Dr. Maha Almahmudi – Oncologist / Hematologist | Abbotsford, BC

Dr. Maha Almahmudi, 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 Abbotsford, BC, she provides compassionate and precise cancer care to adult patients with suspected or diagnosed malignancies and blood disorders. Her practice is aligned with the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, safe, and effective treatment delivery. Dr. Almahmudi’s role encompasses the comprehensive planning and administration of radiation therapy, contributing to improved patient outcomes and quality of life.

She graduated with a Medical Degree (MB BCh) from the University of Al Fateh in Libya in 1999, followed by extensive postgraduate training in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Dr. Almahmudi holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and specialty expertise.

Driven by a philosophy of multidisciplinary, evidence-based care, Dr. Almahmudi is dedicated to supporting her patients and their families through personalized treatment plans. She is committed to continual professional development and advancing cancer treatment research. Fluent in English and Arabic, she strives to communicate effectively and empathetically with her diverse patient community in Abbotsford.

Dr. Maha Almahmudi has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• Head and Neck Cancers (Oral Cavity, Pharynx, Larynx - Medical Oncology aspects): Cancers arising in the head and neck region, where medical oncologists manage chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• 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.
• Gastrointestinal Cancers (Esophageal, Stomach, Pancreatic, Liver, Biliary): A group of cancers affecting the digestive system organs, each requiring specific diagnostic and multidisciplinary treatment approaches including systemic therapies.

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.
• 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.

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) / Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): A type of cancer that starts from white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the bone marrow, typically slow-growing.
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL) (e.g., Diffuse Large B-Cell, Follicular, Mantle Cell): A diverse group of blood cancers that develop from lymphocytes, with many different subtypes requiring tailored treatments.
• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells.

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. Maha Almahmudi or your referring physician.

• Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): Preventative radiation treatment to the brain for certain cancers at high risk of brain metastases.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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).
• 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).
• 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.
• Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation - LDR/HDR) for Specific Cancers: Planning and performing procedures where radioactive sources are placed directly into or near a tumor (e.g., for prostate, cervical, breast cancer).

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Almahmudi provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Almahmudi 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. Almahmudi practices at a specialized cancer centre located in the Central Abbotsford, Mill Lake Area neighborhood. The facility is situated within a hospital department easily accessible from nearby landmarks such as Local Shops & Restaurants. Public transit options are available via the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit), making it convenient for patients to attend appointments. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available on-site, ensuring ease of access for all patients seeking expert cancer care in Abbotsford.

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Almahmudi 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 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. Almahmudi may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.

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. Almahmudi, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.

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

Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Almahmudi, 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. Almahmudi works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.

32900 Marshall Rd, Abbotsford Centre, BC Cancer Agency
Abbotsford, BC V2S 0C2

Phone: (604) 851-4710 | Fax: (604) 851-4726

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Almahmudi 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/339642/Almahmudi%2CMaha