Dr. Robert Malcolm MacRae – Oncologist / Hematologist | Ottawa, ON

Dr. Robert Malcolm MacRae, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at Southeastern Ontario Regional in Ottawa, ON, he is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive cancer care. His practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring high-quality, ethical, and patient-centered services. Dr. MacRae's expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, aiming to optimize treatment effectiveness while minimizing side effects. He primarily serves adult patients with suspected or diagnosed cancers or blood disorders, leveraging access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment facilities to support optimal patient outcomes.

Dr. MacRae graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 1995 and has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist for over 24 years, since 2000. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation), demonstrating his specialized training and commitment to professional excellence. His extensive clinical experience allows him to provide expert guidance and personalized treatment plans for his patients.

Dedicated to a multidisciplinary approach, Dr. MacRae emphasizes evidence-based treatment, patient and family support, and ongoing research to advance cancer care. He is committed to serving the Ottawa community with compassionate, comprehensive care. Fluent in both English and French, Dr. MacRae ensures clear communication and understanding with his patients and their families.

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

Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated

• Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS): A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy, mature blood cells.
• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid 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.

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.
• 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.
• Sarcomas (Bone & Soft Tissue - Radiation Aspects): Role of radiation therapy in the multidisciplinary management of sarcomas, often used before or after surgery.

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.
• Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs): A diverse group of tumors that arise from cells of the endocrine (hormonal) and nervous systems, treated with various systemic therapies.

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 MacRae or your referring physician.

• 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).
• 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.
• 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.
• External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) - 3D Conformal, IMRT, VMAT: Developing precise, individualized plans for delivering radiation using external machines (e.g., linear accelerators) with techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT).
• 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.
• 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.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. MacRae provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. MacRae 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.

Southeastern Ontario Regional in Ottawa, ON, is situated in the Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, Billings Bridge neighborhood. The practice is conveniently accessible from nearby landmarks such as Lansdowne Park (TD Place Stadium/Arena) and the Centretown Business Area. Public transit options include OC Transpo services, including the O-Train LRT and bus routes, making the facility easily reachable for patients across the region. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and paid parking options are close by to facilitate convenient access for those arriving by car.

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. MacRae 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 happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. MacRae?

After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. MacRae 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.

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

What are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. MacRae 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. MacRae 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.

Southeastern Ontario Regional
501 Smyth Road, Cancer Centre
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6

Phone: (613) 737-7700 | Fax: (613) 247-3511

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. MacRae is a licensed Radiation Oncologist 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/MacRae-Robert-Malcolm/0057408-68996