Dr. Hao Wei Sun – Oncologist / Hematologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Hao Wei Sun is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemia and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Edmonton, AB, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. Her practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Sun addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic conditions, offering both expert diagnosis and tailored therapeutic interventions. Her approach prioritizes compassionate, evidence-based care for adults with suspected or diagnosed blood disorders or hematologic malignancies, utilizing advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities to optimize patient outcomes.

She completed her medical education with an MD (Doctor of Medicine) from the University of Toronto in 2009, followed by extensive postgraduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Dr. Sun has achieved key certifications in her specialty, ensuring her expertise aligns with the highest standards of practice in Canada. Her comprehensive training allows her to provide precise diagnoses and innovative treatments for complex hematologic conditions, integrating the latest advances in laboratory testing and clinical management.

Dr. Sun is dedicated to delivering multidisciplinary, patient-centered care that combines evidence-based treatments with compassionate support. She values ongoing research and continuous learning to improve hematology care in Edmonton. Fluent in English and Mandarin, she strives to communicate effectively with diverse patient populations, ensuring clarity and comfort throughout the care process. Her clinical philosophy emphasizes collaboration with patients and their families, respecting individual preferences, and supporting them through every stage of diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Hao Sun 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.
• 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.
• 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

• Von Willebrand Disease & Other Inherited Bleeding Disorders: Genetic conditions that impair the blood's ability to clot effectively, causing prolonged or excessive bleeding.
• Aplastic Anemia & Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes: Rare but serious conditions where the bone marrow doesn't produce enough new blood cells.
• Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.

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. Hao Sun 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.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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.
• Management of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): Diagnosis and treatment of bone marrow failure disorders, including supportive care, growth factors, and disease-modifying 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.
• Therapeutic Apheresis Consultation (e.g., for TTP, plasma exchange indications): Consultation and coordination for procedures that separate components of blood for therapeutic purposes.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Sun provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Sun 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.

Dr. Sun practices within a specialized cancer centre located in the vibrant S Central neighborhood of Edmonton, near the University of Alberta, in the Garneau, Windsor Park area. The facility is easily accessible from major transit routes served by Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus services. The hospital or clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the site, providing convenient options for those arriving by car. The practice is situated close to major community landmarks and public transit stops, making it straightforward for patients in Edmonton and surrounding communities to access comprehensive hematology care in a welcoming environment.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Sun, an Hematologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

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. Sun are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), Dr. Sun'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. Sun, an Hematologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Sun 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 does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Sun 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. Sun has expertise in hematology, focusing on blood disorders, including both benign and malignant conditions, and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care.

What kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Sun?

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. Sun and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect patients with these valuable resources.

How will treatment decisions be made for my condition by Dr. Sun?

Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and made collaboratively. Dr. Sun 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) to ensure a comprehensive approach. You will be an active participant in this decision-making process.

What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Sun 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. Sun 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.

8440 112 St NW
Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7

Phone: (780) 407-1584 | Fax: (780) 407-2680

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Sun is a licensed Hematologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=0b1e84b3-10cc-44ca-82d4-1f584dc7442d&i=1405