extensive post-graduate training in Medical Oncology and Hematology (Cancer and Blood Disorders). His certification and ongoing professional development emphasize his commitment to maintaining excellence in his field, enabling him to stay current with the latest advancements in cancer and blood disorder treatments.

Dr. Ritchie’s clinical philosophy centers on multidisciplinary care, integrating the latest evidence-based therapies with compassionate patient support. He is dedicated to working closely with patients and their families in Edmonton, providing clear communication and tailored treatment plans. Fluent in English, he strives to ensure that every patient feels well-informed and supported throughout their healthcare journey.

Dr. D. Ritchie 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.
• Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): A diverse group of tumors that arise from cells of the endocrine (hormonal) and nervous systems, treated with various systemic therapies.
• Sarcomas (Bone & Soft Tissue - Systemic Therapy): Rare cancers arising from connective tissues, where medical oncologists administer chemotherapy or targeted therapies for advanced or metastatic disease.

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells.
• Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• Vitamin B12 & Folate Deficiency Anemias: Anemias resulting from a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, essential for red blood cell formation.
• Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.
• 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. D. Ritchie or your referring physician.

• Treatment of Various Solid Tumors: Specialized care for a wide range of cancers such as breast, lung (NSCLC, SCLC), colorectal, prostate, melanoma, ovarian, uterine, cervical, bladder, kidney, pancreatic, stomach, esophageal, head & neck (non-surgical aspects), brain tumors (non-surgical aspects), and sarcomas.
• Integration with Palliative & Supportive Oncology Services: Collaborative care focusing on optimal symptom management, pain control, and psychosocial support throughout the cancer journey.
• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
• Autologous & Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant Consultation, Coordination & Post-Transplant Care (as part of a transplant team or referral network): Evaluating eligibility for, coordinating referrals to, and providing follow-up care for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation for hematologic malignancies.
• Peripheral Blood Smear Review & Advanced Cytomorphology: Expert microscopic examination of blood cells to identify abnormalities and aid in diagnosis.
• Comprehensive Diagnosis & Management of Anemias: Investigating and treating various types of anemia, such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12/folate deficiency, hemolytic anemias (e.g., autoimmune hemolytic anemia), sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and aplastic anemia.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.

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. Ritchie provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Ritchie 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. Ritchie's practice is located within a specialized cancer centre in the heart of Edmonton, AB, in the S Central area near the University of Alberta, Garneau, Windsor Park neighbourhood. The facility is situated close to the Botanical Gardens (Pyramids) and is easily accessible via Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes. The center is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby for those arriving by car, making it accessible for patients from across the region seeking expert cancer and blood disorder care.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Ritchie, an Medical Oncologist and 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 Medical Oncologist and Hematologist such as Dr. Ritchie 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. Ritchie'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. Ritchie, 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. Ritchie 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 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. Ritchie may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.

What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Ritchie 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. Ritchie 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.

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

Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Ritchie, 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. Ritchie works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.

What does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Ritchie 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. Ritchie has expertise in both Medical Oncology and Hematology, providing comprehensive care for various cancers and blood conditions.

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. Ritchie can explain if targeted therapy is an option for your cancer.

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. Ritchie, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.

11350-83 Ave, 4-112
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7

Phone: (780) 492-3550 | Fax: (780) 492-8767

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Ritchie is a licensed Medical Oncologist and 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=d109b187-2fa4-4147-9e8e-9266b2903d85&i=1230