About
Dr. Marisa Heather Des Mazes Finlay, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at Stratford Hospital in Mississauga, ON, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team. Her practice aligns with the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), with license number 74898. Dr. Finlay's expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, ensuring personalized and effective treatment options for her patients. She primarily serves adults with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders, providing access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic facilities to support comprehensive cancer care.
Dr. Finlay graduated with a Medical Degree from Queen's University in 2000 in Canada. She has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist for over 18 years, since 2006. She is certified as a RCPSC Specialist in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation), reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of expertise and patient safety. Her extensive clinical experience enables her to deliver evidence-based, compassionate care tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Dedicated to advancing multidisciplinary cancer care, Dr. Finlay is committed to incorporating the latest research and treatment modalities to optimize patient outcomes. She is passionate about supporting her patients and their families throughout their cancer journey, providing clear communication and empathetic guidance. Fluent in English, she is committed to fostering a respectful and supportive environment for all patients in Mississauga and the surrounding areas.
Dr. Marisa Finlay has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood cells.
- Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia, Myelofibrosis): A group of chronic blood cancers where the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets.
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): A type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects white blood cells called lymphocytes, common in children but also occurs in adults.
Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology
- Thoracic Cancers (e.g., Lung Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, Mesothelioma): Using radiation therapy to treat cancers within the chest cavity, often combined with other modalities.
- Gynecologic Cancers (e.g., Cervical, Uterine, Vaginal, Vulvar - Radiation Aspects): Application of external beam radiation and/or brachytherapy for cancers of the female reproductive tract.
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumors (Brain & Spine): Employing precise radiation techniques to treat benign and malignant tumors of the brain and spinal cord.
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- Lung Cancer (Non-Small Cell & Small Cell): Cancers originating in the lungs, treated with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and/or radiation based on type and stage.
- Melanoma & Advanced Skin Cancers: Aggressive forms of skin cancer, where oncologists manage systemic treatments like immunotherapy or targeted therapy for advanced or metastatic disease.
- Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.
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. Marisa Finlay 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.
- 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).
- 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).
- Radiation Therapy Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive assessment to determine if radiation therapy is an appropriate treatment modality, followed by meticulous 3D/4D simulation and treatment planning.
- 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.
- Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): Preventative radiation treatment to the brain for certain cancers at high risk of brain metastases.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Finlay provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Finlay 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.
Stratford Hospital, located in the Churchill Meadows neighborhood of Mississauga, ON, serves as the primary facility for Dr. Finlay's practice. The hospital is conveniently situated near landmarks such as Port Credit Harbour and Marina and Bradley Museum, making it easily accessible for patients. Public transit options include MiWay (Mississauga Transit), providing reliable and efficient transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by car. The hospital's central location ensures patients can access comprehensive cancer care services in a welcoming environment.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Finlay, 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. Finlay 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. Finlay'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. Finlay, an Radiation Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Finlay 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. Finlay may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.
- How does cancer or blood disorder treatment differ for children compared to adults?
- Treatment for children with cancer or blood disorders is highly specialized and managed by Pediatric Hematologists/Oncologists. They use protocols tailored to children, considering long-term effects on growth and development. Children’s bodies react differently to treatments, and the types of cancers and blood disorders are often distinct from adult conditions. Care is family-centered, involving parents and caregivers closely in decision-making and support.
- What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Finlay 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. Finlay 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 happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Finlay?
- After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Finlay will develop a survivorship care plan with you. This plan typically includes a schedule for follow-up appointments and tests to monitor for any signs of recurrence, management of any long-term side effects from treatment, recommendations for healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise), and coordination with your family doctor for ongoing general health care. The goal is to support your long-term health and well-being.
Stratford Hospital
2200 Eglinton Avenue West
Mississauga, ON L5M 2N1
Phone: (905) 813-1100 | Fax: (905) 813-3962
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Finlay 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/Finlay-Marisa-Heather-Des-Mazes/0168974-74898