Dr. Mustapha Chelfi – Oncologist / Hematologist | Gatineau, QC

Dr. Mustapha Chelfi, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at CHVO - Hôpital de Gatineau, Radiooncologie in Gatineau, QC, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive cancer care. His expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, ensuring that each patient receives tailored treatment in a supportive environment. Dr. Chelfi's practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), with license number 98368, ensuring quality and safety in his patient care.

He graduated with a Medical Degree in 1998 and has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist for over 26 years. Dr. Chelfi completed extensive post-graduate medical training and certification in Radiation Oncology, specializing in the utilization of radiation to treat cancer effectively and safely. His longstanding dedication to his specialty reflects his commitment to staying current with the latest advancements and evidence-based practices in cancer treatment.

Dr. Chelfi is dedicated to providing multidisciplinary, patient-centered care with a focus on evidence-based treatment strategies. He values close communication with his patients and their families, offering support and guidance throughout the treatment journey. Fluent in French, he ensures clear and compassionate communication with his diverse patient population, and he actively contributes to ongoing research and quality improvement initiatives in the field of Radiation Oncology.

Dr. Mustapha Chelfi has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology

• Head & Neck Cancers (e.g., Laryngeal, Pharyngeal, Oral Cavity): Utilizing radiation therapy as a primary treatment, or in conjunction with surgery and/or chemotherapy for cancers of the head and neck region.
• 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.
• Breast Cancer (Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, Palliative Radiation): Applying radiation after lumpectomy or mastectomy to reduce recurrence risk, or to treat metastatic disease.

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.
• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A type of cancer that starts in certain blood-forming cells of the bone marrow, often managed with targeted therapies.
• Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• Melanoma & Advanced Skin Cancers: Aggressive forms of skin cancer, where oncologists manage systemic treatments like immunotherapy or targeted therapy for advanced or metastatic disease.
• 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.
• 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.

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. Mustapha Chelfi or your referring physician.

• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): Preventative radiation treatment to the brain for certain cancers at high risk of brain metastases.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Chelfi provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Chelfi 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 Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.

Dr. Chelfi practices primarily at CHVO - Hôpital de Gatineau, Radiooncologie, located in the Gatineau Sector East (Pointe-Gatineau, Le Baron) neighborhood of Gatineau, QC. The facility is conveniently situated near UQO (Université du Québec en Outaouais) Campus Alexandre-Taché, making it accessible for patients from various parts of Gatineau and surrounding regions. It is well served by public transit, including the Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO) and the Rapibus BRT system, ensuring easy access for patients. The hospital is wheelchair accessible, and paid parking options are close by to facilitate patient visits in comfort and convenience.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Chelfi, an Radiation Oncologist, covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

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. Chelfi are generally covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC 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 Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ), Dr. Chelfi'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. Chelfi, an Radiation Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Chelfi 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. Chelfi 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. Chelfi 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 does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Chelfi specialize in?

An Oncologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This can include Medical Oncologists who use systemic treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, Radiation Oncologists who use radiation therapy, and Surgical Oncologists who perform surgery to remove tumors. A Hematologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the blood, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph glands; this includes benign conditions like anemia and bleeding disorders, as well as malignant conditions (blood cancers) like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Dr. Chelfi has expertise in radiation oncology, focusing on the use of radiation to treat cancer.

Does a Hematologist only treat blood cancers?

No, Hematologists treat a wide range of blood disorders, not just cancers. This includes benign (non-cancerous) conditions such as various types of anemia (e.g., iron deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia), bleeding disorders (like hemophilia or von Willebrand disease), clotting disorders (thrombophilia, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism), and issues with white blood cells (like neutropenia) or platelets (like ITP). Dr. Chelfi, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.

How does cancer or blood disorder treatment differ for children compared to adults?

As a Radiation Oncologist, Dr. Chelfi does not specialize in pediatric hematology or oncology. 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. Care is family-centered, involving parents and caregivers closely in decision-making and support.

What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Chelfi 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. Chelfi 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 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. Chelfi may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.

CHVO - Hôpital de Gatineau, Radiooncologie
909 boul de la Vérendrye O, CP 2000 S. Bureau-Chef
Gatineau, QC J8P 7H2

Phone: (819) 966-6100

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Chelfi is a licensed Radiation Oncologist regulated by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ) under the Medical Act in QC. 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 Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ): https://www.cmq.org/en/directory/physicians?number=98368