Dr. Bryce Albert Ford – Ophthalmologist | Calgary, AB

Dr. Bryce Albert Ford is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at Rockyview General Hospital in Calgary, AB, 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 Alberta (CPSA), ensuring that every patient receives care that is both safe and effective. As a skilled Ophthalmologist, he offers a comprehensive range of medical and surgical eye services, including diagnosis and treatment of various eye diseases, as well as vision correction procedures. The clinic provides a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine eye examinations and vision correction to advanced surgical interventions, all delivered in a patient-friendly environment.

Dr. Ford graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of British Columbia in 1999 and has since established himself as an experienced Ophthalmologist with extensive postgraduate training. He holds key certifications including the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Ophthalmology. His advanced training and certifications reflect his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of eye care and staying current with the latest technological and medical advancements in the field.

With a professional philosophy centered on preserving and enhancing vision, Dr. Ford emphasizes compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. He is dedicated to educating patients about their eye health, involving them in treatment decisions, and utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for precise and effective treatments. His focus on early detection and management of eye diseases aims to prevent vision loss and improve quality of life. Dr. Ford values collaborative care, working closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient well-being. Additionally, he is proficient in French, ensuring clear and effective communication with all patients in Calgary.

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

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

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

• Myopia (Nearsightedness): Corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK).
• Presbyopia: A natural part of the aging process of the eye.
• Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Ford addresses a leading cause of reversible vision impairment, especially in older adults.

• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Treated with a quick and painless YAG laser capsulotomy procedure.
• Age-Related Cataracts: The most common type of cataract.
• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Often associated with other systemic conditions or genetic factors.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. Ford addresses a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often characterized by increased intraocular pressure, leading to progressive, irreversible vision loss.

• Congenital or Childhood Glaucoma: Requires prompt surgical intervention to control eye pressure and prevent blindness.
• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): Managed with eye drops, laser trabeculoplasty, or surgical procedures (e.g., trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage devices).
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Optic nerve damage and vision loss occur despite intraocular pressure being within the normal range.

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

• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Prescription and fitting of corrective lenses, including specialized contact lenses.
• Emergency Eye Care Services: Access to immediate care to prevent long-term vision damage.
• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Offering premium IOL options designed to reduce dependence on glasses after cataract surgery.
• Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (Femtosecond Laser): Potentially offers improved visual outcomes for select patients.
• Laser Treatments for Glaucoma (SLT, LPI, Cyclophotocoagulation): Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) to improve fluid drainage in open-angle glaucoma.
• Comprehensive Adult and Pediatric Eye Examinations: Baseline evaluations and routine check-ups for maintaining optimal eye health.

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

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

Dr. Ford primarily practices within Rockyview General Hospital, located in Calgary's SW neighbourhoods of Killarney, Glendale, and Glenbrook. The clinic is conveniently situated near McMahon Stadium, accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). The eye clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with on-site or nearby public parking generally available. Patients can expect a professional and welcoming environment for comprehensive eye care, including routine exams, advanced surgical procedures, and emergency services.

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

Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Ford for diagnosed eye conditions is covered under Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). This includes treatments for diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. Routine eye check-ups for vision testing (refraction) may not be covered for all age groups unless there's an underlying medical reason. Elective cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by provincial health insurance. Medically necessary eye exams and treatments for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). 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. Ford's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Ford?

You should see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Ford for comprehensive eye examinations, especially if you have a family history of eye disease, are over 40, or have medical conditions like diabetes that can affect your eyes. Also, seek consultation for any sudden vision changes, eye pain, injury, persistent redness, or if referred by your family doctor or optometrist for a specific eye condition.

What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Ford specialize in?

Dr. Ford 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. Ford perform cataract surgery?

Yes, cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed by Ophthalmologists like Dr. Ford. It involves removing the cloudy natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision. Dr. Ford can evaluate your cataracts and discuss the surgical options, including different types of IOLs.

What is the difference between an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Ford and an Optometrist?

An Ophthalmologist like Dr. Ford is a medical doctor (MD/DO) who has completed medical school followed by residency training in ophthalmology. They are licensed to practice medicine and surgery, diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe medications, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Optometrists (OD) are healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive eye care, including vision testing, prescribing corrective lenses, and diagnosing and managing certain eye abnormalities and diseases (scope varies by province/territory). They typically do not perform invasive surgery.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ford?

Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Ford for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Ford's office or seek emergency eye care as appropriate, as referral requirements may differ in emergencies. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (403) 245-1058.

How does Dr. Ford treat glaucoma?

Dr. Ford 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.

Rockyview General Hospital
102-49 Richard Way SW
Calgary, AB T3E 7M8

Office Phone: (403) 245-3730 | Office Fax: (403) 245-1058

Dr. Ford is a licensed Ophthalmologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Ford, particularly for services covered by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Verify Dr. Ford's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=81727a71-763d-4bb7-8b19-e03cf23d0feb&i=476