Dr. Jessica Leah Conway – Oncologist / Hematologist | Barrie, ON

Dr. Jessica Leah Conway, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at The Hospital for Sick Children in Barrie, ON, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing compassionate and precise cancer care. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that patients receive high-quality, ethical medical services. Dr. Conway's expertise includes the meticulous planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a broad spectrum of cancer types, with a focus on personalized treatment approaches that prioritize patient safety and outcomes.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the Northern Ontario School of Medicine in 2012 in Canada and has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist for over 7 years, since 2017. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation), demonstrating her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of clinical practice and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Conway's clinical philosophy centers on delivering multidisciplinary, evidence-based care while supporting her patients and their families throughout their treatment journey. She is dedicated to advancing research in radiation oncology and providing compassionate, patient-centered care in Barrie. She speaks English fluently, ensuring clear communication and understanding with her patients and colleagues.

Dr. Jessica Conway has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology

• Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumors (Brain & Spine): Employing precise radiation techniques to treat benign and malignant tumors of the brain and spinal cord.
• Thoracic Cancers (e.g., Lung Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Mesothelioma): Using radiation therapy to treat cancers within the chest cavity, often combined with other modalities.
• Sarcomas (Bone & Soft Tissue - Radiation Aspects): Role of radiation therapy in the multidisciplinary management of sarcomas, often used before or after surgery.

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood cells.
• Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
• Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia, Myelofibrosis): A group of chronic blood cancers where the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets.

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.
• Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.
• 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. Jessica Conway 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.
• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• 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.
• Total Body Irradiation (TBI) - Component of Stem Cell Transplant Regimens: Radiation therapy delivered to the entire body, often used as part of the conditioning regimen before a bone marrow or stem cell transplant.
• 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).

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

The Hospital for Sick Children in Barrie is situated in the vibrant Downtown Barrie, East Bayfield neighborhood. The practice is conveniently located near landmarks such as North Barrie Crossing and the Commercial Corridor, making it accessible for patients from various parts of the region. Public transit options, including Barrie Transit, provide easy access to the facility. The hospital adheres to accessibility standards, with the facility being wheelchair accessible. Patients can find metered street parking nearby, ensuring convenient access to appointments.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Conway, 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. Conway 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. Conway'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. Conway, an Radiation Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Conway 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.

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

How does cancer or blood disorder treatment differ for children compared to adults?

As a Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist, Dr. Conway specializes in these differences. Children's bodies react differently to treatments, and the types of cancers and blood disorders are often distinct from adult conditions. Treatment protocols are specifically designed for pediatric patients, considering their growth and development. Care is family-centered, involving parents and caregivers closely in decision-making and support.

The Hospital for Sick Children
201 Georgian Dr, Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Barrie, ON L4M 6M2

Phone: (705) 728-9802

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Conway 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/Conway-Jessica-Leah/0297158-103820