Dr. Alistair James Moffat

Dr. Alistair James Moffat provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Joint Muscle Pain

• Mechanical Low Back & Neck Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic - Uncomplicated): Assessment and management of non-specific (mechanical) low back pain and neck pain, which accounts for the majority of spinal pain presentations. This includes taking a thorough history, performing a focused physical examination to rule out 'red flag' conditions (e.g., fracture, infection, malignancy, cauda equina syndrome), providing reassurance about the generally favorable prognosis of acute pain, and advising on pain relief (acetaminophen, NSAIDs, short-term muscle relaxants if severe spasm), maintaining activity as tolerated (avoiding prolonged bed rest), heat/cold application, and self-care strategies. For subacute or chronic pain, emphasis on active therapies (exercise, physiotherapy referral), addressing psychosocial factors (yellow flags), and promoting functional restoration.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI), Tendinopathies & Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) - Initial Assessment & Conservative Management: A first point of contact for work-related or activity-induced repetitive strain injuries, guiding effective conservative management, facilitating return to function, and providing documentation for workplace accommodations if necessary. Referral to specialists (e.g., sports medicine, orthopedics, physiatry) if symptoms are persistent, severe, or require further investigation/intervention.
• Fibromyalgia & Other Widespread Chronic Pain Syndromes - Primary Care Diagnosis & Multimodal Management: Initial assessment and diagnosis of fibromyalgia or other widespread chronic pain syndromes based on established clinical criteria (e.g., ACR criteria for fibromyalgia), after appropriate investigation to rule out other underlying systemic inflammatory or medical conditions. Developing a comprehensive, multimodal management plan focusing on patient education about the condition (central sensitization, pain neurophysiology), promoting self-management, graded exercise therapy (low-impact aerobic, strength, flexibility, aquatic therapy), optimizing sleep hygiene, stress management techniques (mindfulness, relaxation, CBT principles), pain coping strategies, and judicious use of medications targeting central sensitization and associated symptoms (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline, SNRIs like duloxetine/venlafaxine, gabapentinoids like gabapentin/pregabalin). Avoidance of long-term opioid therapy is generally emphasized.
• Gout & Pseudogout (Crystal Arthropathies) - Acute Attack Management & Chronic Prevention Strategies: Providing long-term management strategies for chronic gout to prevent recurrent attacks and complications (e.g., tophi, chronic gouty arthropathy, kidney stones), including detailed lifestyle advice (dietary modifications - reducing purine-rich foods such as red meat/organ meats/shellfish, limiting alcohol especially beer and spirits, avoiding sugary drinks/high-fructose corn syrup; hydration; weight management if overweight/obese) and initiating/managing urate-lowering therapy (ULT) such as allopurinol or febuxostat to achieve and maintain target serum uric acid levels (typically <360 µmol/L or <300 µmol/L if tophi present). Monitoring for medication side effects, adherence, and regular serum uric acid levels.

Preventative Health Topics

• Infectious Disease Prevention & Outbreak Management Support (Community Level): Administering vaccinations to prevent communicable diseases and playing a role in community-level surveillance and reporting as required by public health authorities.
• Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Stress Reduction): Supporting your efforts to adopt and maintain healthier habits across multiple domains of life for a better quality of life, increased resilience, and proactive disease prevention through shared goal setting and ongoing support.
• Driver's Medical Examinations (Routine, Age-Related, Commercial): Objective medical assessments for driving privileges, completed accurately according to regulatory requirements (fees typically apply as this is often an uninsured service). This may involve coordination with specialists if complex medical conditions impact driving ability.
• Weight Management & Obesity Prevention/Treatment: Collaboratively discussing healthy weight goals based on BMI, waist circumference, body composition, and overall health status. Providing guidance on evidence-based strategies for weight management including balanced nutrition (calorie awareness, portion control, whole foods), mindful eating, regular physical activity, behavioral strategies (e.g., goal setting, self-monitoring, addressing emotional eating, sleep optimization), and addressing underlying factors contributing to weight issues. Medical options (pharmacotherapy like GLP-1 agonists, orlistat; bariatric surgery referral) may be discussed if appropriate based on guidelines and individual clinical assessment.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Assessing patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of Restless Legs Syndrome (an urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations, typically worse at rest/in the evening, and relieved by movement). This includes ruling out secondary causes (e.g., iron deficiency, kidney failure, pregnancy, certain medications).
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Investigating causes of anemia (e.g., symptoms like fatigue, pallor, dyspnea on exertion, dizziness, palpitations, restless legs) through thorough history (diet, medications, menstrual history, GI symptoms), physical examination, and targeted blood tests (Complete Blood Count - CBC with differential and red cell indices, iron studies including ferritin, serum vitamin B12, serum folate, reticulocyte count, LDH, bilirubin if hemolysis suspected).
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection - Testing & Eradication Therapy: Prescribing evidence-based eradication therapy regimens (typically involving a combination of antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor - PPI) for confirmed H. pylori infection, according to local guidelines and resistance patterns. Providing patient education on medication adherence and potential side effects.
• Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins (Conservative Management & Lifestyle Advice): Management includes advising on leg elevation, regular exercise (calf muscle pump activation), weight management, avoidance of prolonged standing/sitting, and recommending/prescribing appropriately fitted graduated compression stockings. Patient education on skin care to prevent venous ulcers.

