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."
Laura Hampton
Laura Hampton grew up in the local area of Alberta. Her Undergraduate and Graduate training as a nurse practitioner was completed at the University of Calgary. Her career has been revolved around cancer care. Laura joined the Alberta Thoracic Oncology Program in 2012. She resides in Calgary with her husband and two young children. Most of her free time is spent with her family, enjoying fitness, activities, and walking her two energetic dogs.
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.
Melanie Burke
Melanie Burke is a Nurse Practitioner with the Alberta Thoracic Oncology Program. Melanie earned a Master of Nursing degree along with a Post-Master’s Nurse Practitioner Diploma from the University of Calgary in 2012. Melanie has garnered expertise in hematology, oncology, and geriatrics throughout her career. Outside of her professional pursuits, Melanie finds fulfillment in family life. She shares a bustling household with her husband, Rob, and their three young children. Together, they embrace the wonders of the great outdoors, frequently embarking on adventures and indulging in various outdoor activities.