Dr. Lee Ann Martin – Oncologist / Hematologist | Surrey, BC

Dr. Lee Ann Martin, a Medical Oncologist, specializes in using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted agents to treat a wide range of cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Surrey, BC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive cancer care. Her practice centers on the use of cutting-edge systemic therapies for adult solid tumors, offering advanced diagnostic and therapeutic options. The care she provides is tailored to adults with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders, with a focus on delivering personalized treatment plans that adhere to the highest standards of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Dr. Martin graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 1991. She completed extensive post-graduate training in Medical Oncology, focusing on systemic treatments for cancer. She holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards and staying current with the latest advancements in her field.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes multidisciplinary care, evidence-based treatment, and compassionate support for patients and their families. Dr. Martin is dedicated to advancing research and applying innovative therapies to improve patient outcomes. She speaks English fluently and is committed to providing accessible, respectful, and patient-centered care to the Surrey community.

Dr. Lee Martin has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• Melanoma & Advanced Skin Cancers: Aggressive forms of skin cancer, where oncologists manage systemic treatments like immunotherapy or targeted therapy for advanced or metastatic disease.
• 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.
• Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.

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. Lee Martin or your referring physician.

• Treatment of Various Solid Tumors: Specialized care for a wide range of cancers such as breast, lung (NSCLC, SCLC), colorectal, prostate, melanoma, ovarian, uterine, cervical, bladder, kidney, pancreatic, stomach, esophageal, head & neck (non-surgical aspects), brain tumors (non-surgical aspects), and sarcomas.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapies Administration & Management: Expert administration and ongoing management of treatments including intravenous and oral chemotherapy, immunotherapy (e.g., checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy coordination), targeted molecular therapy, and hormone therapy.
• Cancer Survivorship Care & Long-Term Follow-Up: Developing individualized follow-up care plans for cancer survivors, focusing on surveillance for recurrence, management of late effects of treatment, and promoting wellness.
• Management of Treatment-Related Side Effects & Toxicities: Proactive and reactive strategies to manage side effects of cancer therapies, including nausea, fatigue, myelosuppression, and neuropathy.
• Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, & Metastatic/Palliative Systemic Therapy: Developing treatment plans given before (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) primary local treatment (like surgery or radiation) to improve outcomes, or for managing advanced/metastatic cancer to control disease and improve quality oflife.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Martin provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Martin 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. Lee Ann Martin practices at a specialized cancer centre located in the West Newton, Strawberry Hill neighborhood of Surrey, BC. The facility is situated within a hospital department that offers comprehensive cancer diagnostics and treatments. It is conveniently accessible via public transit, with nearby TransLink services including the SkyTrain Expo Line and bus routes. The centre is wheelchair accessible, ensuring easy access for all patients. Paid parking options are close by, providing convenient parking for visitors. The location's proximity to landmarks such as the Historic Cloverdale Town Centre and the Langley Border makes it an easily reachable destination for patients across the region.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Martin, an Medical 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 Medical Oncologist such as Dr. Martin 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. Martin'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. Martin, an Medical Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Medical Oncologist like Dr. Martin 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 does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Martin 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 (blood cancers) like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Dr. Martin has expertise in medical oncology, focusing on systemic treatments for solid tumors, and is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for various cancers and blood conditions.

What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Martin 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. Martin 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.

Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Martin recommends it?

A bone marrow biopsy and aspiration are procedures used to collect and examine bone marrow, the soft tissue inside your bones where blood cells are made. Dr. Martin might recommend this test to diagnose or monitor various blood disorders, including leukemias, lymphomas, myeloma, anemias, or infections. The procedure is usually done on the back of the hip bone under local anesthesia. A needle is used to withdraw a small sample of liquid marrow (aspiration) and a small core of bone marrow tissue (biopsy). You may feel some pressure or brief pain.

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

13750 96 Ave, BC Cancer Surrey Centre
Surrey, BC V3V 1Z2

Phone: (604) 930-4028 | Fax: (604) 587-4312

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Martin is a licensed Medical 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/313022/Martin%2CLee