Mental Health Concerns

• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Thoroughly evaluating persistent sleep problems (difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, early morning awakening, non-restorative sleep), offering education on optimal sleep hygiene, principles of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) or facilitating referrals for it, addressing underlying contributing factors (e.g., anxiety, pain, medications, restless legs syndrome), and judiciously considering short-term medication if necessary.
• Depression & Other Mood Disorders (e.g., Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder - Management): Assessing symptoms of depression (low mood, loss of interest/pleasure, fatigue, changes in sleep/appetite) and other mood disorders. Offering empathetic supportive counseling, discussing and initiating treatment options including lifestyle interventions, evidence-based antidepressant medications, and facilitating referrals to psychotherapy or psychiatry for moderate to severe or treatment-resistant cases.
• Stress-Related Conditions, Burnout & Adjustment Disorders: Supportive counseling and practical guidance for stress-related symptoms and adjustment disorders, promoting well-being and preventing escalation to more severe mental health conditions.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Moffat. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Thyroid Disorder Management (Hypo/Hyperthyroidism, Nodules, Hashimoto's): Adjusting thyroid medication based on symptoms and regular blood tests (TSH, free T4, etc.) to maintain optimal thyroid function.
• Cardiovascular & Metabolic Risk Assessment & Management: Identifying individuals at higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, or diabetes to implement early interventions and promote long-term health.
• Evaluation of Acute Headaches & Dizziness / Vertigo: Initial medical evaluation to determine the cause of acute head pain or balance disturbance.
• Insomnia & Sleep Disorder Management (Primary Care Approach): Thoroughly evaluating persistent sleep problems (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, non-restorative sleep), offering education on optimal sleep hygiene, principles of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) or facilitating referrals, and judiciously considering short-term medication if necessary after addressing underlying causes.
• Acne Vulgaris & Rosacea Management: Personalized treatment plans for acne and rosacea based on severity and skin type.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Moffat. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in BC and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Alistair James Moffat's practice, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Moffat frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Patients experiencing having trouble falling asleep most nights, or waking up frequently and feeling exhausted often seek Dr. Moffat's help to improve their quality of life. A key goal is having their unique cultural background, personal values, spiritual beliefs, and communication preferences consistently respected and thoughtfully incorporated into their personalized healthcare plan by an attentive and culturally sensitive Dr. Moffat, supporting their return to activities like thoughtfully and proactively planning for their long-term future, including considerations for retirement, potential changes in living arrangements, or other significant life transitions, with a strong sense of health security and financial preparedness.
• Many seek Dr. Moffat's help for wanting to establish care with a new family doctor after moving to the area. The collaborative goal is achieving significantly better control over chronic inflammatory or allergic conditions like asthma, allergic rhinitis, or eczema, leading to markedly fewer disruptive flare-ups, reduced reliance on rescue medications, and an improved daily experience free from constant symptoms, allowing a return to valued activities like comfortably attending and thoroughly enjoying lengthy public events like concerts, theatre performances, live movies in cinemas, or exciting sporting events, being able to sit for extended periods without significant pain or the need to frequently shift positions.
• Addressing a suspicious mole or skin lesion that has changed in size, shape, or color, or started to itch or bleed with Dr. Moffat often leads to having their pain, whether acute from a recent injury or chronic from a long-standing condition, acknowledged without dismissal, assessed comprehensively using a biopsychosocial lens, and managed more effectively with a personalized, multimodal plan from Dr. Moffat, enabling patients to more freely engage in actively and responsibly participating in their own healthcare journey by consistently attending scheduled appointments with Dr. Moffat, asking insightful questions, understanding their conditions, and diligently following mutually agreed-upon treatment plans.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Moffat, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Moffat practices at a family medical clinic in Kelowna, situated in the Rutland, Black Mountain neighborhood of Kelowna. The clinic is conveniently located near Okanagan College and is accessible via Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Free patient parking is often available on-site or on nearby streets.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC?

Generally, you don't need a referral to see a family doctor in BC if they are accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources, such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website, may be helpful in your search. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see specialists.

I have multiple health problems. How does Dr. Moffat handle complex care?

Managing multiple health conditions is a core part of Dr. Moffat's practice. He will work with you to understand your overall health, manage various chronic diseases simultaneously, optimize your medications, and coordinate with specialists to ensure your care is integrated and patient-centered.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC for eligible residents with a valid health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures or driver's medicals, may not be covered and may have associated fees. Please confirm with the clinic if you have questions about specific services.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor, or general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families of all ages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, providing preventative care, diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing chronic conditions, and coordinating care with specialists. Building long-term relationships with patients is a key aspect of their role.

How often should I see Dr. Moffat for a check-up or physical exam?

The recommended frequency for check-ups varies based on your age, health, medical conditions, and risk factors. Generally, healthy younger adults may need less frequent check-ups, while older adults or those with chronic conditions may benefit from more frequent visits. Discuss your individual needs with Dr. Moffat to determine an appropriate schedule.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC who is accepting new patients?

Check the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website for a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local community health centres or new patient clinics. Finding a doctor may take time.

What if Dr. Moffat works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. Moffat?

Dr. Moffat may practice as part of a team-based practice, meaning you may have access to other healthcare professionals. While the goal is continuity with Dr. Moffat, you might be seen by another team member for routine follow-ups or specific services. The clinic will strive to have you see Dr. Moffat for complex or ongoing issues.

200-285 Aurora Cres, Rutland Medical Associates
Kelowna, BC, V1X 7N6

Phone: (250) 765-6767

Dr. Alistair James Moffat is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Registration Number: 59133

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/373457/Moffat%2CAlistair

Family doctors like Dr. Moffat are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.