Dr. Christopher James Ryerson – Pulmonologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Christopher James Ryerson is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Ryerson is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Ryerson is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and upholds the highest professional and ethical standards of medical practice in BC. As a certified specialist in Respirology (also known as Pulmonology), Dr. Ryerson focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system. The goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for patients with breathing disorders. Dr. Ryerson serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions.

Dr. Christopher James Ryerson earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 2004. Following this, Dr. Ryerson completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 21 years of specialized practice since 2004, Dr. Ryerson's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Ryerson is dedicated to ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest advancements in respiratory medicine to provide optimal patient care.

Key aspects of Dr. Ryerson's medical practice philosophy include: empowering patients through clear education about their lung condition and active involvement in their management; a holistic view of respiratory health, considering all factors that impact breathing and well-being; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in respiratory care. Dr. Ryerson provides consultations in English.

As a Respirologist, Dr. Christopher James Ryerson diagnoses and manages a wide array of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including but not limited to:

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Sarcoidosis (Pulmonary Manifestations): Treating respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain related to pulmonary sarcoidosis.
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Diagnosing and treating lung inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled organic dusts, molds, or chemicals.

Airway Diseases

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Helping patients manage symptoms of chronic cough, sputum production, and dyspnea associated with COPD.
• Bronchiectasis: Focusing on airway clearance techniques, antibiotic therapy for exacerbations, and preventing further lung damage.
• Chronic Bronchitis: A component of COPD, managed with strategies to reduce airway inflammation and improve mucus clearance.

Lung Infections

• Pneumonia: Diagnosing and treating infections that inflame the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus (e.g., bacterial, viral, fungal).
• Bronchitis (Acute): Treating acute inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by viral infections, leading to cough and mucus.
• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Respiratory assessment and follow-up for patients undergoing treatment for tuberculosis.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Ryerson, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.

• COPD Management and Education: Providing education and support to empower individuals with COPD to actively participate in their care.
• Diagnostic Bronchoscopy: Utilizing bronchoscopic techniques for accurate diagnosis of various lung pathologies.
• Oxygen Therapy Prescription and Management: Ensuring appropriate use and settings for home oxygen therapy.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Referral: Referring eligible patients to comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation programs to improve exercise capacity, reduce symptoms, and enhance self-management skills.
• Chest Imaging Interpretation: Analyzing radiological images to detect signs of infection, inflammation, tumors, or structural lung changes.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Ryerson. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any test or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation or speak with your referring physician.

All services by Dr. Christopher James Ryerson adhere to the scope of practice for Respirologists in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Christopher James Ryerson's practice, the primary aim is to work collaboratively with you to manage your respiratory condition effectively, improve your breathing, and enhance your overall quality of life. Dr. Ryerson frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• Through Dr. Ryerson's skilled guidance and modern medical techniques, patients suffering from difficulty clearing mucus from their lungs often find they can readily achieve being able to travel or engage in hobbies that were previously limited by breathlessness and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like feeling more energetic and less fatigued during the day.
• When needing guidance on how to use their inhalers or CPAP machine correctly begins to noticeably impact daily life and well-being, Dr. Ryerson helps patients strive for successful and comfortable use of their CPAP therapy for sleep apnea. This makes participating in activities such as managing a full day of activities without needing excessive rest due to breathlessness a pleasant and possible experience again.
• Patients frequently come to Dr. Ryerson with concerns about getting frequent lung infections like bronchitis or pneumonia. By working together as a team, they typically aim for and achieve better understanding of how to use their inhalers and medications correctly, making a positive and lasting return to concentrating better at work or school without distraction from respiratory symptoms not just possible, but highly feasible.
• If coughing up blood or blood-streaked mucus is preventing you from fully enjoying traveling by car or plane with greater comfort or causing significant discomfort, Dr. Ryerson offers expert respiratory solutions. The primary aim is to achieve learning effective techniques to manage their breathing and clear their airways through comprehensive and personalized care.

Your personalized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Ryerson, will be tailored to address your specific respiratory needs and health goals. Dr. Ryerson is dedicated to providing expert care and empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to achieve their best possible respiratory health.

Dr. Ryerson's practice, a respiratory clinic in Vancouver, is situated in the Yaletown, Downtown South neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Queen Elizabeth Park and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Information regarding parking options can be provided when you call to book your appointment.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Ryerson at the clinic?

The first visit with Dr. Ryerson will typically involve a comprehensive respiratory assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the nature and timeline of their current respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath, wheezing), how these symptoms impact their daily activities, smoking history, environmental exposures, and any previous treatments. Dr. Ryerson will then perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the respiratory system (listening to the lungs, observing breathing patterns). Any prior imaging (Chest X-rays, CT scans) or test results (like PFTs) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Ryerson will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations (like PFTs, sleep study, or bronchoscopy if needed), and will outline potential treatment options, working with the patient to establish health goals.

What is the policy regarding missed appointments or late cancellations at our clinic?

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise. However, we kindly request at least 24 business hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment with Dr. Ryerson. This allows us to offer the appointment time to another patient who may be waiting for care. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than the requested notice, or missed without any notification, may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please inquire about the specific fee. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us manage our schedule efficiently to serve all our patients.

What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Ryerson recommend them?

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are a group of non-invasive breathing tests that measure how well the lungs are working. They assess lung volume (how much air the lungs can hold), airflow rates (how quickly air can be moved in and out), and gas exchange (how well oxygen moves from the lungs into the blood). Dr. Ryerson might recommend PFTs to help diagnose conditions like asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or to assess the severity of a known lung disease, monitor its progression, or evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. Common PFTs include spirometry, lung volume measurement, and diffusing capacity tests.

What does a Respirologist / Pulmonologist like Dr. Ryerson do?

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Ryerson is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases and conditions of the lungs and respiratory system. This includes conditions like asthma, COPD (emphysema, chronic bronchitis), pneumonia, lung cancer, sleep apnea, interstitial lung diseases, and pleural diseases. Their goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms like shortness of breath and cough, and enhance the quality of life for people with breathing problems. They use various diagnostic tools like pulmonary function tests and bronchoscopy, and treatments including medications, inhalers, oxygen therapy, and management of devices like CPAP machines.

Do I typically need a referral to see a Respirologist (Pulmonologist) like Dr. Ryerson?

Yes, in BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Respirologist like Dr. Ryerson for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC. This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Ryerson has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need a respiratory assessment.

Can Dr. Ryerson help manage chronic conditions like asthma or COPD?

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Ryerson are experts in the long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis). After a thorough assessment, Dr. Ryerson develops a personalized management plan. This may include prescribing appropriate inhaler medications (relievers and controllers), educating patients on correct inhaler technique, developing action plans for flare-ups, advising on trigger avoidance, recommending smoking cessation programs, and coordinating pulmonary rehabilitation if beneficial. The goal is to optimize symptom control, reduce exacerbations, improve lung function, and enhance overall quality of life.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Ryerson covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Respirologist like Dr. Ryerson are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic tests like PFTs and bronchoscopies ordered by a specialist are also usually covered. However, some specific treatments, devices (e.g., CPAP machines, some specialized inhalers), or medications may not be fully covered or may have co-payments depending on provincial formularies and private insurance. It's always best for patients to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any.

Ward 8B-1081 Burrard St, Division of Respiratory Medicine, St. Paul's Hospital
Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6

Phone: (604) 806-8818

Dr. Christopher James Ryerson is a licensed Respirologist in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: 63129

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/328197/Ryerson%2CChristopher

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is typically required to see Dr. Ryerson. Dr. Ryerson and the team are dedicated to providing comprehensive respiratory care. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or severe difficulty breathing, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.