Dr. Cecile Phan – Neurologist | Edmonton, AB

Dr. Cecile Phan is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at a neurology clinic within a hospital department in Edmonton, AB, she is an integral part of the local medical community. She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. Her approach emphasizes a thorough, patient-centered strategy aimed at improving neurological health and quality of life.

She has completed extensive post-graduate training and holds the necessary certifications to practice Neurology (Disorders of the Brain, Spinal Cord, Nerves, and Muscles) in Alberta. Dr. Phan graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Alberta and is certified by relevant medical boards, ensuring her expertise aligns with the highest standards of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA).

Dedicated to ongoing education and evidence-based practice, Dr. Phan commits to providing compassionate, holistic care tailored to each patient's unique needs. She believes in empowering her patients through education about their neurological conditions and encourages active participation in their treatment plans. Fluent in English and Vietnamese, she strives to serve diverse patient populations in Edmonton with respect and understanding.

Dr. Cecile Phan addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.
• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.

Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases

• Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis (CVST): A blood clot in the dural venous sinuses, which drain blood from the brain.
• Carotid Artery Stenosis (Symptomatic): Narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck, increasing stroke risk if it causes neurological symptoms.
• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) / Mini-Stroke: A temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, often a warning sign for a future stroke.

Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders

• Focal (Partial) Epilepsy (with or without secondary generalization): Seizures originating in one area of the brain, which may or may not spread to become generalized.
• Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy: Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to treatment with two or more appropriately chosen anti-seizure medications.
• Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Cecile Phan.

• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
• Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
• Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Phan for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. Cecile Phan practices at a modern neurology department located in Edmonton's S Central area, within close proximity to the University of Alberta and the Garneau neighborhood. The facility is situated near the Citadel Theatre, providing easy access for patients from various parts of the city. The location is well-served by Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including LRT and bus routes, ensuring convenient public transportation options. The clinic space is wheelchair accessible, and parking is available at or near the facility, making it accessible for all patients seeking neurological care in Edmonton.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Phan, a Neurologist, covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Phan, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Phan's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Phan, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Phan for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

What does a Neurologist like Dr. Phan specialize in?

A Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. She is a Neurologist specializing in disorders of the nervous system. Dr. Phan is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.

What does a Neurologist do for stroke patients?

For acute ischemic stroke, neurologists in a hospital setting are involved in rapid diagnosis and administration of time-sensitive treatments like thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) or coordinating endovascular thrombectomy. After a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack), a neurologist like Dr. Phan focuses on identifying the cause and implementing strategies for secondary prevention to reduce the risk of future strokes. This includes managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and recommending antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications and lifestyle changes.

11400 University Ave NW, Unit 4C
Edmonton, AB T6G 1Z1

Phone: (780) 248-1698 | Fax: (780) 248-1807

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Phan is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in AB. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Phan for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=3396ee9a-f0b5-4df1-a8a9-d4cbe8ce6c65&i=1156