Dr. Sofia Genta – Oncologist / Hematologist | Kingston, ON

Dr. Sofia Genta, a Medical Oncologist, specializes in using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted agents to treat a wide range of cancers. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Kingston, ON, she is part of a dedicated healthcare team committed to providing compassionate and innovative cancer care. The practice centers on the use of cutting-edge systemic therapies for adult solid tumors, offering hope and personalized treatment options to patients facing cancer diagnoses. Dr. Genta's approach emphasizes patient-centered care, aiming to improve outcomes and quality of life through advanced diagnostic and therapeutic facilities.

She graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Turin in Italy in 2013 and has been practicing as a Medical Oncologist for over one year since 2023. Dr. Genta is certified as a CPSO Recognized Specialist in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies), ensuring her adherence to the highest standards of clinical excellence and professional ethics in Ontario.

Her clinical philosophy is rooted in multidisciplinary collaboration, evidence-based treatment, and supporting patients and their families throughout their cancer journey. She is dedicated to providing comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Fluent in English, Dr. Genta is committed to fostering open communication and trust with her patients in Kingston and surrounding communities.

Dr. Sofia Genta has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:

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.
• 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.
• Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.

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. Sofia Genta or your referring physician.

• 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.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
• Management of Treatment-Related Side Effects & Toxicities: Proactive and reactive strategies to manage side effects of cancer therapies, including nausea, fatigue, myelosuppression, and neuropathy.
• Integration with Palliative & Supportive Oncology Services: Collaborative care focusing on optimal symptom management, pain control, and psychosocial support throughout the cancer journey.
• Treatment of Various Solid Tumors: Specialized care for a wide range of cancers such as breast, lung (NSCLC, SCLC), colorectal, prostate, melanoma, ovarian, uterine, cervical, bladder, kidney, pancreatic, stomach, esophageal, head & neck (non-surgical aspects), brain tumors (non-surgical aspects), and sarcomas.
• Adjuvant, Neoadjuvant, & Metastatic/Palliative Systemic Therapy: Developing treatment plans given before (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant) primary local treatment (like surgery or radiation) to improve outcomes, or for managing advanced/metastatic cancer to control disease and improve quality of life.
• Performance Status Assessment & Treatment Eligibility Evaluation: Evaluating a patient's overall fitness and ability to tolerate specific anti-cancer treatments.

Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Medical Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Systemic Therapies). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Genta provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Genta 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. Genta practices at a specialized cancer centre located within a hospital in Kingston, ON, situated in the vibrant Downtown Kingston, Queen's University Area, Sydenham Ward neighbourhood. The facility is conveniently near Confederation Park and is accessible via Kingston Transit, making it easy for patients to reach. The building is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and paid parking options are close by for added convenience. The location offers a welcoming environment where patients can access advanced diagnostic tools and comprehensive cancer treatments in a comfortable setting.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Genta, an Medical 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 Medical Oncologist such as Dr. Genta 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. Genta'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. Genta, an Medical Oncologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Medical Oncologist like Dr. Genta 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 are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Genta 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. Genta 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 does an Oncologist and/or Hematologist like Dr. Genta 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. Genta has expertise in medical oncology, focusing on systemic treatments for solid tumors, and may also have experience in hematology, providing comprehensive care for various cancers and blood conditions.

What is Radiation Oncology and when is it used?

Radiation Oncology is a medical specialty that uses high-energy radiation (like X-rays, gamma rays, or charged particles) to damage or destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. It can be used as a primary treatment, before surgery (neoadjuvant), after surgery (adjuvant), or in combination with chemotherapy. It can also be used for palliative care to relieve symptoms. Dr. Genta may specialize in planning and delivering radiation therapy using techniques like EBRT, IMRT, SBRT, or brachytherapy, or may refer patients to a Radiation Oncologist if this treatment is indicated for their type of cancer as part of a multidisciplinary care plan.

Why might I need a bone marrow biopsy, and what does it involve if Dr. Genta 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. Genta 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.

What can I expect at my first appointment with an Oncologist/Hematologist?

Your first appointment with Dr. Genta 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. Genta will explain the proposed treatment plan, including goals, benefits, potential side effects, duration, and what to expect moving forward. Further tests may be ordered.

25 King St W
Kingston, ON K7L 5P9

Phone: (613) 548-3232

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Genta is a licensed Medical 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/Genta-Sofia/0330775-122369