Dr. Aaron Michael Young – Pulmonologist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Aaron Michael Young is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in Victoria, BC, Dr. Young is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Young is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and upholds the highest professional and ethical standards of medical practice in BC.

Dr. Young serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions as a certified specialist in Respirology (also known as Pulmonology), focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system. The goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for patients with breathing disorders.

Dr. Aaron Michael Young earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 2006. Following this, Dr. Young completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 19 years of specialized practice since 2006, Dr. Young's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Young is dedicated to ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest advancements in respiratory medicine to provide optimal patient care. Key aspects of Dr. Young's medical practice philosophy include: promoting optimal lung function and helping patients achieve the best possible quality of life; a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and lifestyle; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in respiratory care. Dr. Young provides consultations in English.

As a Respirologist, Dr. Aaron Michael Young diagnoses and manages a wide array of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including but not limited to:

Lung Infections

• Pneumonia: Diagnosing and treating infections that inflame the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus (e.g., bacterial, viral, fungal).
• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Respiratory assessment and follow-up for patients undergoing treatment for tuberculosis.

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): Specialized care for a complex form of interstitial lung disease leading to irreversible lung damage.
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Diagnosing and treating lung inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled organic dusts, molds, or chemicals.

Airway Diseases

• Emphysema: Managing this lung condition where the air sacs (alveoli) are damaged and enlarged, causing breathlessness.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Treating progressive lung diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems.
• Chronic Bronchitis: A component of COPD, managed with strategies to reduce airway inflammation and improve mucus clearance.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Young, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Referral: Advocating for participation in structured exercise and education programs tailored for individuals with respiratory conditions.
• Management of Pneumonia and Lung Infections: Diagnosis and treatment of various lung infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal pneumonia, and coordination of follow-up care.
• Inhaler Technique and Respiratory Device Training: Providing detailed instruction and education on the correct use of various inhalers, nebulizers, and other respiratory devices.
• Bronchiectasis Management: Diagnosis and long-term management of bronchiectasis, focusing on airway clearance techniques, infection control, and symptom management.
• COPD Management and Education: Developing strategies to slow disease progression, manage flare-ups, and enhance daily functioning for COPD patients.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Young. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any test or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation or speak with your referring physician.

All services by Dr. Aaron Michael Young adhere to the scope of practice for Respirologists in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Aaron Michael Young's practice, the primary aim is to work collaboratively with you to manage your respiratory condition effectively, improve your breathing, and enhance your overall quality of life. Dr. Young frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• For those affected by unexplained weight loss combined with a persistent cough, Dr. Young provides solutions that lead to quitting smoking and improving their overall lung health outlook. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to taking deep, satisfying breaths more often.
• Numerous patients have successfully addressed needing help to quit smoking and improve their lung health with Dr. Young's dedicated support and clinical expertise. This often leads directly to feeling more confident in managing their respiratory condition day-to-day and the restored ability to fully participate in and enjoy reducing their reliance on rescue inhalers due to better baseline control once more.
• The journey from feeling short of breath much of the time, even with little activity to wellness often involves Dr. Young's dedicated care. The milestone is learning effective techniques to manage their breathing and clear their airways, which opens the door back to activities such as their child being able to keep up with peers during play and sports.
• Many patients schedule a consultation with Dr. Young when they first notice their child having persistent coughing, wheezing, or frequent respiratory illnesses. Through personalized respiratory care, the goal is to achieve an improved overall quality of life despite living with a chronic lung condition, enabling them to once again enjoy feeling more energetic and less fatigued during the day without hesitation.

Your personalized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Young, will be tailored to address your specific respiratory needs and health goals. Dr. Young is dedicated to providing expert care and empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to achieve their best possible respiratory health.

Dr. Young's respiratory clinic in Victoria is situated in the Fairfield East, Oaklands neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the Coho/Clipper Ferry Terminals and is easily accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Patient parking is typically available nearby or on-site.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Young at the clinic?

The first visit with Dr. Young will typically involve a comprehensive respiratory assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the nature and timeline of their current respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath, wheezing), how these symptoms impact their daily activities, smoking history, environmental exposures, and any previous treatments. Dr. Young will then perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the respiratory system (listening to the lungs, observing breathing patterns). Any prior imaging (Chest X-rays, CT scans) or test results (like PFTs) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Young will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations (like PFTs, sleep study, or bronchoscopy if needed), and will outline potential treatment options, working with the patient to establish health goals.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Young covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Respirologist like Dr. Young are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic tests like PFTs and bronchoscopies ordered by a specialist are also usually covered. However, some specific treatments, devices (e.g., CPAP machines, some specialized inhalers), or medications may not be fully covered or may have co-payments depending on provincial formularies and private insurance. It's always best for patients to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any.

Can Dr. Young help manage chronic conditions like asthma or COPD?

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Young are experts in the long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis). After a thorough assessment, Dr. Young develops a personalized management plan. This may include prescribing appropriate inhaler medications (relievers and controllers), educating patients on correct inhaler technique, developing action plans for flare-ups, advising on trigger avoidance, recommending smoking cessation programs, and coordinating pulmonary rehabilitation if beneficial. The goal is to optimize symptom control, reduce exacerbations, improve lung function, and enhance overall quality of life.

What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Young recommend them?

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are a group of non-invasive breathing tests that measure how well the lungs are working. They assess lung volume (how much air the lungs can hold), airflow rates (how quickly air can be moved in and out), and gas exchange (how well oxygen moves from the lungs into the blood). Dr. Young might recommend PFTs to help diagnose conditions like asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or to assess the severity of a known lung disease, monitor its progression, or evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. Common PFTs include spirometry, lung volume measurement, and diffusing capacity tests.

Do I typically need a referral to see a Respirologist (Pulmonologist) like Dr. Young?

Yes, in BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Respirologist like Dr. Young for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC. This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Young has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need a respiratory assessment.

What does a Respirologist / Pulmonologist like Dr. Young do?

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Young is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases and conditions of the lungs and respiratory system. This includes conditions like asthma, COPD (emphysema, chronic bronchitis), pneumonia, lung cancer, sleep apnea, interstitial lung diseases, and pleural diseases. Their goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms like shortness of breath and cough, and enhance the quality of life for people with breathing problems. They use various diagnostic tools like pulmonary function tests and bronchoscopy, and treatments including medications, inhalers, oxygen therapy, and management of devices like CPAP machines.

401-2020 Richmond Rd
Victoria, BC, V8R 6R5

Phone: (250) 995-0211

Dr. Aaron Michael Young is a licensed Respirologist in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: 64773

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/330140/Young%2CAaron

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is typically required to see Dr. Young. Dr. Young and the team are dedicated to providing comprehensive respiratory care. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or severe difficulty breathing, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.