About
Dr. Elysha Anna VanderVeer 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 Surrey, BC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. Her practice is guided by the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). She addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions, tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. The goal is to deliver personalized, compassionate care for adults with suspected or diagnosed blood conditions, utilizing advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options to optimize outcomes.
Dr. VanderVeer graduated with her Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2017. She completed extensive post-graduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders), gaining specialized knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of complex blood conditions. She holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, affirming her expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards of practice in her field.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatment, and holistic patient support. Dr. VanderVeer is dedicated to providing thorough, patient-centered care and actively participating in ongoing research to advance hematology knowledge. She speaks English fluently and is committed to supporting her patients in Surrey through clear communication, compassionate care, and a focus on improving quality of life at every stage of treatment.
Dr. Elysha VanderVeer has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- 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.
- Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): A type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects white blood cells called lymphocytes, common in children but also occurs in adults.
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.
- Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.
- Von Willebrand Disease & Other Inherited Bleeding Disorders: Genetic conditions that impair the blood's ability to clot effectively, causing prolonged or excessive bleeding.
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. Elysha VanderVeer or your referring physician.
- 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.
- Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) & Other Platelet Disorders Management: Investigating and managing low platelet counts due to immune or other causes.
- Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
- Neutropenia & Other White Blood Cell Disorders Evaluation: Investigating and managing low or abnormal white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infections.
- 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.
- Blood Product Transfusion Support & Management of Transfusion Reactions: Overseeing transfusions of red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and managing any adverse reactions.
- Bone Marrow Aspiration & Biopsy (Performance or Interpretation): Performing or interpreting samples from bone marrow aspirations and biopsies to diagnose blood disorders and cancers.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. VanderVeer provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. VanderVeer 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. VanderVeer practices at a specialized cancer centre located in the West Newton, Strawberry Hill neighborhood of Surrey, BC. The facility is conveniently situated near Scott Road SkyTrain Station and Commercial Corridor, making it accessible via public transit, including TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). The centre is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient options for those visiting by car. The location offers state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities, dedicated to comprehensive blood disorder and cancer care for adult patients in the Surrey area.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. VanderVeer, an Hematologist, 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 Hematologist such as Dr. VanderVeer 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. VanderVeer'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. VanderVeer, an Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. VanderVeer 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 kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. VanderVeer?
- Supportive care is a crucial part of treatment, aiming to manage symptoms, reduce side effects, improve quality of life, and address emotional and practical needs. This can include effective pain and symptom management, nutritional support and counseling, psychological support (counseling, therapy), social work services for practical and emotional support, physiotherapy or occupational therapy, access to patient support groups, and spiritual care. Dr. VanderVeer and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect you with these valuable resources.
- 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. VanderVeer 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 are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. VanderVeer help manage them?
- Chemotherapy can cause various side effects, which differ depending on the specific drugs used, the dose, and individual patient factors. Common ones include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, changes in appetite, diarrhea or constipation, and increased risk of infection due to low blood counts. Dr. VanderVeer and the oncology nursing team will discuss potential side effects of your specific treatment plan in detail and will actively work to prevent and manage them with medications (e.g., anti-nausea drugs, growth factors to boost blood counts), supportive care advice (nutrition, hydration, rest), and regular monitoring. Open communication about any side effects you experience is very important for effective management.
- Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. VanderVeer 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. VanderVeer 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.
13750 96 Ave, BC Cancer - Surrey
Surrey, BC V3V 1Z2
Phone: (604) 587-4340 | Fax: (604) 587-4312
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. VanderVeer is a licensed Hematologist 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/343711/VanderVeer%2CElysha