Dr. Maria Laura Avila – Oncologist / Hematologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Maria Laura Avila is a dedicated Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers and blood disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. Practicing at the Halton Family Health Center in Toronto, ON, she is part of a committed healthcare team that provides comprehensive pediatric cancer care and blood disorder management. Her approach emphasizes patient-centered care, ensuring that each child's unique needs are met with compassion and advanced medical expertise. Dr. Avila's practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), with license number 86995, to deliver safe and effective treatment.

With a strong foundation in medical education, Dr. Avila graduated with her Medical Degree from the National University of Tucuman in Argentina in 2002. She has been practicing as a Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist for over five years, since 2019, bringing extensive experience in managing complex pediatric blood disorders and cancers. She is certified as a CPSO Recognized Specialist in Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of pediatric cancer and blood disorder care.

Dr. Avila's clinical philosophy centers on multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatments, and supportive care that involves families as integral members of the care team. She is dedicated to advancing research and clinical practices to improve outcomes for her young patients in Toronto. Fluent in English and Spanish, she strives to create a welcoming environment where families feel supported and informed throughout their treatment journey.

Dr. Maria Avila has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Pediatric Hematology & Oncology Conditions

• Neuroblastoma: A cancer that develops from immature nerve cells (neuroblasts) in several areas of the body, most commonly arising in and around the adrenal glands.
• Childhood Hodgkin & Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas: Cancers of the lymphatic system that occur in children and adolescents, with various subtypes and treatment approaches.
• Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH): A rare disorder involving an overproduction of a type of white blood cell called histiocytes, which can cause tumor-like lesions in various organs.

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. Maria Avila or your referring physician.

• 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.
• 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).
• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
• Management of Chemotherapy & Radiation Side Effects in Children: Age-appropriate strategies to prevent and manage treatment-related side effects in pediatric patients.
• Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant Consultation & Coordination (Referral to Transplant Center): Evaluating and coordinating referrals for stem cell transplantation in children with specific cancers or severe blood disorders.
• Diagnosis & Multimodal Management of Childhood Cancers: Specialized, family-centered care for leukemias, lymphomas, brain tumors, neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, sarcomas, and other cancers affecting infants, children, and adolescents.
• Pediatric Bone Marrow Aspiration & Biopsy: Performing diagnostic bone marrow procedures tailored for children, often with sedation or anesthesia.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Pediatric Hematology and Oncology (Childhood Cancers and Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Avila provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Avila 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. Avila practices primarily at the Halton Family Health Center, located in Toronto's vibrant Bay Street Corridor, also known as the Discovery District. The facility is conveniently situated near landmarks such as Queen's Park and Hospital Row, which hosts various hospitals and medical institutions. Families can access the center easily via public transit options including the TTC subway, streetcar, and bus services. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby, providing additional convenience for families visiting the clinic.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Avila, an Pediatric Hematologist/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 Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist such as Dr. Avila 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. Avila'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. Avila, an Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist like Dr. Avila 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 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. Avila can explain if targeted therapy is an option for your cancer.

How does cancer or blood disorder treatment differ for children compared to adults?

[As a Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist, Dr. Avila specializes in these differences. Children's bodies react differently to treatments, and the types of cancers and blood disorders are often distinct from adult conditions. Treatment protocols are specifically designed for pediatric patients, considering their growth and development. Care is family-centered, involving parents and caregivers closely in decision-making and support.]

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

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

Halton Family Health Center
686 Bay St
Toronto, ON M5G 0A4

Phone: (416) 813-7500

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Avila is a licensed Pediatric Hematologist/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/Avila-Maria-Laura/0239401-86995