Dr. Paul Francis Galbraith – Oncologist / Hematologist | Abbotsford, BC

Dr. Paul Francis Galbraith 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 Abbotsford, BC, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. His practice serves adults with suspected or diagnosed blood conditions, ensuring access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities. Dr. Galbraith’s approach emphasizes compassionate, patient-centered care, addressing both medical and emotional needs with expertise and sensitivity.

He graduated with a Medical Doctorate from the University of Manitoba in 1987 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). He holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining high standards of practice and ongoing professional development. His training and credentials underscore his capability to deliver specialized blood disorder treatment aligned with Canadian healthcare standards.

Dr. Galbraith’s clinical philosophy centers on multidisciplinary, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique circumstances. He is dedicated to supporting patients and their families through clear communication, compassionate guidance, and advanced therapeutic options. Fluent in English, he strives to foster a trusting relationship with those in his care, ensuring they feel informed and supported throughout their treatment journey.

Dr. Paul Galbraith has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML): A type of cancer that starts in certain blood-forming cells of the bone marrow, often managed with targeted therapies.
• Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
• Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) (Polycythemia Vera, Essential Thrombocythemia, Myelofibrosis): A group of chronic blood cancers where the bone marrow produces too many red blood cells, white blood cells, or platelets.

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• Aplastic Anemia & Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes: Rare but serious conditions where the bone marrow doesn't produce enough new blood cells.
• Thrombophilia & Acquired Clotting Disorders (e.g., DVT/PE management, Antiphospholipid Syndrome): Conditions that increase the tendency to form blood clots, requiring anticoagulation therapy and management.
• Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.

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. Paul Galbraith or your referring physician.

• Management of Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): Diagnosis and treatment of bone marrow failure disorders, including supportive care, growth factors, and disease-modifying therapies.
• Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
• 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.
• Blood Product Transfusion Support & Management of Transfusion Reactions: Overseeing transfusions of red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and managing any adverse reactions.
• Neutropenia & Other White Blood Cell Disorders Evaluation: Investigating and managing low or abnormal white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infections.
• 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.
• Peripheral Blood Smear Review & Advanced Cytomorphology: Expert microscopic examination of blood cells to identify abnormalities and aid in diagnosis.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Galbraith provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Galbraith 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. Galbraith practices at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department located in the Central Abbotsford, Mill Lake Area neighbourhood of Abbotsford, BC. The facility is situated near Montrose Ave, easily accessible via public transit through the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit). The centre is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby, providing convenient access for patients and visitors. The location is well-positioned to serve the community with comprehensive hematology services in a welcoming and accessible environment.

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Galbraith 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 can I expect at my first appointment with an Oncologist/Hematologist?

Your first appointment with Dr. Galbraith 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. He 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. Galbraith will explain the proposed treatment plan, including goals, benefits, potential side effects, duration, and what to expect moving forward. Further tests may be ordered.

What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Galbraith 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. Galbraith 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.

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

[IF PROVIDER IS PEDIATRIC SPECIALIST:] As a Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist, Dr. Galbraith specializes in these differences. Children's bodies react differently to treatments, and the types of cancers and blood disorders are often distinct from adult conditions. Treatment protocols are specifically designed for pediatric patients, considering their growth and development. Care is family-centered, involving parents and caregivers closely in decision-making and support. [ELSE:] 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.

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. Galbraith, if focused on hematology, can diagnose and manage these conditions.

What does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Galbraith 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. Galbraith has expertise in hematology, focusing on a wide range of blood disorders including anemias, clotting and bleeding conditions, and blood cancers.

32900 Marshall Rd, Abbotsford Centre, BC Cancer Agency
Abbotsford, BC V2S 0C2

Phone: (604) 851-4710 | Fax: (604) 851-4729

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Galbraith 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/305840/Galbraith%2CPaul