Dr. Bree Ashley Harris – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Penticton, BC

Dr. Bree Ashley Harris is a highly skilled Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (commonly known as an ENT Doctor) dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. Practicing at a clinic in Penticton, BC, she serves the local community with a focus on providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. Her practice adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care. Dr. Harris's primary goal is to help patients of all ages manage their ENT health effectively, whether dealing with chronic issues or acute conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck regions.

She graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Saskatchewan in 2012 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Harris holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical expertise and professionalism in her field.

Dr. Harris is committed to patient education, evidence-based practice, and a collaborative approach to care. She strives to provide high-quality ENT services in Penticton, ensuring that her patients receive personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs. She communicates fluently in English and is dedicated to making her patients feel informed and comfortable throughout their healthcare journey.

Dr. Bree Harris manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:

Common Ear Conditions

• Vertigo & Dizziness (e.g., BPPV, Meniere's Disease, Vestibular Neuronitis, Labyrinthitis): Sensations of spinning (vertigo) or unsteadiness (dizziness) often caused by inner ear or balance system disorders.
• Tinnitus (Ringing or Buzzing in the Ears): Perception of noise, such as ringing, buzzing, or hissing, in the ears or head when no external sound is present.
• Acute Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection): A common infection of the middle ear, often causing ear pain and fever, especially in children.
• Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Hearing impairment resulting from exposure to loud sounds, which can be temporary or permanent.
• Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: A condition where the tube connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose doesn't open or close properly, causing ear pressure or fluid.

Common Head and Neck Conditions (General)

• Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders (ENT Assessment for Related Symptoms): Problems affecting the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, where an ENT may evaluate related symptoms like ear pain or facial pain.
• Skin Cancers of the Head & Neck (Basal Cell, Squamous Cell, Melanoma): Malignant growths on the skin of the head and neck, which are common due to sun exposure and require specialized treatment.

This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Bree Harris or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
• Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Harris offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Harris's areas of focus.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). A referral may be required.

Dr. Harris's practice is primarily based at a modern clinic located in the Penticton Central, South End, Kaledon, Okanagan Falls, Naramata Bench (Rural South) neighborhood of Penticton. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Cascades Casino and South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC). Patients can access the facility easily via the South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are services from Dr. Harris, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Harris are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the clinic if you have questions.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Harris, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Harris. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.

How can Dr. Harris help with snoring and sleep apnea?

Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are often caused by an obstruction or narrowing of the airway in the nose or throat. Dr. Harris, an ENT specialist, can perform a thorough examination to identify the areas of obstruction (e.g., deviated septum, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, large tongue base, elongated soft palate). Depending on the findings, treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (weight loss, positional therapy), CPAP therapy (often managed by a sleep physician), oral appliances, or surgical procedures aimed at improving airway patency. Examples include septoplasty, tonsillectomy, UPPP, or Inspire therapy in select cases.

Why are ear tubes recommended for some children with recurrent ear infections?

Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes) are often recommended for children who experience frequent middle ear infections (recurrent acute otitis media) or persistent fluid in the middle ear (otitis media with effusion) that doesn't clear on its own. These tiny tubes are inserted into the eardrum to help ventilate the middle ear space, prevent fluid buildup, reduce the frequency of infections, and can improve hearing if it was affected by the fluid. Dr. Harris can assess if ear tubes are appropriate for your child.

How are allergies related to ENT problems?

Allergies can significantly impact the ears, nose, and throat. Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) can cause nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, post-nasal drip, and itchy, watery eyes. Allergies can also contribute to chronic sinusitis, eustachian tube dysfunction (leading to ear pressure, popping, or fluid), recurrent ear infections, and exacerbate conditions like asthma or voice changes. An ENT specialist may investigate and help manage the ENT-related symptoms of allergies, often by recommending nasal sprays, antihistamines, or discussing options like immunotherapy, sometimes working in conjunction with an allergist.

What does an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon (ENT Doctor) like Dr. Harris do?

An Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, often called an ENT doctor, like Dr. Harris, is a medical doctor with specialized training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck. This includes medical treatments and surgical procedures for hearing disorders, sinus problems, voice issues, sleep apnea, throat infections, and tumors of the head and neck region.

1498 Leir St
Penticton, BC V2A 4Z5

Phone: (236) 422-0083 | Fax: (236) 422-0084

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Harris is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/339510/Harris%2CBree