Dr. Alex Lai Chi Tam – Ophthalmologist | Kingston, ON

Dr. Alex Lai Chi Tam is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at St. Michael's Hospital in Kingston, ON, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. His practice is aligned with the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring that every patient receives safe, evidence-based treatment. As a comprehensive ophthalmologist, Dr. Tam offers a full spectrum of services from routine eye examinations and vision correction to the management of complex eye diseases and surgical interventions. The clinic provides a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Toronto (Canada) and has been practicing as an Ophthalmologist since 2023, bringing over a year of specialized experience to his practice. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his extensive training and expertise in the field of eye health. His professional development includes ongoing education in the latest ophthalmic techniques and technologies, ensuring patients benefit from current best practices.

Dr. Tam's professional philosophy emphasizes preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. He is dedicated to educating patients about their eye health and involving them in treatment decisions. Utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, he aims for precise and effective treatments. His focus on early detection and management of eye diseases helps prevent vision loss, and he collaborates with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive patient care. He offers all patient communication and care in English and is committed to maintaining a patient-centered approach in Kingston.

Dr. Alex Tam provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

Dr. Tam addresses common eye conditions where the eye does not bend (refract) light properly, leading to blurred vision.

• Candidates for Refractive Surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK, ICL): Evaluation of individuals interested in surgical procedures to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
• Presbyopia: A natural part of the aging process of the eye.
• Myopia (Nearsightedness): Corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK).

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Tam addresses primary treatment involves surgical removal of the cataract and implantation of an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

• Age-Related Cataracts: Surgical removal and lens implant is a highly effective treatment.
• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Can significantly impact visual development and requires prompt surgical intervention if visually significant.
• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Treated with a quick and painless YAG laser capsulotomy procedure.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. Tam addresses early detection and lifelong management are crucial to preserving sight.

• Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Glaucoma that develops as a result of another medical condition, eye injury, medication use (like steroids), or previous eye surgery.
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Diagnosis can be challenging.
• Congenital or Childhood Glaucoma: Symptoms can include excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and an enlarged cloudy cornea.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. Alex Tam is necessary.

• Cataract Evaluation and Surgical Management: Comprehensive assessment for cataracts, including vision testing and evaluation of lens opacity.
• Comprehensive Adult and Pediatric Eye Examinations: Baseline evaluations and routine check-ups for maintaining optimal eye health.
• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Offering premium IOL options designed to reduce dependence on glasses after cataract surgery.
• Medical Management of Glaucoma (Prescription Eye Drops): Regular follow-up to assess treatment efficacy and side effects.
• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Guidance on lens options and proper eye care for lens wearers.
• Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Conditions: Evaluation and treatment plans for a wide range of eye problems including dry eyes, conjunctivitis, styes, and foreign body removal.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. Tam.

All ophthalmology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. A referral from a physician or optometrist may be required for consultation.

Dr. Tam practices primarily within St. Michael's Hospital, located in Kingston's vibrant Downtown Kingston area, near Queen's University. The clinic is situated in the Sydenham Ward neighborhood, close to Confederation Park, making it easily accessible via Kingston Transit. The eye clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a professional and welcoming environment for comprehensive eye care. Parking is typically available near the facility, with some accessible spots for patients with mobility needs. The location offers convenient access for residents of Kingston and surrounding communities seeking expert ophthalmic services.

Are services from Dr. Tam covered by provincial health insurance?

Medically necessary services provided by an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Tam, such as the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases (e.g., glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy) and medically indicated surgeries (e.g., cataract surgery), are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). However, routine eye exams for adults of certain age groups without specific medical conditions, and procedures considered cosmetic (like elective refractive surgery or some eyelid procedures) are typically not covered. It's advisable to confirm coverage details with Dr. Tam's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Medically necessary eye exams and treatments for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Routine eye exams for glasses/contacts for adults (usually ages 19-64) may not be covered unless a specific medical condition affecting the eyes is present. Elective procedures such as cosmetic eyelid surgery or refractive laser surgery (LASIK/PRK) are generally not covered. It is recommended to verify coverage specifics with Dr. Tam's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Tam specialize in?

Dr. Tam is an Ophthalmologist, a physician with extensive training in all aspects of eye health. He provides complete eye exams, diagnoses conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal diseases, and can perform complex eye surgeries. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

Does Dr. Tam perform cataract surgery?

Most Ophthalmologists, including Dr. Tam, are highly experienced in performing cataract surgery. This outpatient procedure is very effective in improving vision affected by cataracts. Dr. Tam would assess the severity of your cataracts and determine if surgery is the best course of action for you.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Tam?

Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Tam for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Tam's office or seek emergency eye care as appropriate, as referral requirements may differ in emergencies. Please have your doctor's office or optometrist contact Dr. Tam's clinic for referral instructions.

What are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. Tam?

Dr. Tam treats a wide array of eye conditions. Common ones include refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism), cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and eyelid disorders. Depending on any subspecialty training, he may also manage more complex retinal, corneal, or neuro-ophthalmic conditions. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

How does Dr. Tam treat glaucoma?

Dr. Tam manages glaucoma with the goal of lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatment options may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy (like SLT or LPI), or surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage devices, or Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). The specific approach depends on the type and severity of glaucoma.

St. Michael's Hospital
166 Brock St, Department of Psychiatry
Kingston, ON K7L 5G2

Office Phone: (613) 548-6121

Dr. Tam is a licensed Ophthalmologist 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 optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Tam, particularly for services covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Verify Dr. Tam's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Tam-Alex-Lai-Chi/0325174-115567