Dr. Rochelle Seleen Jalbert Wacholtz – Oncologist / Hematologist | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Rochelle Seleen Jalbert Wacholtz 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 Kelowna, BC, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. She adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, safe, and ethical medical practice. Her role involves addressing a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Saskatchewan in 2015.0 (Canada) and completed extensive postgraduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders). She holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining excellence in her specialty. Her training has equipped her with the latest knowledge and skills necessary for advanced blood disorder diagnosis and treatment.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes multidisciplinary care, evidence-based treatment modalities, and patient and family-centered support. Dedicated to serving the Kelowna community, she strives to deliver personalized care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz speaks English fluently and is committed to fostering open communication with her patients, ensuring they are well-informed and actively involved in their care journey.

Dr. Rochelle Jalbert Wacholtz has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

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.
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) / Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (SLL): A type of cancer that starts from white blood cells (lymphocytes) in the bone marrow, typically slow-growing.
• Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.

Benign Hematologic (Non-Cancerous Blood) Disorders Managed

• Sickle Cell Disease & Thalassemia Syndromes: Inherited disorders affecting the structure or production of hemoglobin, leading to various complications.
• Aplastic Anemia & Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes: Rare but serious conditions where the bone marrow doesn't produce enough new blood cells.
• Hereditary Hemochromatosis & Other Iron Overload States: Genetic or acquired conditions leading to excessive iron accumulation in the body, requiring management to prevent organ damage.

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. Rochelle Jalbert Wacholtz 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.
• Diagnosis & Management of Multiple Myeloma, Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia & Other Plasma Cell Dyscrasias: Specialized care for cancers arising from plasma cells, utilizing novel agents, chemotherapy, and supportive care, including stem cell transplant coordination.
• Diagnosis & Multimodal Management of Leukemias (AML, ALL, CLL, CML, Hairy Cell): Comprehensive care for various types of leukemia, including diagnostic workup (bone marrow interpretation, cytogenetics, molecular testing), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and coordination for stem cell transplant where indicated.
• 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.
• 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).

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz 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. Jalbert Wacholtz practices at a specialized cancer centre situated within a hospital department in Kelowna’s vibrant Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, and Downtown neighborhoods. The facility is conveniently located near landmarks such as Orchard Park Mall Area and Mission Creek Regional Park, making it accessible for patients from various parts of the city. Public transit options are available via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring easy access for those using buses. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available on-site for patients and visitors, facilitating a comfortable and accommodating environment for all.

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz 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. Jalbert Wacholtz 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. Jalbert Wacholtz 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.

Does Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz 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. Jalbert Wacholtz 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 her about any available trials at her institution or through research networks to determine suitability.

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 performed to assess if targeted therapy is appropriate. Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz can explain if this treatment option is suitable for your cancer.

How will treatment decisions be made for my condition by Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz?

Treatment decisions in oncology and hematology are highly personalized and involve shared decision-making. Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz considers factors such as the type and stage of your disease, your overall health, genetic markers if applicable, current clinical guidelines, and your personal values and preferences. Often, multidisciplinary team discussions (tumor boards) help develop the best treatment plan. You will be actively involved in this process.

How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz?

Cancer and complex blood disorder care involve a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, and others. These teams hold regular meetings to review cases and coordinate treatment plans, ensuring comprehensive and seamless care. Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz collaborates within this team to provide holistic management tailored to each patient.

What is immunotherapy and how does it work for cancer?

Immunotherapy is a treatment approach that helps your own immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It can involve checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, or vaccines, depending on the cancer type. Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz may recommend immunotherapy if it is appropriate for your diagnosis, and she will explain how it works and what to expect during treatment.

202-2900 Pandosy St
Kelowna, BC V1Y 1V9

Phone: (250) 869-0210 | Fax: (250) 869-0211

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Jalbert Wacholtz 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/370099/Jalbert%20Wacholtz%2CRochelle