About
Dr. Kevin Won-Jung Song is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemias and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Vancouver, BC, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorder) care. His approach emphasizes accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support for adults with suspected or diagnosed hematologic conditions. The facility where he practices is equipped with advanced diagnostic and therapeutic resources, ensuring access to the latest in blood disorder management.
He graduated with an MD CM from McGill University in 1995 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Hematology, specializing in blood disorders. Dr. Song holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining high standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.
Dedicated to delivering patient-centered care, Dr. Song adopts a multidisciplinary approach, integrating evidence-based treatments with compassionate support. He is committed to advancing research and clinical practice in hematology, ensuring patients in Vancouver benefit from the latest innovations. He speaks fluent English and is devoted to guiding patients and their families through complex medical journeys with clarity and empathy.
Dr. Kevin Song has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A type of cancer that starts in certain blood-forming cells of the bone marrow, often managed with targeted therapies.
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood cells.
- 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.
Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed
- Von Willebrand Disease & Other Inherited Bleeding Disorders: Genetic conditions that impair the blood's ability to clot effectively, causing prolonged or excessive bleeding.
- Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): An autoimmune disorder characterized by a low number of platelets, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
- Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.
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. Kevin Song or your referring physician.
- Management of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia, Myelofibrosis): Treatment strategies to control blood counts, manage symptoms, and prevent complications associated with these chronic bone marrow disorders.
- 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.
- Diagnosis & Multimodal Management of Leukemias (AML, ALL, CLL, CML, Hairy Cell): Comprehensive care for various types of leukemia, including diagnostic workup (bone marrow interpretation, cytogenetics, molecular testing), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and coordination for stem cell transplant where indicated.
- Peripheral Blood Smear Review & Advanced Cytomorphology: Expert microscopic examination of blood cells to identify abnormalities and aid in diagnosis.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
- 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 Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Song provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Song 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. Song practices at a specialized cancer centre located in the vibrant Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver, BC. The facility is situated within a short distance of landmarks such as the Brittania Community Centre and 'The Drive' Neighbourhood, making it a familiar and accessible destination for patients. Public transit options include TransLink services—SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines—as well as bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront station). The centre is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and metered street parking is available nearby for convenience.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Song, an Hematologist, 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 Hematologist such as Dr. Song 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. Song'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. Song, an Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Song 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. Song?
- 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. Song and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect you with these valuable resources.
- What is targeted therapy in cancer treatment?
- Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack specific types of cancer cells with less harm to normal cells. These therapies work by targeting specific genes or proteins found in cancer cells or cells related to cancer growth, like blood vessel cells. Genetic testing of the tumor is often done to see if a targeted therapy is likely to be effective. Dr. Song can explain if targeted therapy is an option for your cancer.
- What are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Song help manage them?
- Chemotherapy can cause various side effects, which differ depending on the specific drugs used, the dose, and individual patient factors. Common ones include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, changes in appetite, diarrhea or constipation, and increased risk of infection due to low blood counts. Dr. Song and the oncology nursing team will discuss potential side effects of your specific treatment plan in detail and will actively work to prevent and manage them with medications (e.g., anti-nausea drugs, growth factors to boost blood counts), supportive care advice (nutrition, hydration, rest), and regular monitoring. Open communication about any side effects you experience is very important for effective management.
10th Floor-2775 Laurel St, Vancouver General Hospital, Leukemia/BMT Program of BC
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9
Phone: (604) 875-4863 | Fax: (604) 875-4763
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Song is a licensed Hematologist 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/323818/Song%2CKevin