Dr. Shawn Christopher Malone, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at St Michael's Hospital 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). Dr. Malone's expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, ensuring individualized treatment strategies designed to optimize outcomes and quality of life for his patients.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in 1989 and has been practicing as a Radiation Oncologist for over 30 years, since 1994. He is certified as a RCPSC Specialist in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation), reflecting his extensive training and commitment to professional excellence in this specialized field.
Dr. Malone is dedicated to providing patient-centered care through a multidisciplinary approach, integrating evidence-based treatments with compassionate support. He is committed to advancing cancer research and education to enhance treatment options and outcomes. Serving the Ottawa community, he speaks English fluently and strives to support each patient with clarity, empathy, and the highest standards of medical practice.
Dr. Shawn Malone 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.
- 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.
Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Tumors (Brain & Spine): Employing precise radiation techniques to treat benign and malignant tumors of the brain and spinal cord.
- 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.
- Breast Cancer (Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, Palliative Radiation): Applying radiation after lumpectomy or mastectomy to reduce recurrence risk, or to treat metastatic disease.
Common Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- Colorectal Cancer (Colon & Rectal Cancer): Cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, often managed with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation (for rectal), and targeted therapies.
- Sarcomas (Bone & Soft Tissue - Systemic Therapy): Rare cancers arising from connective tissues, where medical oncologists administer chemotherapy or targeted therapies for advanced or metastatic disease.
- 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.
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. Shawn Malone or your referring physician.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.
- 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.
- Palliative Radiation Therapy for Symptom Control: Using radiation to alleviate pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by cancer.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Malone provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Malone 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.
Dr. Malone practices at the St Michael's Hospital in Ottawa, ON, situated in the vibrant Elmvale Acres, Hawthorne Meadows, and Billings Bridge neighborhoods. The hospital is conveniently located near landmarks such as Embassy Row and Rideau Hall, making it accessible for patients from across the city. The facility is well-connected by public transit, with OC Transpo (O-Train LRT and Bus) services providing easy access. The hospital's campus is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all patients. Metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by car, offering convenient options for visitors.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Malone, 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. Malone 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. Malone'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. Malone, an Radiation Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Malone 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. Malone 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. Malone 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. Malone 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. Malone 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.
- What happens after cancer treatment is completed with Dr. Malone?
- After active cancer treatment finishes, Dr. Malone 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 does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Malone specialize in?
- An Oncologist specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. This can include Medical Oncologists who use systemic treatments like chemotherapy and immunotherapy, Radiation Oncologists who use radiation therapy, and Surgical Oncologists who perform surgery to remove tumors. A Hematologist specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the blood, bone marrow, spleen, and lymph glands; this includes benign conditions like anemia and bleeding disorders, as well as malignant conditions (blood cancers) like leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Dr. Malone has expertise in radiation oncology, focusing on the use of radiation to treat cancer, providing comprehensive care for various tumors and blood disorders.
- Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Malone 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. Malone 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.
St Michael's Hospital
501 Smyth Road
Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6
Phone: (613) 737-7700
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Malone 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/Malone-Shawn-Christopher/0046775-60753