Dr. Hanbo Chen – Oncologist / Hematologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Hanbo Chen, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at Quinte Healthcare Corporation in Toronto, ON, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive cancer care. His practice is aligned with the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, safe, and effective treatment options. Dr. Chen's expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, focusing on personalized treatment approaches that aim to maximize efficacy while minimizing side effects.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto in 2014 and has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist for over 5 years since 2019. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist in Radiation Oncology, demonstrating his specialized training and commitment to excellence in cancer treatment with radiation.

Dr. Chen is dedicated to providing patient-centered care through multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatment strategies, and ongoing support for patients and their families. He speaks English and Mandarin, ensuring clear and compassionate communication to meet diverse patient needs. His approach emphasizes advancing research and integrating the latest clinical guidelines to optimize outcomes for adults with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders.

Dr. Hanbo Chen has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells.
• Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.

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.
• 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.
• Head and Neck Cancers (Oral Cavity, Pharynx, Larynx - Medical Oncology aspects): Cancers arising in the head and neck region, where medical oncologists manage chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology

• Lymphomas & Hematologic Malignancies (Radiation Role): Utilizing radiation therapy in specific situations for Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin lymphomas, or for conditioning before stem cell transplant.
• 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.
• Palliative Radiation for Symptom Relief (e.g., Bone Metastases, Spinal Cord Compression): Using radiation therapy to alleviate pain, control bleeding, or relieve pressure caused by advanced cancer.

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. Hanbo Chen or your referring physician.

• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
• 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).
• Palliative Radiation Therapy for Symptom Control: Using radiation to alleviate pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by cancer.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Chen provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Chen 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.

Practicing at Quinte Healthcare Corporation in Toronto’s Lawrence Park neighborhood, Dr. Hanbo Chen’s practice is situated within a well-equipped healthcare facility that offers comprehensive cancer care services. The location is conveniently accessible via public transit, including TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), and is within close proximity to the Financial District Core. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are close by, providing additional convenience for those arriving by private vehicle. The practice’s setting emphasizes patient comfort, accessibility, and integrated care within Toronto’s vibrant medical community.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Chen, an Radiation Oncologist, 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 Radiation Oncologist such as Dr. Chen 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. Chen'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. Chen, an Radiation Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Chen 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 is targeted therapy in cancer treatment?

Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific types of cancer cells with less harm to normal cells. These therapies work by targeting specific genes or proteins found in cancer cells or cells related to cancer growth, like blood vessel cells. Genetic testing of the tumor is often done to see if a targeted therapy is likely to be effective. Dr. Chen can explain if targeted therapy is an option for your cancer.

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. Chen, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.

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

Quinte Healthcare Corporation
2075 Bayview Ave, Belleville General Hospital
Toronto, ON M4N 3M5

Phone: (416) 480-4974 | Fax: (416) 480-6002

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Chen is a licensed Radiation Oncologist 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/Chen-Hanbo/0295936-103617