Dr. Robert Anton Olson – Oncologist / Hematologist | Prince George, BC

Dr. Robert Anton Olson, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Prince George, BC, he is committed to providing compassionate and precise cancer care. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective treatment tailored to their individual needs. Dr. Olson's expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, focusing on improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Calgary in 2005 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). He holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical practice and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Olson is dedicated to comprehensive, evidence-based cancer care, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach that includes patient and family support. He is fluent in English and actively collaborates with a team of healthcare professionals to ensure personalized treatment plans. His clinical philosophy centers on compassionate communication, advancing research when possible, and providing patients in Prince George with access to state-of-the-art radiation therapy options.

Dr. Robert Olson has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology

• Gynecologic Cancers (e.g., Cervical, Uterine, Vaginal, Vulvar - Radiation Aspects): Application of external beam radiation and/or brachytherapy for cancers of the female reproductive tract.
• Head & Neck Cancers (e.g., Laryngeal, Pharyngeal, Oral Cavity): Utilizing radiation therapy as a primary treatment, or in conjunction with surgery and/or chemotherapy for cancers of the head and neck region.
• Gastrointestinal Cancers (e.g., Rectal, Anal, Pancreatic, Stomach): Role of radiation therapy in managing various cancers of the digestive system, often as part of combined modality treatment.

Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated

• 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.
• Genitourinary Cancers (Bladder, Kidney, Testicular, Penile): Cancers affecting the urinary system (kidneys, bladder) or male reproductive organs (testes, penis), managed with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or targeted agents.
• Ovarian, Uterine (Endometrial), & Cervical Cancers (Gynecologic Oncology - Medical Aspects): Systemic treatment aspects for cancers of the female reproductive system, often in collaboration with gynecologic oncologists or surgeons.

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• 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.
• Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.

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. Robert Olson 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.
• Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) / Stereotactic Ablative Radiotherapy (SABR) / Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): Delivering highly focused, high-dose radiation to precisely targeted tumors or lesions in the brain or body, often in a few treatment sessions.
• Total Body Irradiation (TBI) - Component of Stem Cell Transplant Regimens: Radiation therapy delivered to the entire body, often used as part of the conditioning regimen before a bone marrow or stem cell transplant.
• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
• Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): Utilizing advanced imaging during treatment delivery to precisely target tumors and adapt to changes, while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.
• Palliative Radiation Therapy for Symptom Control: Using radiation to alleviate pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by cancer.
• Radiation Therapy Consultation & Treatment Planning: Comprehensive assessment to determine if radiation therapy is an appropriate treatment modality, followed by meticulous 3D/4D simulation and treatment planning.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Olson provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Olson 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. Olson practices at a specialized cancer centre located in the West Prince George, College Heights neighborhood of Prince George. The facility is situated within a short distance of the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), providing access for patients from the surrounding region. Public transit services, including the Prince George Transit System (BC Transit), are readily available to reach the hospital. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Parking is available at the facility to ensure convenient access for all patients, making it easier for individuals to attend appointments and receive timely care.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Olson, an Radiation Oncologist, 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 Radiation Oncologist such as Dr. Olson 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. Olson'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. Olson, an Radiation Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Olson 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. Olson 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. Olson 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 are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Olson help manage them?

Chemotherapy can cause various side effects, which differ depending on the specific drugs used, the dose, and individual patient factors. Common ones include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, changes in appetite, diarrhea or constipation, and increased risk of infection due to low blood counts. Dr. Olson and the oncology nursing team will discuss potential side effects of your specific treatment plan in detail and will actively work to prevent and manage them with medications (e.g., anti-nausea drugs, growth factors to boost blood counts), supportive care advice (nutrition, hydration, rest), and regular monitoring. Open communication about any side effects you experience is very important for effective management.

1215 Lethbridge St
Prince George, BC V2M 2A2

Phone: (250) 645-7300 | Fax: (250) 645-7361

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Olson is a licensed Radiation Oncologist 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/329376/Olson%2CRobert