About
Dr. Isabelle Gingras is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from common conditions like anemia and clotting issues to complex blood cancers. Practicing at Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal in Montréal, QC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. Her practice is rooted in adhering to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that each patient receives safe, effective, and personalized treatment. She addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions to adults with suspected or diagnosed blood conditions or cancer, with access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options.
Dr. Gingras graduated with a Medical Degree in 2013 and has been practicing as a Hematologist for over 11 years. She completed extensive post-graduate medical training and certification in Hematology (Blood Disorders), gaining in-depth knowledge and skills necessary for specialized blood disorder management. Her commitment to continuous education ensures she stays current with the latest advancements in hematology and cancer care.
Driven by a philosophy of multidisciplinary, evidence-based care, Dr. Gingras is dedicated to supporting her patients and their families throughout their treatment journey. She values clear communication, compassionate support, and integrating the latest research into her practice. Fluent in French, she provides patient-centered care in a language that fosters trust and understanding. Her goal is to improve health outcomes and quality of life for her patients in Montréal through personalized, comprehensive hematology services.
Dr. Isabelle Gingras 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.
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) / Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): A type of cancer that starts from white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the bone marrow, typically slow-growing.
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood cells.
Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed
- Aplastic Anemia & Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes: Rare but serious conditions where the bone marrow doesn't produce enough new blood cells.
- Hemolytic Anemia (e.g., Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia - AIHA): A disorder in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the bone marrow can produce them.
- 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. Isabelle Gingras or your referring physician.
- Diagnosis & Management of Multiple Myeloma, Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia & Other Plasma Cell Dyscrasias: Specialized care for cancers arising from plasma cells, utilizing novel agents, chemotherapy, and supportive care, including stem cell transplant coordination.
- Neutropenia & Other White Blood Cell Disorders Evaluation: Investigating and managing low or abnormal white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infections.
- Blood Product Transfusion Support & Management of Transfusion Reactions: Overseeing transfusions of red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and managing any adverse reactions.
- 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).
- Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
- Management of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): Diagnosis and treatment of bone marrow failure disorders, including supportive care, growth factors, and disease-modifying therapies.
- 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. Gingras provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Gingras 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 Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.
Dr. Gingras practices at the Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal, situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Cartierville North in Montréal, QC. The hospital is easily accessible via public transit, including the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) with nearby metro and bus stops. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. For those arriving by car, metered street parking is available nearby. The hospital's location offers convenient access for residents of Montréal and surrounding areas seeking expert hematology care in a comfortable and accessible environment.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Gingras, an Hematologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?
- 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. Gingras are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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 Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ), Dr. Gingras'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. Gingras, an Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Gingras 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 palliative care, and when might Dr. Gingras 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. Gingras 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 Dr. Gingras participate in or offer access to clinical trials?
- Many oncologists and hematologists are involved in clinical research to advance cancer treatment and care for blood disorders, as participation in clinical trials can offer access to new and investigational treatments. Dr. Gingras is actively involved in clinical trials and may discuss relevant trial options with you if you are eligible and it is appropriate for your condition. You can ask her if there are any suitable clinical trials available at her institution or through research networks. She can provide information or refer you for consideration.
- What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Gingras?
- After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Gingras 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 long-term side effects from treatment, healthy lifestyle recommendations, and coordination with your family doctor for ongoing health care. The goal is to support your long-term health and well-being.
- What does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Gingras specialize in?
- An Oncologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, including Medical Oncology focusing on systemic treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, Radiation Oncology using radiation therapy, and Surgical Oncology performing tumor removal surgeries. A Hematologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the blood, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph glands, such as anemia, bleeding disorders, leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Dr. Gingras has expertise in hematology, providing comprehensive care for a wide range of blood conditions and blood cancers, ensuring personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.
Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal
5400 boul Gouin O
Montréal, QC H4J 1C5
Phone: (514) 338-2222
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Gingras is a licensed Hematologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. 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 Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=13098