About
Dr. Dwight Alfred Nicholas Ferris is a dedicated Infectious Disease Specialist, committed to providing expert medical care for patients with infectious diseases. Practicing at an infectious disease clinic in Kelowna in Kelowna, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized infectious disease care in the community. The clinic adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality and safe patient care. It offers expert consultation and management for a broad range of infectious diseases, supported by advanced diagnostic capabilities and current treatment guidelines. The environment is professional and discreet, designed to meet the needs of patients requiring specialized infectious disease care. On-site or nearby public parking is generally available for patients, and the clinic is conveniently accessible via Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), located in the Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighborhoods, near Rutland Centennial Park.
Dr. Ferris graduated with an MD from Queen's University in 1996. Following medical school, he completed residency training in Internal Medicine and subsequently pursued a fellowship in Infectious Diseases, earning board certification as an Infectious Disease Specialist through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His extensive postgraduate training in infectious diseases underpins his expertise in managing complex cases and providing evidence-based care.
With a professional philosophy rooted in precision, evidence-based medicine, and patient-centered care, Dr. Ferris is committed to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of infectious diseases. He emphasizes educating patients about their conditions and infection prevention strategies, promotes antimicrobial stewardship to combat antibiotic resistance, and focuses on managing infections in vulnerable populations and complex cases. Collaborating closely with primary care physicians, public health authorities, and other specialists, he aims to optimize both individual patient outcomes and community health. All communication and care are delivered in English, with a dedicated focus on the health and well-being of residents in Kelowna.
Dr. Dwight Ferris provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of infectious diseases, including:
Common Bacterial Infections
Dr. Ferris manages a wide range of illnesses caused by bacteria, affecting various parts of the body.
- Sepsis and Bacteremia (Bloodstream Infections): Life-threatening conditions caused by the body's overwhelming response to an infection, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure, and death.
- Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (e.g., Cellulitis, Abscesses): May require oral or intravenous antibiotics, and sometimes surgical drainage for abscesses.
- Pneumonia (Bacterial): Treatment depends on the causative bacteria and severity.
Infections in Immunocompromised Patients
Dr. Ferris manages includes patients with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, cancer patients on chemotherapy, and those on immunosuppressive medications.
- Primary Immunodeficiency-Associated Infections: Diagnosis and management of recurrent or unusual infections in individuals with inherited defects in their immune system.
- Infections in Patients on Biologics or Immunomodulatory Drugs: Vigilance for opportunistic infections.
- Infections in Cancer Patients (Oncology): Close collaboration with oncologists.
Fungal and Parasitic Infections
Dr. Ferris manages diagnosis can be challenging and often requires specialized laboratory tests.
- Giardiasis and Other Intestinal Parasitic Infections: Diagnosis via stool microscopy or antigen tests; treated with specific antiparasitic medications.
- Endemic Mycoses (e.g., Histoplasmosis, Blastomycosis - region dependent): Diagnosis and treatment based on travel history, exposure, and clinical presentation.
- Systemic Fungal Infections (e.g., Candidiasis, Aspergillosis): Requires aggressive antifungal therapy and management of underlying immune deficiencies.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. Dwight Ferris is necessary.
- Management of Common and Uncommon Infections: Expertise in selecting targeted therapies to optimize outcomes and minimize resistance.
- Bone and Joint Infections (Osteomyelitis, Septic Arthritis): Diagnosis and long-term antimicrobial management of infections affecting bones and joints.
- Infections Related to Medical Devices and Implants: Management of infections associated with prosthetic joints, pacemakers, catheters, and other implanted medical devices.
- Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Consultation: Guidance on outbreak management and implementation of IPC best practices.
- Tuberculosis (TB) Diagnosis and Management: Management of complex TB treatment regimens, including drug-resistant TB.
Antimicrobial Stewardship and Management: Promoting the appropriate use of antimicrobial agents to enhance patient outcomes, reduce microbial resistance, and decrease the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific diagnostic and treatment plans are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Ferris.
All infectious disease services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant associations such as AMMI Canada and PHAC. A referral from a physician is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Ferris practices primarily at an infectious disease clinic located in the heart of Kelowna, BC, in the Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, and Downtown neighborhoods. The clinic is situated near Rutland Centennial Park, providing a scenic and accessible environment for patients. Easily reachable via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), the clinic offers convenient access for those using public transportation. The facility is equipped for infectious disease consultations and follow-up care, ensuring a professional and discreet environment for patients requiring specialized infectious disease services. On-site or nearby public parking is generally available for patient convenience, making it accessible for both local residents and visitors.
- What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Ferris?
- As an Infectious Disease Specialist, Dr. Ferris manages numerous types of infections. These frequently include severe skin and soft tissue infections, pneumonia, bloodstream infections, sexually transmitted infections, travel-related illnesses, and infections requiring long-term or complex antibiotic therapy. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a wide spectrum of infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
- When should I see an Infectious Disease Specialist like Dr. Ferris?
- A consultation with Dr. Ferris is recommended for specialized management of infections such as tuberculosis, bone and joint infections, or infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Patients needing pre-travel advice for complex itineraries or those returning from travel with unusual symptoms may also benefit from their expertise. Your primary care physician will usually coordinate a referral.
- What does an Infectious Disease Specialist like Dr. Ferris specialize in?
- Dr. Ferris is an Infectious Disease Specialist, a physician expert in the intricate world of infections. He provides comprehensive care for various infectious conditions, from common illnesses to rare tropical diseases, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and infections requiring specialized antimicrobial therapy. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a wide spectrum of infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
- What is Dr. Ferris's role in antibiotic stewardship?
- Dr. Ferris contributes to antibiotic stewardship by promoting judicious antibiotic prescribing. This helps combat the growing problem of drug-resistant bacteria. He advises on appropriate antibiotic selection and duration for complex infections, and may be involved in hospital or community programs to improve antibiotic use.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ferris?
- For most consultations with Dr. Ferris that are medically necessary and covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP), a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is typically needed. This helps in coordinating your care effectively and ensures all relevant information is shared. In urgent inpatient situations, referrals are often made directly by the hospital team. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (250) 862-4186.
an infectious disease clinic in Kelowna
2268 Pandosy St, Kelowna General Hospital, Infectious Diseases
Kelowna, BC V1Y 1T2
Office Phone: (250) 862-4157 | Office Fax: (250) 862-4186 | Practice Website: http://www.bcdoctordirectory.ca/kelowna
Dr. Ferris is a licensed Infectious Disease Specialist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in British Columbia. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Ferris, particularly for services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Ferris's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/312709/Ferris%2CDwight