Dr. Christopher Byron Fordyce – Cardiologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Christopher Byron Fordyce is a dedicated Cardiologist specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of heart and blood vessel diseases. Practicing in Vancouver, BC, he serves patients from the surrounding region. Dr. Fordyce adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring quality care for his patients. His practice focuses on comprehensive cardiovascular assessment and management, with a particular interest in preventive cardiology and complex heart conditions. He primarily provides care for adult patients, addressing a broad spectrum of heart-related health issues.

Dr. Fordyce graduated with an MD CM from McGill University in 2008 and completed extensive post-graduate training in Cardiology, including a residency and fellowship accredited by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His certifications attest to his expertise and commitment to ongoing professional development in the field of cardiology, enabling him to deliver evidence-based and up-to-date care to his patients.

With a clinical philosophy rooted in evidence-based medicine, Dr. Fordyce is committed to providing comprehensive, patient-centered care in Vancouver. He speaks English and French, facilitating communication with a diverse patient population. His approach emphasizes education, prevention, and tailored treatment plans to optimize cardiovascular health and improve quality of life.

Dr. Fordyce provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease

• Management after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Long-term medical care, risk factor control, and lifestyle guidance following heart bypass surgery.
• Stable Angina Pectoris: Managing chest discomfort or pressure caused by narrowed heart arteries, typically occurring during exertion or stress.
• Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

• Primary & Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: Developing comprehensive strategies (lifestyle and medical) to prevent a first heart event or subsequent events in high-risk individuals.
• Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.
• Advanced Dyslipidemia (Cholesterol) Management: Treatment of complex or severe cholesterol disorders, especially in patients with high cardiovascular risk or medication intolerance.

Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy

• Cardiomyopathy (Various Types): Diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the heart muscle itself, such as dilated, hypertrophic, or restrictive cardiomyopathy.
• Pulmonary Hypertension Evaluation: Assessing for high blood pressure in the lung arteries, often related to underlying heart or lung conditions.
• Congestive Heart Failure (Systolic & Diastolic): Comprehensive management including optimizing medications, managing symptoms (fluid retention, shortness of breath), and improving quality of life.

Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Fordyce is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.

• Consultation for Chest Pain Evaluation: Specialist assessment to determine the cause of chest pain, differentiating between cardiac and non-cardiac origins.
• Cardiology Consultation & Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular symptoms, risk factors, and medical history to establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Follow-Up Cardiology Care: Ongoing monitoring and management of established heart conditions, including medication adjustments and assessment of treatment effectiveness.
• Management of Cardiovascular Medications: Expert prescribing, titration, and monitoring of medications used to treat various heart conditions and risk factors.
• Consultation for Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Investigating the potential cardiac causes of breathlessness.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Fordyce. The specific services required will depend on your individual diagnosis and referral. Please discuss specific service needs with your referring physician.

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

Dr. Fordyce primarily practices at medical facilities located in the Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver, BC. The practice is conveniently accessible from Cambie Village and Oakridge Centre, which is currently undergoing redevelopment. Patients can reach the clinic via TransLink services, including the SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as local bus routes, the SeaBus, and West Coast Express from Waterfront Station. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Fordyce covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Fordyce are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid health card and a required referral. Most medically necessary diagnostic tests ordered by a cardiologist (like ECGs, standard echocardiograms, stress tests) are also usually covered. Some advanced tests or specific procedures might have different coverage rules or require pre-approval. It's always best to confirm specific coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the testing facility.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Fordyce?

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Fordyce. This ensures the consultation is appropriate for your medical needs and facilitates coordination of your care. Please ask your doctor to send a referral request.

What are some common heart tests Dr. Fordyce might order?

Common tests include: Electrocardiogram (ECG), Echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), Stress Test (treadmill or chemical), Holter monitoring (24hr+ ECG), and blood tests (e.g., cholesterol, kidney function). Depending on your situation, he might also consider Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring, Cardiac CT, MRI, or referral for Cardiac Catheterization if needed. The reason for each test will be explained.

How important is lifestyle in managing my heart condition?

Lifestyle choices are extremely important for both preventing and managing cardiovascular disease. Adopting heart-healthy habits – like regular physical activity, a balanced diet low in sodium and unhealthy fats, smoking cessation, stress management, and maintaining a healthy weight – can significantly improve outcomes and complement medical treatments recommended by Dr. Fordyce.

Can my spouse or family member come with me?

Yes, you are welcome to bring someone with you for support or to help listen and ask questions during your appointment with Dr. Fordyce. Having another person present can often be very helpful, especially during complex discussions.

What should I bring to my first cardiology appointment?

Please bring:

• Your provincial health card (Medical Services Plan (MSP) card).
• The referral letter.
• A complete list of ALL current medications (including doses and frequencies). Bringing the bottles is best.
• A list of past medical conditions, surgeries, and allergies.
• Any relevant medical reports or test results (e.g., recent ECGs, blood work).
• A list of your symptoms and questions for Dr. Fordyce.

2775 Laurel St, 9th Floor, Gordon & Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Phone: (604) 875-5230 | Fax: (604) 675-3007

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Fordyce is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/333348/Fordyce%2CChristopher