About
Dr. Marlon Luke Hagerty, 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 Thunder Bay, ON, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive cancer care. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring safe, effective, and evidence-based treatment for his patients. Dr. Hagerty's expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, focusing on personalized treatment approaches that prioritize patient safety and comfort. He primarily serves adult patients with suspected or diagnosed cancers or blood disorders, offering access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities to optimize outcomes.
Dr. Hagerty graduated with a Medical Degree from the Northern Ontario School of Medicine in 2011 and has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist for over 8 years, since 2016. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist in Radiation Oncology, demonstrating his specialized training and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in cancer treatment with radiation. His certification underscores his expertise in delivering targeted, effective radiation therapies within the framework of provincial and national guidelines.
Dedicated to providing compassionate, multidisciplinary care, Dr. Hagerty is committed to integrating the latest evidence-based practices into his clinical approach. He emphasizes supporting his patients and their families through transparent communication and personalized treatment plans. Fluent in English, he ensures clear and empathetic dialogue, fostering a trusting environment for his patients in Thunder Bay and the surrounding communities.
Dr. Marlon Hagerty has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- Sarcomas (Bone & Soft Tissue - Systemic Therapy): Rare cancers arising from connective tissues, where medical oncologists administer chemotherapy or targeted therapies for advanced or metastatic disease.
- Ovarian, Uterine (Endometrial), & Cervical Cancers (Gynecologic Oncology - Medical Aspects): Systemic treatment aspects for cancers of the female reproductive system, often in collaboration with gynecologic oncologists or surgeons.
- Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): A diverse group of tumors that arise from cells of the endocrine (hormonal) and nervous systems, treated with various systemic therapies.
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
- Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
- 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.
Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology
- 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.
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumors (Brain & Spine): Employing precise radiation techniques to treat benign and malignant tumors of the brain and spinal cord.
- Genitourinary Cancers (e.g., Prostate, Bladder, Testicular): Using radiation therapy, including brachytherapy for prostate cancer, to treat cancers of the male and female urinary and reproductive systems.
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. Marlon Hagerty or your referring physician.
- Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
- 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).
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Hagerty provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Hagerty 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.
The practice is based at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department located in the Port Arthur Central (Downtown North Core, Waterfront area) neighborhood of Thunder Bay, ON. The facility is conveniently situated near landmarks such as the Victoriaville Civic Centre and Downtown Fort William (South Core). It is easily accessible via Thunder Bay Transit, ensuring convenient public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at the facility, providing easy access for patients arriving by car, and the environment is designed to support a comfortable and welcoming experience for all visitors.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Hagerty, 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. Hagerty 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. Hagerty'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. Hagerty, an Radiation Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Hagerty 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 palliative care, and when might Dr. Hagerty 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. Hagerty 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 are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Hagerty help manage them?
- Chemotherapy can cause various side effects, which differ depending on the specific drugs used, the dose, and individual patient factors. Common ones include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, changes in appetite, diarrhea or constipation, and increased risk of infection due to low blood counts. Dr. Hagerty and the oncology nursing team will discuss potential side effects of your specific treatment plan in detail and will actively work to prevent and manage them with medications (e.g., anti-nausea drugs, growth factors to boost blood counts), supportive care advice (nutrition, hydration, rest), and regular monitoring. Open communication about any side effects you experience is very important for effective management.
980 Oliver Road
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6V4
Phone: (807) 684-6000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hagerty 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/Hagerty-Marlon-Luke/0282754-99210