About
Dr. Eric Tran, 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, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive cancer care. His practice adheres strictly to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Tran's expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, ensuring personalized and effective treatment strategies for his patients. He primarily serves adult patients with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders, offering access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities to optimize outcomes.
Dr. Tran graduated with a MD CM from McGill University in 2008 (Canada) and completed extensive post-graduate training in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). He holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining high standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.
With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, Dr. Tran is dedicated to multidisciplinary collaboration, ensuring that each patient receives holistic and tailored cancer care. He values clear communication and patient support throughout the treatment journey. Fluent in English and French, he strives to provide accessible and respectful care to diverse patient populations in Vancouver.
Dr. Eric Tran has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- 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.
- Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): A diverse group of tumors that arise from cells of the endocrine (hormonal) and nervous systems, treated with various 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.
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
- Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
- 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.
Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology
- Head & Neck Cancers (e.g., Laryngeal, Pharyngeal, Oral Cavity): Utilizing radiation therapy as a primary treatment, or in conjunction with surgery and/or chemotherapy for cancers of the head and neck region.
- 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.
- Breast Cancer (Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, Palliative Radiation): Applying radiation after lumpectomy or mastectomy to reduce recurrence risk, or to treat metastatic disease.
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. Eric Tran 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).
- Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
- 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.
- Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
- Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) / Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) / Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): Delivering highly focused, high-dose radiation to precisely targeted tumors or lesions in the brain or body, often in a few treatment sessions.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Tran provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Tran 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. Eric Tran practices at a specialized cancer centre located in Vancouver's vibrant Fairview neighborhood. The facility is situated within a hospital department known for its comprehensive cancer care services. It is conveniently accessible via public transit, including TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The centre is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing convenient options for those arriving by car. The practice's strategic location near the Downtown Entertainment District offers patients a welcoming environment and seamless access to their appointments.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Tran, 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. Tran 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. Tran'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. Tran, an Radiation Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Tran 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.
- How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Tran?
- Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Tran, 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. Tran works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.
- Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Tran 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. Tran 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 will treatment decisions be made for my condition by Dr. Tran?
- Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and made collaboratively. Dr. Tran 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.
- 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. Tran, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.
600 10 Ave W, Division of Radiation Oncology, BCCA - VCC Dept of Surgery
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E6
Phone: (604) 877-6000 | Fax: (604) 877-0505
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Tran 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/333246/Tran%2CEric