Dr. Justin Michael Owen – Oncologist / Hematologist | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Justin Michael Owen, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Kelowna, BC, he is dedicated to providing comprehensive cancer care. His practice is situated in the Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighbourhood, offering patients access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities. The facility is wheelchair accessible, with metered street parking available nearby. The location is easily accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), and is conveniently situated near landmarks such as Rutland Centennial Park and Rutland Town Centre.

Dr. Owen graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 2012 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Radiation Oncology, specializing in cancer treatment with radiation. He holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training and certifications ensure adherence to the highest standards of medical practice in British Columbia, under the regulatory oversight of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Driven by a commitment to multidisciplinary, evidence-based care, Dr. Owen focuses on delivering personalized treatment plans that prioritize patient and family support. He is dedicated to advancing cancer treatment through ongoing research and collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Fluent in English, he strives to make each patient’s journey through diagnosis and treatment as supportive and informed as possible, ensuring a compassionate approach to cancer care in Kelowna.

Dr. Justin Owen has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): A diverse group of tumors that arise from cells of the endocrine (hormonal) and nervous systems, treated with various systemic therapies.
• Brain & Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumors (Primary & Metastatic - Medical Oncology aspects): Malignant tumors of the brain and spinal cord, where medical oncologists may manage chemotherapy or targeted therapies as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Lung Cancer (Non-Small Cell & Small Cell): Cancers originating in the lungs, treated with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and/or radiation based on type and stage.

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• 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.
• Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in the bone marrow that produces antibodies, leading to bone damage and other complications.
• Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood cells.

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.
• Gynecologic Cancers (e.g., Cervical, Uterine, Vaginal, Vulvar - Radiation Aspects): Application of external beam radiation and/or brachytherapy for cancers of the female reproductive tract.

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. Justin Owen or your referring physician.

• 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.
• Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): Preventative radiation treatment to the brain for certain cancers at high risk of brain metastases.
• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• 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.
• 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).
• Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): Utilizing advanced imaging during treatment delivery to precisely target tumors and adapt to changes, while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Owen provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Owen 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.

Dr. Owen practices at a specialized cancer centre located within a hospital department in Kelowna's Central neighbourhood, serving the communities of South Pandosy and Downtown. The facility is situated near Rutland Centennial Park and Rutland Town Centre, providing easy access for patients. It is accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), with wheelchair accessibility and metered street parking available nearby. The location offers convenient access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities for adult patients with suspected or diagnosed cancer and blood disorders, ensuring comprehensive and supportive care in a comfortable environment.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Owen, an Radiation Oncologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

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. Owen are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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 Medical Services Plan (MSP), Dr. Owen'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. Owen, an Radiation Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Owen 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 Dr. Owen 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. Owen 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 Dr. Owen if there are any suitable clinical trials available for your condition, either at Dr. Owen's institution or through collaborative research networks. He can provide information or refer you for consideration.

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. Owen specializes in planning and delivering radiation therapy using techniques like EBRT, IMRT, SBRT, or brachytherapy. It is an essential modality in the multidisciplinary management of many cancers.

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

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

What does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Owen 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 such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Dr. Owen has expertise in Radiation Oncology, focusing on the use of high-energy radiation to treat cancer, and provides comprehensive care for patients with various cancer and blood disorders.

399 Royal Ave, Sindi Ahluwalia Hawkins Cancer Centre - Department of Radiation Oncology
Kelowna, BC V1Y 5L3

Phone: (250) 712-3958 | Fax: (250) 712-3911

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Owen is a licensed Radiation Oncologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. 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 British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/375461/Owen%2CJustin