About
Dr. Claire Joanna Hinnell 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 Claire Hinnell Clinic Surrey in Surrey, BC, she is an integral part of the local medical community. She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. Her approach emphasizes thorough assessment and personalized treatment plans to support optimal nervous system health for her patients.
Dr. Hinnell graduated with a Medical Doctor (MD) degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada). She holds specialty certification as a Neurologist and maintains active licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), license number 65786. Her training and certification ensure adherence to the highest standards of medical practice and ongoing professional development in neurological care.
With a commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Hinnell adopts a holistic approach to neurological health, integrating evidence-based medicine with compassionate support. She is dedicated to ongoing patient education and collaborates closely with her patients and their families to navigate complex neurological conditions. She provides care in English and strives to foster a reassuring environment where patients feel heard, informed, and supported throughout their treatment journey.
Dr. Claire Hinnell 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.
- Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders
- Generalized Epilepsy (e.g., Tonic-Clonic, Absence Seizures): Seizures that affect both sides of the brain from the onset, leading to various types of convulsions or alterations in consciousness.
- Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.
- Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy: Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to treatment with two or more appropriately chosen anti-seizure medications.
Movement Disorders
- Huntington's Disease & Other Choreas: Inherited or acquired conditions causing involuntary, irregular, and unpredictable muscle movements.
- Tourette Syndrome & Tic Disorders: Neurological disorders characterized by repetitive, stereotyped, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics.
- Essential Tremor: A nervous system disorder (neurological disorder) that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking, most often in the hands.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Claire Hinnell.
- Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- 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.
- Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
- 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.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Hinnell 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.
Claire Hinnell Clinic Surrey is situated in Surrey's vibrant Guildford and Fraser Heights neighbourhoods. The clinic is conveniently located near Guildford Town Centre, providing easy access for patients. Public transit options include TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus), making it accessible for those using public transportation. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort and ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, offering flexibility for those arriving by car. The clinic's central location aims to serve the community effectively, providing a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Hinnell, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Hinnell, 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. Hinnell's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Hinnell, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Hinnell 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.
- How does Dr. Hinnell manage Parkinson's disease?
- Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Hinnell will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.
- 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. Hinnell 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.
- How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?
- Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Hinnell will work with you to identify triggers, discuss lifestyle modifications (diet, sleep, stress management), and recommend acute treatments to stop a migraine when it occurs (e.g., triptans, CGRP antagonists). For frequent or severe migraines, preventive treatments may be prescribed, which can include oral medications, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, or newer CGRP monoclonal antibodies. A personalized treatment plan is key.
Claire Hinnell Clinic Surrey
9750 140th St, Jim Pattison Out patient Centre
Surrey, BC V3T 0G9
Phone: (604) 582-4550
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hinnell 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. Hinnell 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/341878/Hinnell%2CClaire