Dr. Azzam Azmy Abdelfattah Azzam

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

Pediatric Common Issues

• Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Supporting new parents in caring for their infant, addressing common concerns (colic, reflux, sleep patterns), and promoting bonding and healthy attachment.
• Developmental, Behavioral & Learning Concerns in Children (Screening, Initial Assessment, Guidance & Referral Coordination): A first point of contact and trusted resource for parents with concerns about a child's learning, behavior, social interaction, or overall development, offering support, resources, advocacy, and clear pathways to specialized care and school-based supports.
• Pediatric Asthma, Eczema & Allergy Management (Primary Care): Diagnosing and managing common chronic conditions in pediatric patients, such as asthma (including education on inhaler/spacer technique, trigger avoidance, development of personalized asthma action plans for home and school), eczema (atopic dermatitis - focusing on skincare, emollients, topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors, trigger management), and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Includes initial assessment and guidance for food allergies, with referral to pediatric allergists for confirmation and comprehensive management if indicated.

Common Chronic Conditions

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Primary Care Management: Diagnosing IBS based on symptom criteria after ruling out other conditions, and providing primary care management strategies including dietary advice (e.g., low FODMAP diet introduction, fiber management), lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and symptomatic treatment for abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) & Associated Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Individualized, evidence-based care plans for individuals living with hypertension, focusing on patient education, shared decision-making, and promoting long-term adherence to treatment for optimal cardiovascular health.
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus & Prediabetes: Managing all aspects of type 2 diabetes and prediabetes with personalized treatment plans. This includes regular blood sugar monitoring (self-monitoring, A1c, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) discussion), prescription and adjustment of medications (oral hypoglycemics, GLP-1 agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, insulin), comprehensive diet and exercise counseling, and proactive screening and management of diabetes-related complications (retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, foot problems, cardiovascular disease).
• Osteoarthritis & Other Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain (e.g., Chronic Back/Neck Pain, Fibromyalgia): Developing personalized strategies to reduce chronic joint and muscle pain, improve mobility and function, enhance coping mechanisms, and improve overall quality of life for those living with conditions like arthritis, persistent back pain or fibromyalgia.

Mental Health Concerns

• 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.
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Comprehensive primary care management of common sleep disorders to restore healthy sleep patterns and improve overall health and well-being.
• Depression & Other Mood Disorders (e.g., Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder - Management): Providing compassionate, evidence-informed primary care and management strategies for those affected by depression and other common mood disorders, with a focus on recovery and long-term stability.
• Anxiety Disorders (Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety - Management): Ongoing management and support for anxiety disorders, helping patients develop coping strategies, achieve symptom remission or reduction, and improve overall well-being.

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

• Well-Child & Well-Adolescent Visits (Growth & Development): Scheduled visits to track your child's or teen's health trajectory, address any emerging concerns, and provide guidance on nutrition, safety, and healthy habits.
• Joint Injections for Pain Relief (e.g., Corticosteroid - if trained/equipped): Offering targeted injections as part of a comprehensive management plan for certain types of joint pain.
• Hypertension & Lipid Disorder Management (High Blood Pressure & Cholesterol): Expert care to help you achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol targets, preventing long-term complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
• Hospital Discharge Follow-Up & Transitions of Care Management: Helping you navigate your health journey effectively after a hospital discharge, ensuring all aspects of your care plan are understood, implemented, and monitored.
• Smoking & Tobacco Cessation Programs & Support: Dedicated, non-judgmental support for your journey to become smoke-free, improving your immediate and long-term health significantly.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Azzam. 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. Azzam Azmy Abdelfattah Azzam'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. Azzam frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Dr. Azzam understands the impact of symptoms of a possible urinary tract infection (UTI) like burning pain, increased frequency, or urgency to urinate. That's why treatment is geared towards receiving a timely diagnosis of a previously unrecognized condition like obstructive sleep apnea, celiac disease, or hypothyroidism through Dr. Azzam's astute clinical screening and appropriate referral for confirmatory testing, leading to effective treatment and significantly improved quality of life, helping patients get back to significantly reducing the frequency, duration, and severity of sick days from common illnesses for themselves and their children, leading to better attendance at work/school, improved overall productivity, and less household disruption with greater ease.
• Many patients have successfully addressed preparing for international travel and needing advice on health precautions, necessary vaccinations, or malaria prevention with Dr. Azzam's support. This often leads to their entire family unit benefiting immensely from consistent, holistic, person-centered, and comprehensive care from a family doctor, Dr. Azzam, who truly knows their interconnected health histories, family dynamics, social context, and individual preferences and the ability to fully participate in fully enjoying intimate moments and maintaining healthy, satisfying sexual relationships without the intrusion of physical pain, health-related anxiety, medication side effects, or concerns about performance once more.
• For patients where ongoing digestive issues like persistent heartburn after meals, uncomfortable bloating, or frequent stomach upset is a concern, Dr. Azzam focuses on plans that lead to their entire family feeling much better prepared for common health emergencies or accidents after discussing age-appropriate safety plans, basic first aid, and when to seek urgent care with Dr. Azzam, supporting their ability to comfortably and confidently navigating crowded, stimulating public spaces like busy shopping malls, bustling farmers' markets, large airports, or public transit hubs without feeling overwhelmed, excessively stressed, or physically unsafe.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Azzam, 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. Azzam practices at a family medical clinic in Duncan, situated in a family medical practice in the central Duncan neighborhood of Duncan. The clinic is conveniently located near local community centers, schools, and shopping areas and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

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 provincial health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, most travel medicine consultations, sick notes, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

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

A family doctor, often called a general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like check-ups, immunizations, and health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and well-being.

What should I bring with me to my appointment with Dr. Azzam?

To each appointment with Dr. Azzam at the clinic, please ensure you have your provincial health card. A current, detailed list of all your medications (name, dose, frequency) is very important. If you're coming about a specific issue and have related reports (like X-rays, specialist letters, or recent lab results), please bring those along. It's also a good idea to jot down any questions or symptoms you want to discuss with Dr. Azzam beforehand so you don't forget anything important during your visit.

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. Resources like the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website may be helpful. A referral is usually required to see specialists.

Does Dr. Azzam at <clinic name> offer virtual (video) or phone appointments?

Yes, Dr. Azzam offers virtual (video) and/or phone appointments for certain types of consultations when clinically appropriate. These can be convenient for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, or prescription renewals (not controlled substances). However, many conditions require an in-person visit. Please discuss with our reception staff or Dr. Azzam if a virtual appointment is suitable. Provincial health plan coverage for virtual visits may vary; please check with our clinic regarding any potential fees for uninsured virtual services.

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

Dr. Azzam is well-equipped to manage complex care. He understands how different conditions and their treatments might interact, helps you navigate the healthcare system, and ensures all aspects of your health are considered in your overall treatment plan. He will work with you and other specialists to manage your health comprehensively.

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. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local community health centres or new patient clinics. Finding a family doctor may take time.

What happens if Dr. Azzam determines I need to see a medical specialist?

If Dr. Azzam determines you need a specialist, he will discuss this with you and initiate a referral. He will send a referral letter and your medical information to the specialist's office. Wait times vary. The clinic staff will inform you once the referral is sent; the specialist's office will contact you to schedule an appointment. Please follow up with our clinic if you haven't heard from the specialist within a reasonable timeframe.

201-2763 Beverly St
Duncan, BC, V9L 6X2

Phone: (250) 597-3777

Dr. Azzam Azmy Abdelfattah Azzam 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: 60948

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/370481/Azzam%2CAzzam

Family doctors like Dr. Azzam 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.