Dr. Christopher Thomas Waite – Ophthalmologist | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Christopher Thomas Waite is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at a specialized eye clinic in Kelowna in Kelowna, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. Adhering to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), he offers a comprehensive range of eye care services. His focus includes the diagnosis and treatment of a wide spectrum of eye diseases and vision problems, ensuring that each patient receives personalized and effective care in a patient-friendly environment.

He is an experienced Ophthalmologist with extensive postgraduate training, having graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2009. Dr. Waite holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of practice and ongoing professional development. His advanced training enables him to manage complex eye conditions and perform a variety of surgical procedures with precision and care.

Dr. Waite’s professional philosophy centers on preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. He emphasizes educating patients about their eye health and involving them actively in treatment decisions. Utilizing the latest diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, he ensures treatments are precise and effective. His dedication extends to early detection and proactive management of eye diseases to prevent vision loss, all while collaborating with other healthcare professionals for comprehensive patient well-being. He provides all patient communication and care in English, with a strong focus on patient understanding and comfort.

Dr. Christopher Waite provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

Dr. Waite addresses management of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).

• Presbyopia: Age-related loss of the eye's ability to focus on close objects, typically becoming noticeable in the early to mid-40s.
• Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.
• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): May cause eye strain or headaches, especially with close work.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Waite addresses conditions related to the clouding of the eye's natural lens (cataract) or other lens abnormalities.

• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Can significantly impact visual development and requires prompt surgical intervention if visually significant.
• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Commonly referred to as an 'after-cataract'.
• Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: May require surgical repositioning, exchange, or suturing of the lens.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. Waite addresses a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often characterized by increased intraocular pressure, leading to progressive, irreversible vision loss.

• Congenital or Childhood Glaucoma: Symptoms can include excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and an enlarged cloudy cornea.
• Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Can be open-angle or angle-closure.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): Laser iridotomy is a common preventative or treatment procedure.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. Christopher Waite is necessary.

• Laser Treatments for Glaucoma (SLT, LPI, Cyclophotocoagulation): Cyclophotocoagulation procedures to reduce aqueous humor production in advanced glaucoma.
• Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Conditions: Referral to subspecialists when necessary for complex conditions.
• Comprehensive Adult and Pediatric Eye Examinations: Thorough assessment of vision, eye health, and screening for common eye diseases in patients of all ages.
• Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Reserved for glaucoma not adequately controlled by medications or laser.
• Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Risk assessment for individuals with family history or other risk factors.
• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Accurate measurement of refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, presbyopia).

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. Waite.

All ophthalmology 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 Ophthalmological Society (COS) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. A referral from a physician or optometrist may be required for consultation.

Dr. Waite practices at a specialized eye clinic located in Kelowna's Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Orchard Park Shopping Centre, making it easily accessible for patients. It is well-connected via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), allowing patients to reach the facility with public transportation. The clinic offers a welcoming and professional environment designed to provide comprehensive eye care in comfort. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots for patients with mobility needs. The facility is designed to be accessible for all, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience for every patient.

Does Dr. Waite perform cataract surgery?

Yes, cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed by Ophthalmologists like Dr. Waite. It involves removing the cloudy natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision. Dr. Waite can evaluate your cataracts and discuss the surgical options, including different types of IOLs.

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Waite?

You should see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Waite for comprehensive eye examinations, especially if you have a family history of eye disease, are over 40, or have medical conditions like diabetes that can affect your eyes. Also, seek consultation for any sudden vision changes, eye pain, injury, persistent redness, or if referred by your family doctor or optometrist for a specific eye condition.

Are services from Dr. Waite covered by provincial health insurance?

Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Waite for diagnosed eye conditions is covered under Medical Services Plan (MSP). This includes treatments for diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. Routine eye check-ups for vision testing (refraction) may not be covered for all age groups unless there's an underlying medical reason. Elective cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by provincial health insurance. Medically necessary eye exams and treatments for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Routine eye exams for glasses/contacts for adults (usually ages 19-64) may not be covered unless a specific medical condition affecting the eyes is present. Elective procedures such as cosmetic eyelid surgery or refractive laser surgery (LASIK/PRK) are generally not covered. It is recommended to verify coverage specifics with Dr. Waite's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Waite?

Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Waite for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Waite's office or seek emergency eye care as appropriate, as referral requirements may differ in emergencies. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (778) 484-7089.

What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Waite specialize in?

An Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Waite, is a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) who specializes in comprehensive eye and vision care. This includes medical diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of eye diseases and disorders, as well as prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses. a Ophthalmologist, providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

What is the difference between an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Waite and an Optometrist?

An Ophthalmologist like Dr. Waite is a medical doctor (MD/DO) who has completed medical school followed by residency training in ophthalmology. They are licensed to practice medicine and surgery, diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe medications, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Optometrists (OD) are healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive eye care, including vision testing, prescribing corrective lenses, and diagnosing and managing certain eye abnormalities and diseases (scope varies by province/territory). They typically do not perform invasive surgery.

How does Dr. Waite treat glaucoma?

For glaucoma, Dr. Waite will develop a personalized treatment plan which can involve daily eye drop medications to reduce eye pressure, in-office laser treatments to improve fluid drainage, or surgical interventions if medications and lasers are insufficient to control the pressure and protect your vision.

a specialized eye clinic in Kelowna
110 - 3030 Pandosy St
Kelowna, BC V1Y 0C4

Office Phone: (778) 484-7088 | Office Fax: (778) 484-7089

Dr. Waite is a licensed Ophthalmologist 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 or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Waite, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Waite's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/331291/Waite%2CChristopher