Dr. Josée Hébert – Oncologist / Hematologist | Montréal, QC

Dr. Josée Hébert is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemias and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont in Montréal, QC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and evidence-based treatment. Dr. Hébert addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions to adult patients with suspected or diagnosed blood conditions, supported by access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities.

She completed her medical degree in 1985 and has been practicing as a Hematologist for over 39 years. Her extensive post-graduate training and certification in Hematology (Blood Disorders) reflect her commitment to specialized, up-to-date care in this complex field. Throughout her career, she has gained a reputation for her dedication to patient-centered care, combining clinical expertise with compassionate support to help patients navigate their diagnosis and treatment options effectively.

Dr. Hébert’s clinical philosophy emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based medicine, and personalized care plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. She is dedicated to advancing research and integrating the latest therapeutic innovations to improve patient outcomes. Fluent in French, she provides care in her native language, ensuring clear communication and a supportive environment for her patients in Montréal and the surrounding regions.

Dr. Josée Hébert has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

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.
• Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
• 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.

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• Thrombophilia & Acquired Clotting Disorders (e.g., DVT/PE management, Antiphospholipid Syndrome): Conditions that increase the tendency to form blood clots, requiring anticoagulation therapy and management.
• Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.
• Vitamin B12 & Folate Deficiency Anemias: Anemias resulting from a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, essential for red blood cell formation.

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. Josée Hébert or your referring physician.

• Peripheral Blood Smear Review & Advanced Cytomorphology: Expert microscopic examination of blood cells to identify abnormalities and aid in diagnosis.
• Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
• Therapeutic Apheresis Consultation (e.g., for TTP, plasma exchange indications): Consultation and coordination for procedures that separate components of blood for therapeutic purposes.
• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
• Management of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): Diagnosis and treatment of bone marrow failure disorders, including supportive care, growth factors, and disease-modifying therapies.
• Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) & Other Platelet Disorders Management: Investigating and managing low platelet counts due to immune or other causes.
• Blood Product Transfusion Support & Management of Transfusion Reactions: Overseeing transfusions of red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and managing any adverse reactions.

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

Practicing at the Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Dr. Hébert's clinic is situated in the vibrant areas near central Montréal. The hospital is conveniently accessible from the Olympic Park Area and Hochelaga-Maisonneuve District, making it easy for patients from various parts of the city and surrounding regions to access. Public transit options are plentiful, with the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) providing services via Métro and Bus routes that stop nearby. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the hospital for those who prefer to drive, offering convenience for outpatient visits and treatments.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Hébert, 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. Hébert 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. Hébert'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. Hébert, an Hematologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Hébert 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. Hébert?

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

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

As a Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist, Dr. Hébert 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.

What is Radiation Oncology and when is it used?

Radiation Oncology is a medical specialty that uses high-energy radiation (like X-rays, gamma rays, or charged particles) to damage or destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. It can be used as a primary treatment, before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or in combination with chemotherapy. It can also be used for palliative care to relieve symptoms. Dr. Hébert specializes in planning and delivering radiation therapy using techniques like EBRT, IMRT, SBRT, or brachytherapy. Alternatively, Dr. Hébert may refer patients to a Radiation Oncologist if this treatment is indicated for their type of cancer as part of a multidisciplinary care plan.

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

Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont
5415 boul de l'Assomption
Montréal, QC H1T 2M4

Phone: (514) 252-3404 | Fax: (514) 254-5094

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Hébert 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=85351