About
Dr. Dong Hwan Kim is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemias and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre or hospital department in Toronto, ON, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive blood disorder care. His practice adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Dr. Kim's role encompasses both diagnostic excellence and therapeutic interventions, ensuring that adult patients with suspected or diagnosed hematologic conditions receive personalized, hopeful, and effective care, leveraging advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from Kyungpook National University in South Korea in 1995. Having practiced as a Hematologist for over 13 years since 2011, Dr. Kim has gained extensive experience in the field of blood disorders. He is certified as a CPSO Recognized Specialist in Hematology (Blood Disorders), reflecting his specialized training and commitment to maintaining high standards of practice in Ontario.
Dr. Kim is dedicated to providing patient-centered care through a multidisciplinary approach, combining evidence-based treatments with compassionate support. He strives to work collaboratively with patients and their families to develop tailored treatment plans that optimize outcomes and quality of life. Fluent in both English and Korean, Dr. Kim is committed to clear communication and culturally sensitive care, ensuring that all patients feel supported and informed throughout their treatment journey.
Dr. Dong Kim has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
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.
- Hemolytic Anemia (e.g., Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia - AIHA): A disorder in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can produce them.
- Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): An autoimmune disorder characterized by a low number of platelets, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
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.
- Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
- 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. Dong Kim or your referring physician.
- 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).
- Therapeutic Apheresis Consultation (e.g., for TTP, plasma exchange indications): Consultation and coordination for procedures that separate components of blood for therapeutic purposes.
- Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
- Management of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): Diagnosis and treatment of bone marrow failure disorders, including supportive care, growth factors, and disease-modifying therapies.
- 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).
- Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
- Diagnosis & Multimodal Management of Leukemias (AML, ALL, CLL, CML, Hairy Cell): Comprehensive care for various types of leukemia, including diagnostic workup (bone marrow interpretation, cytogenetics, molecular testing), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and coordination for stem cell transplant where indicated.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Kim 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 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.
Dr. Kim practices at a specialized cancer centre located in the vibrant Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto. The facility is conveniently situated near landmarks such as the Toronto Reference Library and Toronto Eaton Centre, making it easily accessible for patients. Public transit options including TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus) are readily available, ensuring seamless access to appointments. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available onsite for patients and visitors seeking convenient transportation options. The environment is designed to support a comfortable and welcoming experience for all patients seeking expert blood disorder care in Toronto.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Kim, an Hematologist, 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 Hematologist such as Dr. Kim 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. Kim'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, an Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Kim 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. Kim 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. He 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. Kim 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 Dr. Kim 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 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. Kim if there are any suitable clinical trials available for your condition, either at Dr. Kim's institution or through collaborative research networks. He can provide information or refer you for consideration.
- How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Kim?
- Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Kim, 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. Kim works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.
- What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Kim 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 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.
610 University Avenue
Toronto, ON M5G 2M9
Phone: (416) 946-6541 | Fax: (416) 946-4563
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Kim is a licensed Hematologist 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/Kim-Dong-Hwan/0223322-83716