Alberta Thoracic Oncology Program
The ATOP program aims to offer rapid, state of the art, multidisciplinary evaluation of patients with suspected chest malignancies in and around Calgary and Southern Alberta.
ATOP Clinic Services
All patient referrals received by ATOP are reviewed by dedicated Nurse Practitioners who initiate intake of information and preliminary evaluation of patients.
An optimal diagnosis and staging plan for our patients is determined as well as preliminary therapeutic plans discussed including involvement in clinical trials, in collaboration with the Thoracic Surgery and Lung Tumour Group oncologists.
Patients have full access to all lung cancer diagnostic and staging modalities including standard radiology, bronchoscopy with transbronchial needle aspiration of mediastinal lymph nodes (with endobronchial ultrasound), CT guided transthoracic needle aspiration, mediastinoscopy, PET scanning, fine needle aspiration of superficial lymph nodes, thoracentesis, closed needle pleural biopsy and thoracoscopy.
As well, expedited pre-op evaluation of pulmonary function with full pulmonary physiologic testing, differential VQ scanning and cardiopulmonary exercise testing are readily available.
This clinic would not be possible without the support of Alberta Health Services, the Cancer Care Strategic Clinical Network, and Cancer Control Alberta.
Meet our Nurse Practitioners
"At the heart of the Alberta Thoracic Oncology Program, our Nurse Practitioners stand as pillars of dedication and compassion. Their unwavering commitment to the patients in our referral program goes beyond the conventional. Their tireless efforts form an indispensable cornerstone of our program, ensuring that each patient receives not only medical excellence but a compassionate ally throughout their challenging path."
Lauren Richardson
Introducing Lauren Richardson, who will be joining the ATOP team as a Nurse Practitioner July 31, 2025. Lauren brings nearly 14 years of healthcare experience, including extensive work as an RN in operating rooms with a strong background in thoracic surgery. She recently completed her Master of Nursing – Nurse Practitioner at the University of Toronto, with clinical placements in oncology, cardiac surgery, and neurosurgery. She’s passionate about quality improvement and excited to contribute to our team.
Catherine Doetzel
Catherine is an Adult Nurse Practitioner with the Alberta Thoracic Oncology Program, receiving her Masters of Nursing and Nurse Practitioner credentials through the University of Calgary in 2015. Her Masters of Nursing focus was advanced nursing care in the emergency department, with a published manuscript in 2016. She previously worked as a Registered Nurse in cardiology and emergency departments both overseas and within Calgary. Catherine grew up on a farm in rural Alberta, and continues to help with the family run operation when able. Catherine and her husband, Brendan, enjoy travelling around the world exploring new countries and cultures.