Dr. Wei Liu, a Radiation Oncologist, utilizes advanced radiation therapies to treat various forms of cancer, working as part of a multidisciplinary team. Practicing at a specialized cancer centre within a hospital department in Vancouver, BC, he is committed to providing patient-centered and hopeful care. His practice is grounded in the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that every patient receives safe, effective, and compassionate treatment. Dr. Liu’s expertise includes the precise planning and delivery of radiation therapy for a variety of cancer types, focusing on achieving optimal outcomes while minimizing side effects. His approach emphasizes tailored treatment plans that address each patient’s unique condition and needs, with access to state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic facilities as a key component of his care.
Dr. Liu graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Western Ontario in 2017, completing extensive post-graduate training in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). He holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, which affirm his professional qualifications and dedication to excellence in cancer care. His training has equipped him with the latest knowledge and skills to serve adult patients with suspected or diagnosed cancers and blood disorders, offering hope and evidence-based treatment options.
With a strong commitment to multidisciplinary care, Dr. Liu believes in integrating the latest research findings into clinical practice to provide innovative and effective treatments. He is dedicated to supporting his patients and their families throughout their cancer journey, ensuring they are well-informed and comforted every step of the way. Fluency in English allows him to communicate clearly and compassionately, fostering a trusting relationship with his patients in Vancouver.
Dr. Wei Liu has expertise in managing a wide range of conditions, including:
Hematologic Malignancies (Blood Cancers) Treated
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A rapidly progressing cancer of the blood and bone marrow affecting myeloid cells.
- Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells, a type of white blood cell in the bone marrow that produces antibodies, leading to bone damage and other complications.
- 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 Cancers (Solid Tumors) Treated
- 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.
- Prostate Cancer: Cancer developing in the prostate gland in men, with treatment options including hormone therapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or active surveillance.
- Gastrointestinal Cancers (Esophageal, Stomach, Pancreatic, Liver, Biliary): A group of cancers affecting the digestive system organs, each requiring specific diagnostic and multidisciplinary treatment approaches including systemic therapies.
Common Areas/Cancers Treated with Radiation Oncology
- Head & Neck Cancers (e.g., Laryngeal, Pharyngeal, Oral Cavity): Utilizing radiation therapy as a primary treatment, or in conjunction with surgery and/or chemotherapy for cancers of the head and neck region.
- Palliative Radiation for Symptom Relief (e.g., Bone Metastases, Spinal Cord Compression): Using radiation therapy to alleviate pain, control bleeding, or relieve pressure caused by advanced cancer.
- Sarcomas (Bone & Soft Tissue - Radiation Aspects): Role of radiation therapy in the multidisciplinary management of sarcomas, often used before or after surgery.
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. Wei Liu or your referring physician.
- Palliative Radiation Therapy for Symptom Control: Using radiation to alleviate pain, bleeding, or obstruction caused by cancer.
- Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation (PCI): Preventative radiation treatment to the brain for certain cancers at high risk of brain metastases.
- Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation - LDR/HDR) for Specific Cancers: Planning and performing procedures where radioactive sources are placed directly into or near a tumor (e.g., for prostate, cervical, breast cancer).
- Second Opinion Consultations for Cancer & Blood Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed decision-making.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview of services offered in Radiation Oncology (Cancer Treatment with Radiation). Treatment plans are highly individualized. Dr. Liu provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive care options tailored to each patient's specific condition and needs. Please discuss with Dr. Liu 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. Liu practices at a specialized cancer centre located in the vibrant Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver, BC. The facility is situated within a hospital department that offers comprehensive cancer care services. It is conveniently accessible via public transit, including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The centre is wheelchair accessible to ensure ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at the facility, providing additional convenience for those arriving by car. The location is close to notable landmarks such as Kitsilano Beach and the bustling Shopping & Dining Districts, making it an ideal setting for patients seeking expert cancer treatment in a welcoming environment.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Liu, an Radiation Oncologist, 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 Radiation Oncologist such as Dr. Liu 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. Liu'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. Liu, an Radiation Oncologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see an Radiation Oncologist like Dr. Liu 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 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. Liu may recommend immunotherapy if it's an appropriate option for your type of cancer and will explain how it works and what to expect.
- How is cancer care typically coordinated when seeing Dr. Liu?
- Cancer care and complex hematology care often involve a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of specialists working together. This team may include medical oncologists like Dr. Liu, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, specialized oncology nurses, pharmacists, social workers, dietitians, genetic counselors, and palliative care specialists. Regular team meetings (often called tumor boards or MDT meetings) usually occur to discuss individual patient cases and develop comprehensive, coordinated treatment plans. Dr. Liu works collaboratively within this team to ensure you receive holistic and well-managed care.
- What are common side effects of chemotherapy, and how does Dr. Liu 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. Liu 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.
600 W 10TH Ave, Room 4328, BC Cancer Vancouver, Division of Radiation Oncology
Vancouver, BC V5Z 4E6
Phone: (604) 877-6000
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Liu is a licensed Radiation Oncologist 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/375329/Liu%2CWei