Dr. Nathaniel Bouganim – Oncologist / Hematologist | Montréal, QC

Dr. Nathaniel Bouganim, a Medical Oncologist, specializes in using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted agents to treat a wide range of cancers. Practicing at the Centre for Specialized Medicine (CUSM) in Montréal, QC, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive cancer care. His practice centers on the use of cutting-edge systemic therapies for adult solid tumors, aiming to offer hope and personalized treatment options to each patient. The practice adheres strictly to the standards set by the Collège des médecins du Québec (CMQ), ensuring high-quality and ethical medical care.

Graduating with a Medical Degree in 2011, Dr. Bouganim has over 13 years of experience practicing as a Medical Oncologist since then. He has completed extensive postgraduate medical training and certification in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies), equipping him with the latest knowledge and skills in the field. His dedication to continuous learning ensures that patients benefit from the most current evidence-based treatments available.

Dr. Bouganim’s clinical philosophy emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based decision-making, and compassionate patient-centered care. He is committed to supporting his patients and their families through every stage of their cancer journey, providing clear communication, hope, and tailored treatment plans. Fluent in French, he strives to make his care accessible and understandable for all his patients in Montréal, fostering a trusting and supportive environment.

Dr. Nathaniel Bouganim 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.
• Colorectal Cancer (Colon & Rectal Cancer): Cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, often managed with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation (for rectal), and targeted therapies.
• 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.

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. Nathaniel Bouganim or your referring physician.

• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
• Integration with Palliative & Supportive Oncology Services: Collaborative care focusing on optimal symptom management, pain control, and psychosocial support throughout the cancer journey.
• Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, & Metastatic/Palliative Systemic Therapy: Developing treatment plans given before (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) primary local treatment (like surgery or radiation) to improve outcomes, or for managing advanced/metastatic cancer to control disease and improve quality of life.
• Treatment of Various Solid Tumors: Specialized care for a wide range of cancers such as breast, lung (NSCLC, SCLC), colorectal, prostate, melanoma, ovarian, uterine, cervical, bladder, kidney, pancreatic, stomach, esophageal, head & neck (non-surgical aspects), brain tumors (non-surgical aspects), and sarcomas.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• 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).
• Management of Treatment-Related Side Effects & Toxicities: Proactive and reactive strategies to manage side effects of cancer therapies, including nausea, fatigue, myelosuppression, and neuropathy.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Bouganim provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Bouganim 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. Bouganim practices at the Centre for Specialized Medicine (CUSM), located in the vibrant Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG) Central neighbourhood of Montréal. The facility is conveniently situated near the Mont-Royal Metro Station Area and Plateau Mont-Royal Shopping & Dining districts, making it easily accessible by public transit. The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) provides multiple options including métro and bus routes. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by car, offering additional convenience for patients and visitors.

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Medical Oncologist like Dr. Bouganim 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 does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Bouganim 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. Bouganim has expertise in Medical Oncology, focusing on systemic treatments for solid tumors.

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. Bouganim can explain if targeted therapy is an option for your cancer.

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

Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and made collaboratively. Dr. Bouganim 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.

What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Bouganim?

After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Bouganim 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.

Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Bouganim 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. Bouganim 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 kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Bouganim?

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

CUSM
1001 boul Décarie
Montréal, QC H4A 3J1

Phone: (514) 934-1934 | Fax: (514) 843-1417

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Bouganim is a licensed Medical 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=11163