About
Dr. Mitchell Duane Baird Hodgins 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 within a hospital department in Kelowna, BC, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive care. His approach emphasizes patient-centered and hopeful treatment strategies, ensuring that adults with suspected or diagnosed blood disorders and cancers receive the best possible support. The facility offers access to advanced diagnostic and therapeutic resources, facilitating timely and accurate management of complex hematologic conditions.
He graduated with a Medical Doctor degree from the University of Saskatchewan in 2011 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Dr. Hodgins holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his dedication to maintaining high standards of clinical excellence and ongoing professional development.
Driven by a commitment to multidisciplinary care, Dr. Hodgins employs evidence-based treatments, prioritizes patient and family support, and continually advances his expertise through research and collaboration. Based in Kelowna, he is dedicated to serving the local community, communicating fluently in English, and ensuring that each patient receives personalized, compassionate care tailored to their unique needs.
Dr. Mitchell Hodgins has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed
- Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.
- Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): An autoimmune disorder characterized by a low number of platelets, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
- Iron Deficiency Anemia: A common type of anemia caused by insufficient iron, leading to reduced red blood cell production and oxygen-carrying capacity.
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- 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.
- Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) / Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): A type of cancer that starts from white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the bone marrow, typically slow-growing.
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. Mitchell Hodgins or your referring physician.
- Comprehensive Diagnosis & Management of Anemias: Investigating and treating various types of anemia, such as iron deficiency, vitamin B12/folate deficiency, hemolytic anemias (e.g., autoimmune hemolytic anemia), sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and aplastic anemia.
- 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.
- Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
- Diagnosis & Treatment of Lymphomas (Hodgkin & Various Non-Hodgkin Subtypes): Tailored treatment strategies for cancers of the lymphatic system, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted agents, and radiotherapy coordination.
- Blood Product Transfusion Support & Management of Transfusion Reactions: Overseeing transfusions of red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and managing any adverse reactions.
- Management of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia, Myelofibrosis): Treatment strategies to control blood counts, manage symptoms, and prevent complications associated with these chronic bone marrow 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).
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Hodgins provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Hodgins 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. Hodgins practices at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department located in the vibrant neighbourhoods of Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, and Downtown Kelowna. The facility is conveniently situated near landmarks such as Kelowna General Hospital and Okanagan College. Accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), the centre is wheelchair accessible and equipped to serve diverse patient needs. Metered street parking is available nearby, ensuring ease of access for patients attending appointments. The location offers a welcoming environment dedicated to comprehensive blood disorder and cancer care, with modern diagnostic and treatment facilities readily available to support optimal patient outcomes.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Hodgins, an Hematologist, 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 Hematologist such as Dr. Hodgins 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. Hodgins'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. Hodgins, an Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Hodgins 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. Hodgins 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. Hodgins 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 kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Hodgins?
- 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. Hodgins and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect you with these valuable resources.
202-2900 Pandosy St, Hematologist, Interior Hematology
Kelowna, BC V1Y 1V9
Phone: (250) 869-0210 | Fax: (250) 869-0211
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hodgins is a licensed Hematologist 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/356651/Hodgins%2CMitchell