About
Dr. Ernst Rudolf Christian Fibich, a Medical Oncologist, specializes in using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted agents to treat a wide range of cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Victoria, BC, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive adult cancer care. His practice centers on the use of cutting-edge systemic therapies for adult solid tumors, aiming to deliver personalized and hopeful treatment options. The facility where he practices is equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities, ensuring access to the latest medical innovations. Patients with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders can expect a patient-centered approach focused on hope, support, and evidence-based care.
Dr. Fibich graduated with a medical degree from Medizinische Hochschule Hannover in Germany in 1993. He has completed extensive post-graduate training in Medical Oncology, specializing in cancer treatment with systemic therapies. He holds certifications including recognition by the College Registration Committee and has completed the Practice Eligibility Route for the Subspecialty Examination Affiliate Program, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining high standards of clinical expertise and ongoing professional development.
His clinical philosophy emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatment strategies, and compassionate support for patients and their families. Dedicated to advancing cancer care in Victoria, Dr. Fibich speaks English, French, Frisian, and German, ensuring effective communication and personalized care for diverse patient populations. He is committed to improving outcomes and quality of life for his patients through a holistic and hopeful approach to cancer treatment.
Dr. Ernst Fibich has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- Breast Cancer (Early Stage, Locally Advanced, Metastatic): Malignant tumors developing in the cells of the breast, managed with various therapies including hormonal, chemo, targeted agents, and immunotherapy.
- Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.
- Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): A diverse group of tumors that arise from cells of the endocrine (hormonal) and nervous systems, treated with various systemic therapies.
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. Ernst Fibich or your referring physician.
- Management of Treatment-Related Side Effects & Toxicities: Proactive and reactive strategies to manage side effects of cancer therapies, including nausea, fatigue, myelosuppression, and neuropathy.
- Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, & Metastatic/Palliative Systemic Therapy: Developing treatment plans given before (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) primary local treatment (like surgery or radiation) to improve outcomes, or for managing advanced/metastatic cancer to control disease and improve quality oflife.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
- 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.
- Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
- Cancer Survivorship Care & Long-Term Follow-Up: Developing individualized follow-up care plans for cancer survivors, focusing on surveillance for recurrence, management of late effects of treatment, and promoting wellness.
- 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).
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Fibich provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Fibich 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. Fibich practices at a specialized cancer centre located within a hospital department in the Fairfield East, Oaklands neighborhood of Victoria. The facility is conveniently situated near the Float Plane Terminals and accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The location is wheelchair accessible, and paid parking options are close by, ensuring ease of access for all patients. The practice offers a welcoming environment with modern amenities designed to support comprehensive adult cancer care, including advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities. Patients can expect a supportive setting that values accessibility and patient comfort while delivering expert oncology services.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Fibich, an Medical 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 Medical Oncologist such as Dr. Fibich 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. Fibich'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. Fibich, an Medical Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Medical Oncologist like Dr. Fibich 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 does cancer or blood disorder treatment differ for children compared to adults?
- Treatment for children with cancer or blood disorders is highly specialized and managed by Pediatric Hematologists/Oncologists. They use protocols tailored to children, considering long-term effects on growth and development. Children’s bodies react differently to treatments, and the types of cancers and blood disorders are often distinct from adult conditions. Care is family-centered, involving parents and caregivers closely in decision-making and support.
- What does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Fibich 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. Fibich has expertise in Medical Oncology, focusing on systemic treatments for solid tumors, and can provide comprehensive care for various cancers and blood disorders.
- What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Fibich 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. Fibich 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.
- 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. Fibich, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.
- What kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Fibich?
- 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. Fibich and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect you with these valuable resources.
2410 Lee Ave, BC Cancer Agency - Victoria Centre Centre
Victoria, BC V8R 6V5
Phone: (250) 519-5500
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Fibich is a licensed Medical 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/340106/Fibich%2CErnst