Dr. Chi Kien Lai – Pathologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Chi Lai is a highly skilled Anatomical Pathologist, specializing in the laboratory diagnosis of disease. Working within a major hospital's diagnostic laboratory in Vancouver, BC, he collaborates closely with clinicians across various specialties. His role involves examining tissue biopsies and surgical specimens to provide precise diagnostic insights that are vital for patient management. The laboratory where Dr. Lai practices is equipped with advanced diagnostic technology to ensure accurate and timely results, supporting clinical decision-making across medical disciplines. The facility is situated in Vancouver’s vibrant Yaletown, Downtown South neighborhood, near City Hall, and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines), Bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express - Waterfront. The laboratory meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex. For specimen drop-off or specific inquiries, referring physicians are advised to contact the laboratory directly, which functions as a core diagnostic service within the healthcare institution.

Dr. Lai completed his medical education with an MD CM degree from McGill University in 1999. He holds specialty certification as an Anatomical Pathologist and is certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His professional credentials reflect his dedication to maintaining high standards in diagnostic pathology and laboratory medicine, ensuring that patients receive accurate and comprehensive diagnostic assessments.

With a commitment to diagnostic accuracy and precision, Dr. Lai utilizes advanced laboratory techniques and cutting-edge technologies to deliver reliable results. He emphasizes effective collaboration and communication with clinical colleagues to facilitate optimal patient care. Upholding the highest standards of laboratory quality assurance and patient safety, he also contributes to medical knowledge through ongoing research and education. Dr. Lai's professional philosophy centers on providing diagnostic excellence, supporting patient management in Vancouver through comprehensive and timely pathology reporting. He offers his diagnostic expertise and reporting primarily in English, ensuring clarity and precision in all correspondence.

Dr. Lai provides a comprehensive range of diagnostic pathology services. For specific inquiries about test availability or consultative services, referring physicians should contact the laboratory directly.

Note: This list outlines key diagnostic areas. Pathology services support a wide spectrum of medical investigations. Detailed reports are provided to referring physicians for clinical correlation.

All pathology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Association of Pathologists (CAP-ACP) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. Reports and consultations are directed to referring physicians.

The diagnostic laboratory where Dr. Lai practices is situated in Vancouver’s Yaletown, Downtown South neighborhood, close to City Hall. It is easily accessible via TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), Bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is part of a larger hospital or medical center complex, offering a state-of-the-art environment for diagnostic services. The laboratory meets all accessibility standards, ensuring ease of access for staff and specimen drop-offs. For specimen submissions or specific inquiries, referring physicians are encouraged to contact the laboratory's main office or their designated liaison for seamless coordination and service.

How long does it usually take to get pathology results from Dr. Lai's lab?

The turnaround time for pathology results can vary depending on several factors, including the type and complexity of the specimen, the number of specialized tests required (e.g., immunohistochemistry, molecular studies), and the overall lab workload. Simple biopsies might have results in a few days, while more complex cases or those needing extensive ancillary testing might take a week or longer. Your treating physician, who ordered the tests and receives the report from Dr. Lai, is the best person to provide an estimated timeframe for your specific results.

How are the findings from a Pathologist like Dr. Lai used by other doctors?

The diagnostic report provided by a Pathologist like Dr. Lai is fundamental for patient care. It confirms or refutes clinical suspicions, classifies diseases (e.g., type and grade of cancer), identifies infectious agents, and can provide prognostic information. Surgeons use pathology reports to determine if a tumor was completely removed, oncologists to select appropriate chemotherapy, and general practitioners to manage chronic conditions. Essentially, Dr. Lai's findings form the basis for many critical treatment decisions.

Will I meet Dr. Lai directly as a patient?

Typically, patients do not have direct appointments with Pathologists like Dr. Lai. Their expertise is utilized through the analysis of specimens sent to the lab by your treating doctor (e.g., surgeon, family physician, oncologist). Dr. Lai then provides a diagnostic report back to your doctor, who will share the results and discuss the implications with you. The pathologist's work is essential for your diagnosis and treatment plan, even if you don't meet them in person.

What is the role of a Pathologist like Dr. Lai in healthcare?

Dr. Lai is a Anatomical Pathologist involved in the medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis of disease based on the laboratory analysis of bodily fluids such as blood and urine, as well as tissues. He is a physician expert in laboratory medicine and the study of disease. Pathologists are often called 'the doctor's doctor' because they provide essential diagnostic information to clinicians by analyzing patient specimens. This includes interpreting biopsies, surgical resections, cytological samples, and blood tests, ultimately helping to determine the correct diagnosis, prognosis, and appropriate course of treatment for a wide range of medical conditions.

How is accuracy ensured in pathology diagnoses made by Dr. Lai?

Pathology laboratories, where Dr. Lai works, operate under strict quality management systems. This involves numerous checks and balances, from specimen receipt to final report generation. Diagnoses are often based on established criteria, and for challenging cases, pathologists frequently consult with peers or seek second opinions. Continuous education and adherence to best practices are essential for ensuring the high level of accuracy expected in pathology reports provided by Dr. Lai.

Providence Health - St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Rm P2013A, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6

Laboratory Phone: (604) 680-2344 | Laboratory Fax: (604) 806-8158

The laboratory facility meets accessibility standards and is typically part of a larger hospital or medical center complex.

Dr. Lai is a licensed Anatomical Pathologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Pathology services by Dr. Lai are accessed via referrals for specimen analysis from primary care physicians or other specialists. Results and reports are communicated back to the referring doctor.

Verify Dr. Lai's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/364876/Lai%2CChi