Dr. Peter Raymond Duggan – Oncologist / Hematologist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Peter Raymond Duggan 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, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. His practice is aligned with the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). Dr. Duggan addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions. He primarily serves adult patients with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders, ensuring access to advanced diagnostic and treatment facilities as a core component of his care approach.

Dr. Duggan graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Memorial University in 1994, Canada. He completed extensive post-graduate training and certification in Hematology (Blood Disorders), equipping him with specialized skills in this field. His education and training ensure a thorough understanding of complex blood conditions, enabling him to provide expert diagnosis and tailored treatment plans for his patients.

Dedicated to delivering patient-centered care, Dr. Duggan emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatment strategies, and supporting patients and their families throughout the care continuum. He is committed to advancing research in hematology to improve outcomes and offers services exclusively in English. His approach reflects a compassionate and comprehensive philosophy aimed at improving quality of life and health outcomes for those he serves in Calgary.

Dr. Peter Duggan has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

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.
• Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.
• Iron Deficiency Anemia: A common type of anemia caused by insufficient iron, leading to reduced red blood cell production and oxygen-carrying capacity.

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• 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.
• 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.
• Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in the bone marrow that produces antibodies, leading to bone damage and other 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. Peter Duggan or your referring physician.

• Therapeutic Apheresis Consultation (e.g., for TTP, plasma exchange indications): Consultation and coordination for procedures that separate components of blood for therapeutic purposes.
• 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 Bleeding Disorders (Hemophilia, Von Willebrand Disease, Platelet Function Disorders): Care for inherited and acquired conditions that affect the body's ability to form blood clots properly, including factor replacement therapies.
• 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.
• Iron Overload Disorders (e.g., Hereditary Hemochromatosis) Management: Monitoring and treatment, including therapeutic phlebotomy, for conditions of excess iron storage.
• Neutropenia & Other White Blood Cell Disorders Evaluation: Investigating and managing low or abnormal white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infections.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Duggan provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Duggan 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. Duggan practices at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department located in Calgary's NW neighborhoods including Hillhurst, Westmount, and Sunnyside (Kensington). The facility is situated near prominent landmarks such as McMahon Stadium, easily accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). The centre is wheelchair accessible, and paid parking options are close by, ensuring convenience for patients and visitors seeking expert hematology (blood disorders) care in a welcoming environment.

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Duggan 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 will treatment decisions be made for my condition by Dr. Duggan?

Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and made collaboratively. Dr. Duggan 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 is palliative care, and when might Dr. Duggan 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. Duggan 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.

Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Duggan 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. Duggan 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.

Does Dr. Duggan participate in or offer access to clinical trials?

Many oncologists and hematologists are involved in clinical research to advance cancer treatment and care for blood disorders, as participation in clinical trials can offer access to new and investigational treatments. Dr. Duggan is actively involved in clinical trials and may discuss relevant trial options with you if you are eligible and it is appropriate for your condition. You can ask Dr. Duggan if there are any suitable clinical trials available for your condition, either at Dr. Duggan's institution or through collaborative research networks. He can provide information or refer you for consideration.

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

1403 29 St NW, Foothills
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9

Phone: (403) 944-5246 | Fax: (403) 944-1647

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Duggan 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=bec2ebc1-0e70-4b4f-8511-79ea3ce0d0e5&i=401