About
Dr. Mary Lynn Savoie is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemias and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre or hospital department in Calgary, AB, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematologic care. Her practice is situated within a facility that adheres strictly to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, patient-centered services. Dr. Savoie addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions tailored to individual patient needs.
She graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Dalhousie University in 1996 and has completed extensive post-graduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Her certifications include FRCPC (Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada), LMCC (Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada), and the Certificate of Special Competence in Hematology from the Royal College of Physicians Canada. These credentials reflect her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development.
Dr. Savoie’s clinical philosophy centers on providing multidisciplinary, evidence-based care with a compassionate approach. She is dedicated to supporting her patients and their families throughout their treatment journey, emphasizing personalized care plans that incorporate the latest advances in hematology. Fluent in English and French, she is committed to clear communication and ensuring her patients feel informed and supported at every stage of their care.
Dr. Mary Savoie has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed
- Von Willebrand Disease & Other Inherited Bleeding Disorders: Genetic conditions that impair the blood's ability to clot effectively, causing prolonged or excessive bleeding.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia: A common type of anemia caused by insufficient iron, leading to reduced red blood cell production and oxygen-carrying capacity.
- Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells.
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A type of cancer that starts in certain blood-forming cells of the bone marrow, often managed with targeted therapies.
- Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg 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. Mary Savoie or your referring physician.
- Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP) & Other Platelet Disorders Management: Investigating and managing low platelet counts due to immune or other causes.
- Bone Marrow Aspiration & Biopsy (Performance or Interpretation): Performing or interpreting samples from bone marrow aspirations and biopsies to diagnose blood disorders and cancers.
- 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).
- Therapeutic Apheresis Consultation (e.g., for TTP, plasma exchange indications): Consultation and coordination for procedures that separate components of blood for therapeutic purposes.
- Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
- 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.
- Diagnosis & Multimodal Management of Leukemias (AML, ALL, CLL, CML, Hairy Cell): Comprehensive care for various types of leukemia, including diagnostic workup (bone marrow interpretation, cytogenetics, molecular testing), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and coordination for stem cell transplant where indicated.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Savoie provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Savoie 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 Alberta (CPSA) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.
Dr. Savoie practices within a specialized cancer centre located in the NW neighborhood of Calgary, including areas such as Hillhurst, Westmount, and Sunnyside (Kensington). The facility is conveniently situated near landmarks like Calgary City Hall and is accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). The centre is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are available nearby, providing convenient options for patients arriving by car. This location offers state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities, supporting comprehensive hematology and oncology care for adults with suspected or diagnosed blood disorders and cancers.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Savoie, an Hematologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- 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 Hematologist such as Dr. Savoie are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), Dr. Savoie'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. Savoie, an Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Savoie 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. Savoie 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. Savoie 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.
- What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Savoie?
- After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Savoie 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.
- What kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Savoie?
- Supportive care is a crucial part of treatment, aiming to manage symptoms, reduce side effects, improve quality of life, and address emotional and practical needs. This can include effective pain and symptom management, nutritional support and counseling, psychological support (counseling, therapy), social work services for practical and emotional support, physiotherapy or occupational therapy, access to patient support groups, and spiritual care. Dr. Savoie and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect you with these valuable resources.
- 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. Savoie can explain if targeted therapy is an option for your cancer.
1331 29 St NW
Calgary, AB T2N 4N2
Phone: (403) 944-5222 | Fax: (403) 592-8423
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Savoie is a licensed Hematologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. 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 Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=231b5fdf-951b-4625-a757-da6741be85d7&i=1283