Dr. Louis Leonard Fenkell – Oncologist / Hematologist | Newmarket, ON

Dr. Louis Leonard Fenkell, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at the McMaster University Medical Centre in Newmarket, ON, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to delivering compassionate and comprehensive cancer care. His expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, ensuring each patient receives tailored treatment in a supportive environment. Dr. Fenkell’s practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe, ethical, and effective care for adults with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in 2004 and has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist since 2009, accumulating over 15 years of experience. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation), reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest level of professional competence and staying current with the latest advancements in the field.

Dr. Fenkell’s clinical philosophy centers on multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatment, and personalized patient support. He is dedicated to providing thorough, compassionate care to the Newmarket community, ensuring patients and their families are well-informed and supported throughout their treatment journey. Fluent in English, he is committed to clear communication and patient-centered care.

Dr. Louis Fenkell has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• 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.
• Sarcomas (Bone & Soft Tissue - Systemic Therapy): Rare cancers arising from connective tissues, where medical oncologists administer chemotherapy or targeted therapies for advanced or metastatic disease.

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
• 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

• Head & Neck Cancers (e.g., Laryngeal, Pharyngeal, Oral Cavity): Utilizing radiation therapy as a primary treatment, or in conjunction with surgery and/or chemotherapy for cancers of the head and neck region.
• Gastrointestinal Cancers (e.g., Rectal, Anal, Pancreatic, Stomach): Role of radiation therapy in managing various cancers of the digestive system, often as part of combined modality treatment.
• Breast Cancer (Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, Palliative Radiation): Applying radiation after lumpectomy or mastectomy to reduce recurrence risk, or to treat metastatic disease.

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. Louis Fenkell or your referring physician.

• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) - 3D Conformal, IMRT, VMAT: Developing precise, individualized plans for delivering radiation using external machines (e.g., linear accelerators) with techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT).
• Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): Preventative radiation treatment to the brain for certain cancers at high risk of brain metastases.
• 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.
• Palliative Radiation Therapy for Symptom Control: Using radiation to alleviate pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by cancer.
• 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.
• 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.

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

Dr. Fenkell practices primarily at the McMaster University Medical Centre, located in the Central Newmarket, Gorham-College Manor neighborhood of Newmarket, ON. The facility is easily accessible via Highway 404 Access and is close to Tannery Mall, making it convenient for patients traveling from various parts of the region. Public transit options are available through York Region Transit (YRT) / Viva, providing reliable transportation to and from the location. The practice is committed to accessibility; the facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Paid parking options are close by, offering convenient and secure parking for visitors to the centre. This setting ensures that patients receive expert cancer care in a welcoming and accessible environment.

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

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

Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Fenkell 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. Fenkell 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 palliative care, and when might Dr. Fenkell 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. Fenkell 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.

What can I expect at my first appointment with an Oncologist/Hematologist?

Your first appointment with Dr. Fenkell will be comprehensive and may last an hour or more. It will involve a detailed review of your medical history, family history of cancer, current symptoms, medications, and any previous tests, imaging results (CT, MRI, PET scans), and biopsy reports related to your diagnosis. He will likely perform a thorough physical examination. The main goals are to confirm your diagnosis, discuss the type and stage of your condition (if applicable), and outline potential treatment options. This is a crucial time to ask questions, and you are encouraged to bring a family member or friend for support and to help take notes. Dr. Fenkell will explain the proposed treatment plan, including goals, benefits, potential side effects, duration, and what to expect moving forward. Further tests may be ordered.

McMaster University Medical Centre
Room 2F51, 596 Davis Drive
Newmarket, ON L3Y 2P9

Phone: (905) 895-4521 | Fax: (905) 952-2818

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Fenkell 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/Fenkell-Louis-Leonard/0210811-80807