Dr. Helen Jane Mackay – Oncologist / Hematologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Helen Jane Mackay, a Medical Oncologist, specializes in using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted agents to treat a wide range of cancers. Practicing at the Markham Stouffville Hospital in Toronto, ON, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive cancer care. Her practice centers on the use of cutting-edge systemic therapies for adult solid tumors, ensuring patients receive the most advanced treatment options available. The care she offers is tailored to adults with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders, with access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic facilities integral to her approach.

Dr. Mackay graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Edinburgh in 1990 (United Kingdom). She has been practicing as a Medical Oncologist since 2005, bringing over 19 years of experience in cancer treatment. She is certified as a CPSO Recognized Specialist in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies), adhering to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO). Her extensive training and certification ensure she provides expert care aligned with current clinical guidelines and best practices.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatment, and holistic patient support. Dr. Mackay is dedicated to delivering compassionate care to her patients in Toronto, fostering open communication and shared decision-making. She speaks English fluently and is committed to advancing patient well-being through personalized treatment plans, ongoing research, and continuous professional development.

Dr. Helen Mackay has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• Genitourinary Cancers (Bladder, Kidney, Testicular, Penile): Cancers affecting the urinary system (kidneys, bladder) or male reproductive organs (testes, penis), managed with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted agents.
• Melanoma & Advanced Skin Cancers: Aggressive forms of skin cancer, where oncologists manage systemic treatments like immunotherapy or targeted therapy for advanced or metastatic disease.
• 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.

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. Helen Mackay or your referring physician.

• Comprehensive Oncologic & Hematologic Consultation: In-depth evaluation of medical history, review of diagnostic imaging and pathology, cancer staging (if applicable), and development of personalized treatment plans for various cancers and blood disorders.
• Management of Treatment-Related Side Effects & Toxicities: Proactive and reactive strategies to manage side effects of cancer therapies, including nausea, fatigue, myelosuppression, and neuropathy.
• 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).
• 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.
• Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapies Administration & Management: Expert administration and ongoing management of treatments including intravenous and oral chemotherapy, immunotherapy (e.g., checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy coordination), targeted molecular therapy, and hormone therapy.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• 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 Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Mackay provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Mackay 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.

Dr. Mackay practices at the Markham Stouffville Hospital, located in the Lawrence Park neighborhood of Toronto. The hospital is conveniently situated near landmarks such as Chinatown Centre and the Art Gallery of Ontario. It is easily accessible via the TTC (Subway, Streetcar, Bus), with multiple public transit options. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusive access for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby, providing additional convenience for those arriving by car.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Mackay, an Medical 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 Medical Oncologist such as Dr. Mackay 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. Mackay'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. Mackay, an Medical Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Medical Oncologist like Dr. Mackay 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 kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Mackay?

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. Mackay and the healthcare team at hospitals or cancer centres in Toronto can connect you with these valuable resources.

What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Mackay?

After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Mackay will develop a survivorship care plan with you. This plan typically includes a schedule for follow-up appointments and tests to monitor for any signs of recurrence, management of any long-term side effects from treatment, recommendations for healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise), and coordination with your family doctor for ongoing general health care. The goal is to support your long-term health and well-being.

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

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

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

Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and made collaboratively. Dr. Mackay 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.

Markham Stouffville Hospital
2075 Bayview Avenue
Toronto, ON M4N 3M5

Phone: (416) 480-5145 | Fax: (416) 480-6002

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Mackay is a licensed Medical 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/Mackay-Helen-Jane/0198714-78783