About
Dr. Sarah Perry 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, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing comprehensive hematology (blood disorders) care. Her practice adheres to the highest standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA). She addresses a wide array of benign and malignant hematologic disorders, offering both diagnostic expertise and therapeutic interventions, ensuring patients receive personalized and hopeful care for their conditions.
Dr. Perry graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Calgary in 2014. She completed extensive post-graduate training in Hematology (Blood Disorders), acquiring specialized skills in diagnosing and treating complex blood conditions. Her certification from recognized medical boards reflects her dedication to maintaining a high standard of clinical excellence and ongoing professional development in her field.
Her clinical philosophy centers on multidisciplinary care, evidence-based treatment approaches, and patient and family support. Dr. Perry is dedicated to advancing research in hematology and providing compassionate, patient-centered care to adults with suspected or diagnosed blood disorders or cancers. She speaks fluent English and is committed to fostering a hopeful and supportive environment for her patients in Calgary, emphasizing clear communication and collaborative decision-making.
Dr. Sarah Perry has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia: A rare type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by an overproduction of a protein called macroglobulin.
- Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the lymphatic system, part of the immune system, characterized by the presence of Reed-Sternberg cells.
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells.
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.
- Vitamin B12 & Folate Deficiency Anemias: Anemias resulting from a lack of vitamin B12 or folate, essential for red blood cell formation.
- 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. Sarah Perry or your referring physician.
- Bone Marrow Aspiration & Biopsy (Performance or Interpretation): Performing or interpreting samples from bone marrow aspirations and biopsies to diagnose blood disorders and cancers.
- 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.
- Management of Clotting Disorders / Thrombophilia (Inherited & Acquired): Diagnosis, anticoagulation therapy, and long-term management for conditions predisposing to abnormal blood clots (e.g., DVT, PE, Factor V Leiden, Antiphospholipid Syndrome).
- Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
- Neutropenia & Other White Blood Cell Disorders Evaluation: Investigating and managing low or abnormal white blood cell counts, increasing susceptibility to infections.
- Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Hematology (Blood Disorders). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Perry provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Perry 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. Perry practices at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department located in Calgary’s NE neighborhoods, including Falconridge, Coral Springs, and Castleridge. The facility is conveniently situated near landmarks such as The Bow Tower and Telus Sky, making it accessible for patients. Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT) services the area, providing easy public transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the location, supporting patient convenience and timely appointments.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Perry, 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. Perry 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. Perry'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. Perry, an Hematologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Hematologist like Dr. Perry 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. Perry?
- After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Perry 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 can I expect at my first appointment with an Oncologist/Hematologist?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Perry 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. She 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. Perry 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 kind of supportive care is available during cancer or hematology treatment with Dr. Perry?
- Supportive care is a crucial part of treatment, aiming to manage symptoms, reduce side effects, improve quality of life, and address emotional and practical needs. This can include effective pain and symptom management, nutritional support and counseling, psychological support (counseling, therapy), social work services for practical and emotional support, physiotherapy or occupational therapy, access to patient support groups, and spiritual care. Dr. Perry and the healthcare team at affiliated hospitals or cancer centres can connect you with these valuable resources.
- What is immunotherapy and how does it work for cancer?
- Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that helps your own immune system fight cancer. It works by boosting or changing how the immune system works so it can find and attack cancer cells more effectively. There are different types of immunotherapy, including checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, and cancer vaccines. Dr. Perry may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.
- What is palliative care, and when might Dr. Perry 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. Perry 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.
3500 26 Ave NE
Calgary, AB T1Y 6J4
Phone: (403) 943-4650
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Perry 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=26422a78-2900-4cd8-a458-9fcf2ab6443a&i=1151