Dr. Nathalie Aucoin – Oncologist / Hematologist | Laval, QC

Dr. Nathalie Aucoin is a highly skilled Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, offering expert care in the diagnosis and systemic treatment of both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. Practicing at Hôpital de la Cité-de-la-Santé in Laval, QC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate cancer care. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring that each patient receives safe, evidence-based, and personalized treatment strategies. Dr. Aucoin specializes in managing complex cases involving a broad spectrum of cancers and blood disorders, focusing on improving patient outcomes and quality of life for adults with suspected or diagnosed conditions.

She graduated with a Medical Degree in 1994 and has over 30 years of experience practicing as a Medical Oncologist and Hematologist. Dr. Aucoin completed extensive post-graduate medical training and is certified in Medical Oncology and Hematology, reflecting her dedication to continuous professional development and expertise in her field. Her long-standing practice is rooted in a thorough understanding of the latest advances in cancer and blood disorder treatments, combined with a compassionate approach tailored to each patient's unique needs.

Dr. Aucoin's clinical philosophy emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based decision-making, and patient-centered care. She is committed to supporting her patients and their families throughout their treatment journey, ensuring they are well-informed and actively involved in their care choices. Fluent in French, she provides accessible communication and support to her diverse patient population in Laval and the surrounding communities, striving to foster trust, comfort, and hope in her practice.

Dr. Nathalie Aucoin has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• Brain & Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumors (Primary & Metastatic - Medical Oncology aspects): Malignant tumors of the brain and spinal cord, where medical oncologists may manage chemotherapy or targeted therapies as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.
• Head and Neck Cancers (Oral Cavity, Pharynx, Larynx - Medical Oncology aspects): Cancers arising in the head and neck region, where medical oncologists manage chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted therapies as part of a multidisciplinary team.

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.
• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): A type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects white blood cells called lymphocytes, common in children but also occurs in adults.

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): An autoimmune disorder characterized by a low number of platelets, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
• Aplastic Anemia & Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes: Rare but serious conditions where the bone marrow doesn't produce enough new blood cells.
• 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. Nathalie Aucoin 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.
• Interpretation of Special Hematologic Tests (e.g., Flow Cytometry, Cytogenetics, Molecular Studies): Analyzing results from advanced laboratory tests crucial for diagnosing and classifying hematologic conditions.
• Peripheral Blood Smear Review & Advanced Cytomorphology: Expert microscopic examination of blood cells to identify abnormalities and aid in diagnosis.
• Cancer Survivorship Care & Long-Term Follow-Up: Developing individualized follow-up care plans for cancer survivors, focusing on surveillance for recurrence, management of late effects of treatment, and promoting wellness.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• Blood Product Transfusion Support & Management of Transfusion Reactions: Overseeing transfusions of red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and managing any adverse reactions.
• Therapeutic Apheresis Consultation (e.g., for TTP, plasma exchange indications): Consultation and coordination for procedures that separate components of blood for therapeutic purposes.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Medical Oncology and Hematology (Cancer and Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Aucoin provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Aucoin 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. Aucoin practices primarily at the Hôpital de la Cité-de-la-Santé, located in the Chomedey North neighborhood of Laval, QC. The hospital is easily accessible via major roads and is well connected to public transit, including the Société de transport de Laval (STL). The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the hospital, providing convenient options for those arriving by car. The hospital's proximity to landmarks such as Place Bell makes it a central and accessible location for patients in the Laval region.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Aucoin, an Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, 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 Medical Oncologist and Hematologist such as Dr. Aucoin 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. Aucoin'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. Aucoin, an Medical Oncologist and Hematologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Medical Oncologist and Hematologist like Dr. Aucoin 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 kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Aucoin?

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. Aucoin and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect you with these valuable resources.

How will treatment decisions be made for my condition by Dr. Aucoin?

Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and made collaboratively. Dr. Aucoin will consider many factors, including the type and stage of your cancer or blood disorder, your overall health, genetic markers of the disease (if applicable), current treatment guidelines, and importantly, your personal preferences and values. Often, cases are discussed in multidisciplinary team meetings (tumor boards) with other specialists to ensure a comprehensive approach. You will be an active participant in this decision-making process.

Hôpital de la Cité-de-la-Santé
1755 boul René-Laënnec
Laval, QC H7M 3L9

Phone: (450) 668-1010

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Aucoin is a licensed Medical Oncologist and Hematologist 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=94298