Dr. Richard Ward – Oncologist / Hematologist | Toronto, ON

Dr. Richard Ward is a Hematologist focused on diagnosing and managing a spectrum of blood disorders, from anemias and clotting issues to blood cancers. Practicing at Humber River Hospital in Toronto, ON, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care. As a licensed physician under the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), with license number 89247, he adheres to the highest standards of medical practice. Dr. Ward specializes in evaluating and treating both benign and malignant hematologic conditions, offering expert diagnostic services and personalized therapeutic interventions. His patient-centered approach aims to foster hope and confidence in every individual facing complex blood disorders.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of London in 2000 in the United Kingdom. With over 7 years of experience practicing as a Hematologist since 2017, Dr. Ward has developed a deep expertise in blood disorder management. He is certified as a CPSO Recognized Specialist in Hematology (Blood Disorders), ensuring his practice aligns with the latest clinical guidelines and standards. His extensive training and certification enable him to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Dr. Ward is dedicated to providing multidisciplinary, patient-focused care that emphasizes evidence-based treatments, patient and family support, and ongoing medical research. He is committed to improving health outcomes for adults with suspected or diagnosed cancer or blood disorders. Fluent in English, he values clear communication and strives to empower his patients through education and compassionate clinical practice. His goal is to support his patients through every stage of their diagnosis and treatment journey, fostering a hopeful outlook and a sense of partnership in care.

Dr. Richard Ward has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• 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.
• Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells.

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• 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.
• Hereditary Hemochromatosis & Other Iron Overload States: Genetic or acquired conditions leading to excessive iron accumulation in the body, requiring management to prevent organ damage.
• Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP): An autoimmune disorder characterized by a low number of platelets, leading to an increased risk of bleeding.

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. Richard Ward or your referring physician.

• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• 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.
• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
• Neutropenia & Other White Blood Cell Disorders Evaluation: Investigating and managing low or abnormal white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infections.
• 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).
• Diagnosis & Treatment of Lymphomas (Hodgkin & Various Non-Hodgkin Subtypes): Tailored treatment strategies for cancers of the lymphatic system, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted agents, and radiotherapy coordination.
• 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 Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Ward provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Ward 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 Ontario (CPSO) and relevant cancer care guidelines. A referral is required.

Humber River Hospital, situated in the vibrant Bay Street Corridor (Discovery District) neighborhood of Toronto, ON, is the primary facility where Dr. Ward practices. The hospital is conveniently located near notable landmarks such as the Gooderham Building (Flatiron), making it accessible for patients. The site is well-connected by public transit, including the TTC subway, streetcar, and bus services, facilitating easy access from various parts of Toronto. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring barrier-free entry for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by personal vehicle, providing additional convenience for visitors.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Ward, an Hematologist, covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

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. Ward are generally covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON 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 Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), Dr. Ward'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. Ward, an Hematologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Ward 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 is palliative care, and when might Dr. Ward 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. Ward 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. Ward 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. Ward 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.

Humber River Hospital
200 Elizabeth Street
Toronto, ON M5G 2C4

Phone: (416) 340-5233 | Fax: (416) 340-3799

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Ward is a licensed Hematologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. 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 Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Ward-Richard/0169267-89247