Dr. Erica Ann Peterson – Oncologist / Hematologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Erica Ann Peterson 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 within a hospital department in Vancouver, BC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to delivering comprehensive patient care. She adheres to the high standards and ethical guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Peterson's role encompasses both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions, ensuring that adult patients with suspected or diagnosed hematologic conditions receive personalized, hopeful, and patient-centered treatment plans that emphasize quality of life and advanced medical options.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 2007 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Dr. Peterson holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining excellence in her field. Her advanced training equips her with the skills necessary for cutting-edge diagnostics and innovative treatment approaches in blood disorder management.

Dedicated to providing multidisciplinary, evidence-based care, Dr. Peterson is committed to supporting her patients and their families throughout their treatment journey. She promotes a compassionate, collaborative approach in her practice, advocating for patient education and empowerment. Fluent in English and French, she strives to make her patients feel understood and supported in Vancouver’s diverse community, integrating the latest research and clinical guidelines into her care philosophy.

Dr. Erica Peterson has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• 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.
• 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.

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• Von Willebrand Disease & Other Inherited Bleeding Disorders: Genetic conditions that impair the blood's ability to clot effectively, causing prolonged or excessive bleeding.
• 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.
• 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. Erica Peterson or your referring physician.

• Bone Marrow Aspiration & Biopsy (Performance or Interpretation): Performing or interpreting samples from bone marrow aspirations and biopsies to diagnose blood disorders and cancers.
• 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).
• 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.
• Management of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia, Myelofibrosis): Treatment strategies to control blood counts, manage symptoms, and prevent complications associated with these chronic bone marrow disorders.
• Peripheral Blood Smear Review & Advanced Cytomorphology: Expert microscopic examination of blood cells to identify abnormalities and aid in diagnosis.
• Interpretation of Special Hematologic Tests (e.g., Flow Cytometry, Cytogenetics, Molecular Studies): Analyzing results from advanced laboratory tests crucial for diagnosing and classifying hematologic conditions.
• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Peterson provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Peterson 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. Peterson practices at a specialized cancer centre located within a hospital department in Vancouver's vibrant Fairview neighborhood. The facility is situated close to the Museum of Vancouver and the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre (Vanier Park), with easy access to public transit options, including TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), bus services, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront Station). The centre is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and mobility for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently available nearby, making it accessible for patients from across Vancouver and surrounding regions.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Peterson, 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. Peterson 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. Peterson'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. Peterson, an Hematologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Peterson 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. Peterson 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. She 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. Peterson will explain the proposed treatment plan, including goals, benefits, potential side effects, duration, and what to expect moving forward. Further tests may be ordered.

What is Radiation Oncology and when is it used?

Radiation Oncology is a medical specialty that uses high-energy radiation (like X-rays, gamma rays, or charged particles) to damage or destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. It can be used as a primary treatment, before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or in combination with chemotherapy. It can also be used for palliative care to relieve symptoms. Dr. Peterson specializes in planning and delivering radiation therapy using techniques like EBRT, IMRT, SBRT, or brachytherapy. If you are being considered for radiation therapy, she will coordinate with radiation oncologists to ensure optimal treatment planning.

Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Peterson 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. Peterson might recommend this test to diagnose or monitor various blood disorders, including leukemias, lymphomas, myeloma, anemias, or infections. The procedure is usually performed 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.

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. Peterson may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.

10th Floor, Diamond Health Center, Division of Hematology 2775 Laurel St
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Phone: (604) 875-4863 | Fax: (604) 675-3883

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Peterson 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/332170/Peterson%2CErica