About
Dr. Marianne Jane Taylor, 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 Kelowna, 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, aiming to improve outcomes and quality of life for her patients. Dr. Taylor’s approach emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual's diagnosis and needs, ensuring access to advanced diagnostic tools and therapeutic options.
She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Western Ontario in 1985 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies). She holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, underscoring her expertise and adherence to high standards of medical practice in Canada.
Dr. Taylor is dedicated to providing multidisciplinary, evidence-based care with a focus on patient and family support throughout the cancer journey. She speaks English fluently and is committed to advancing cancer treatment and research in Kelowna. Her clinical philosophy emphasizes compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring that each patient receives holistic support and the latest in treatment advancements.
Dr. Marianne Taylor has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.
- 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.
- Breast Cancer (Early Stage, Locally Advanced, Metastatic): Malignant tumors developing in the cells of the breast, managed with various therapies including hormonal, chemo, targeted agents, and immunotherapy.
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. Marianne Taylor 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.
- 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.
- Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
- Integration with Palliative & Supportive Oncology Services: Collaborative care focusing on optimal symptom management, pain control, and psychosocial support throughout the cancer journey.
- 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.
- 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).
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Taylor provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Taylor 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. Marianne Jane Taylor practices at a specialized cancer centre located in the heart of Kelowna's Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighbourhood. The facility is situated near landmarks such as Okanagan College and is easily accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The centre is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently nearby, making visits straightforward for patients and their families. The location offers a welcoming environment with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities dedicated to comprehensive cancer care.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Taylor, 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. Taylor 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. Taylor'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. Taylor, an Medical Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Medical Oncologist like Dr. Taylor 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. Taylor 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. Taylor 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.
- How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Taylor?
- Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Taylor, 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. Taylor works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.
- How will treatment decisions be made for my condition by Dr. Taylor?
- Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and made collaboratively. Dr. Taylor will consider many factors, including the type and stage of your cancer or blood disorder, your overall health, genetic markers of the disease (if applicable), current treatment guidelines, and importantly, your personal preferences and values. Often, cases are discussed in multidisciplinary team meetings (tumor boards) with other specialists to ensure a comprehensive approach. You will be an active participant in this decision-making process.
399 Royal Ave, BC Cancer Agency
Kelowna, BC V1Y 5L3
Phone: (250) 979-6650 | Fax: (250) 712-3911
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Taylor 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/324211/Taylor%2CMarianne