Dr. Lynda Mae Foltz – Oncologist / Hematologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Lynda Mae Foltz is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemias and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at Providence Hematology in Vancouver, BC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Her practice is rooted in the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Foltz addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions to improve patient outcomes. She is dedicated to supporting adults with suspected or diagnosed blood conditions, ensuring access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options within a supportive environment.

Dr. Foltz graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2000 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). She holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of clinical expertise and ongoing professional development. Her training has equipped her with the knowledge to deliver comprehensive blood disorder care, from complex diagnostic evaluations to targeted treatment strategies.

With a strong philosophy centered on multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based medicine, and patient and family support, Dr. Foltz is committed to advancing her patients' health and well-being. She strives to provide personalized care tailored to each individual's unique needs, fostering hope and confidence throughout the treatment journey. Fluent in English, she is dedicated to clear communication and compassionate patient engagement, serving the Vancouver community with a focus on excellence and hope.

Dr. Lynda Foltz has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A type of cancer that starts in certain blood-forming cells of the bone marrow, often managed with targeted therapies.
• 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.

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.
• Aplastic Anemia & Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes: Rare but serious conditions where the bone marrow doesn't produce enough new blood cells.
• Iron Deficiency Anemia: A common type of anemia caused by insufficient iron, leading to reduced red blood cell production and oxygen-carrying capacity.

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. Lynda Foltz or your referring physician.

• Interpretation of Special Hematologic Tests (e.g., Flow Cytometry, Cytogenetics, Molecular Studies): Analyzing results from advanced laboratory tests crucial for diagnosing and classifying hematologic conditions.
• Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
• Autologous & Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant Consultation, Coordination & Post-Transplant Care (as part of a transplant team or referral network): Evaluating eligibility for, coordinating referrals to, and providing follow-up care for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation for hematologic malignancies.
• Management of Clotting Disorders / Thrombophilia (Inherited & Acquired): Diagnosis, anticoagulation therapy, and long-term management for conditions predisposing to abnormal blood clots (e.g., DVT, PE, Factor V Leiden, Antiphospholipid Syndrome).
• Diagnosis & Treatment of Lymphomas (Hodgkin & Various Non-Hodgkin Subtypes): Tailored treatment strategies for cancers of the lymphatic system, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted agents, and radiotherapy coordination.
• Neutropenia & Other White Blood Cell Disorders Evaluation: Investigating and managing low or abnormal white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infections.
• Bone Marrow Aspiration & Biopsy (Performance or Interpretation): Performing or interpreting samples from bone marrow aspirations and biopsies to diagnose blood disorders and cancers.

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

Providence Hematology is situated in the vibrant Downtown Vancouver (Coal Harbour, Waterfront) neighborhood. The practice is conveniently located near the Stanley Park Entrance and Rogers Arena, making it easily accessible for patients. Public transit options are plentiful, including TransLink services such as SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free access for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby for those choosing to drive.

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Foltz 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 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. Foltz may refer patients to a Radiation Oncologist if this treatment is indicated for their type of cancer as part of a multidisciplinary care plan.

How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Foltz?

Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Foltz, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, specialized oncology nurses, pharmacists, social workers, dietitians, genetic counselors, and palliative care specialists. Regular team meetings (often called tumor boards or MDT meetings) usually occur to discuss individual patient cases and develop comprehensive, coordinated treatment plans. Dr. Foltz works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.

Does a Hematologist only treat blood cancers?

No, Hematologists treat a wide range of blood disorders, not just cancers. This includes benign (non-cancerous) conditions such as various types of anemia (e.g., iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia), bleeding disorders (like hemophilia or von Willebrand disease), clotting disorders (thrombophilia, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism), and issues with white blood cells (like neutropenia) or platelets (like ITP). Dr. Foltz, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.

Providence Hematology
112-744 Hastings St W
Vancouver, BC V6C 1A5

Phone: (236) 317-3083 | Fax: (604) 421-6474 | Website: http://providencehematology.com/

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Foltz 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/325036/Foltz%2CLynda