About
Dr. Charles Beverly Lytle Gervais 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 Surrey, BC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Gervais provides comprehensive neurological care, addressing a wide spectrum of conditions including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His focus is on delivering expert, patient-centered care tailored to individual needs, fostering a supportive environment for patients and their families navigating neurological health challenges.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from St George's University School of Medicine in Grenada and holds specialty certification as a Neurologist. His credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards of neurological practice. Dr. Gervais continuously updates his knowledge to incorporate the latest advancements in neurological diagnostics and treatments, ensuring his patients benefit from evidence-based care.
Dr. Gervais’s clinical philosophy centers on a holistic, patient-centered approach to neurological health. He emphasizes ongoing patient education, thorough evaluations, and collaborative decision-making to optimize outcomes. Fluent in English, he is dedicated to providing accessible, compassionate care to adult patients in Surrey, ensuring they receive personalized attention in a respectful and supportive setting. His commitment is to improve patients’ quality of life through precise diagnosis, effective treatment, and comprehensive support throughout their neurological journey.
Dr. Charles Gervais addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
- 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.
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
Movement Disorders
- Essential Tremor: A nervous system disorder (neurological disorder) that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking, most often in the hands.
- Dystonia (Focal, Segmental, Generalized): A movement disorder in which a person's muscles contract uncontrollably, causing repetitive or twisting movements.
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): A condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, typically because of an uncomfortable sensation.
Headache Disorders
- Tension-Type Headache: The most common type of primary headache, often described as a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck.
- Chronic Daily Headache: Headaches occurring 15 or more days per month for at least three months.
- Migraine (with or without Aura): A type of headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Charles Gervais.
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- 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.
- 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.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Gervais 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 British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Situated within a neurology department in Surrey’s vibrant Guildford and Fraser Heights neighborhoods, Dr. Gervais's practice is easily accessible via public transit and car. The clinic is conveniently located near the Museum of Surrey and the upcoming Future SkyTrain Extension, making it a central point for residents of Surrey and surrounding areas. Public transit options include TransLink services, such as the SkyTrain Expo Line and local buses, providing reliable connections. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, offering flexibility for patients and visitors seeking in-person neurological care in a comfortable and accessible environment.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Gervais, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Gervais, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC 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. Gervais's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Gervais, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Gervais 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 are the treatment options for epilepsy?
- The primary treatment for epilepsy is anti-seizure medication (ASM), formerly known as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). There are many different ASMs available, and the choice depends on the type of seizures, epilepsy syndrome, age, other medical conditions, and potential side effects. For some individuals whose seizures are not controlled by medication (drug-resistant epilepsy), other options may include dietary therapies (like the ketogenic diet), neurostimulation devices (like Vagus Nerve Stimulation - VNS), or epilepsy surgery. Dr. Gervais can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.
- What does a Neurologist like Dr. Gervais 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. He is a Neurologist specializing in disorders of the nervous system. Dr. Gervais is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions.
- What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Gervais?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Gervais will likely be quite thorough. He will take a detailed medical history, including your current symptoms, past illnesses, family history of neurological conditions, and any medications you are taking. A comprehensive neurological examination will be performed, which assesses things like your mental status, cranial nerves (vision, hearing, facial movement), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. Based on this, Dr. Gervais may discuss potential diagnoses, order further tests (like an MRI, EEG, or blood work), or suggest initial treatment options. Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical records or imaging reports if you have them.
- 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. Gervais 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.
- When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?
- You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Gervais if needed.
Jim Pattison Outpatient Care, 9750 140th Street, Fraser Health Authority
Surrey, BC V3T 0G9
Phone: (604) 582-4561 | Fax: (604) 582-3784
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Gervais is a licensed Neurologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician is typically required for consultations with Dr. Gervais for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/345636/Gervais%2CCharles