Dr. Mona Naiim Shafey – Oncologist / Hematologist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Mona Naiim Shafey 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 Calgary, AB, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. Her practice is dedicated to addressing a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions. Dr. Shafey's approach emphasizes compassionate, patient-centered care, ensuring that each individual receives tailored treatment plans aligned with the latest clinical guidelines.

She completed her medical education with an MD Doctor of Medicine from the University of Ottawa in 2003, followed by extensive postgraduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Her certifications include rigorous postgraduate medical training and certification in hematology, ensuring her expertise aligns with the highest standards of practice upheld by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). This accreditation underscores her commitment to maintaining professional excellence and adhering to Alberta’s healthcare regulations.

Dr. Shafey’s clinical philosophy centers on multidisciplinary care, evidence-based treatment, and holistic patient support. She is dedicated to providing personalized care for adults with suspected or diagnosed blood disorders or cancers, utilizing advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities to optimize outcomes. Fluent in English, she strives to foster open communication, empowering her patients through education and compassionate guidance throughout their healthcare journey.

Dr. Mona Shafey has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• 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.
• 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.

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.
• Vitamin B12 & Folate Deficiency Anemias: Anemias resulting from a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, essential for red blood cell formation.
• Hereditary Hemochromatosis & Other Iron Overload States: Genetic or acquired conditions leading to excessive iron accumulation in the body, requiring management to prevent organ damage.

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. Mona Shafey or your referring physician.

• 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.
• Management of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): Diagnosis and treatment of bone marrow failure disorders, including supportive care, growth factors, and disease-modifying therapies.
• Autologous & Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplant Consultation, Coordination & Post-Transplant Care (as part of a transplant team or referral network): Evaluating eligibility for, coordinating referrals to, and providing follow-up care for patients undergoing stem cell transplantation for hematologic malignancies.
• Management of Clotting Disorders / Thrombophilia (Inherited & Acquired): Diagnosis, anticoagulation therapy, and long-term management for conditions predisposing to abnormal blood clots (e.g., DVT, PE, Factor V Leiden, Antiphospholipid Syndrome).
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Shafey provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Shafey 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. Shafey practices at a specialized cancer centre located within a hospital department in Calgary's NW: Hillhurst, Westmount, Sunnyside (Kensington) neighborhood. The facility is conveniently situated near landmarks such as the BMO Centre and GMC Stadium, making it easily accessible for patients. Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT) services the area, providing public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Metered street parking is available nearby, offering convenient access for patients driving to appointments.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Shafey, 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. Shafey 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. Shafey'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. Shafey, an Hematologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Shafey 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.

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 can I expect at my first appointment with an Oncologist/Hematologist?

Your first appointment with Dr. Shafey will be comprehensive and may last an hour or more. It will involve a detailed review of your medical history, family history of cancer, current symptoms, medications, and any previous tests, imaging results (CT, MRI, PET scans), and biopsy reports related to your diagnosis. She will likely perform a thorough physical examination. The main goals are to confirm your diagnosis, discuss the type and stage of your condition (if applicable), and outline potential treatment options. This is a crucial time to ask questions, and you are encouraged to bring a family member or friend for support and to help take notes. Dr. Shafey will explain the proposed treatment plan, including goals, benefits, potential side effects, duration, and what to expect moving forward. Further tests may be ordered.

1403 29 ST NW, 601 South Tower
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9

Phone: (403) 944-5222 | Fax: (403) 592-8423

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Shafey 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=a96db58e-e23c-4b7a-bad0-75fba7f3f506&i=1307