Dr. Edward James Lawson – Pulmonologist | Surrey, BC

Dr. Edward James Lawson is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in Surrey, BC, Dr. Lawson is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Lawson 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. Lawson 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. Lawson serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions.

Dr. Edward James Lawson earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of Western Ontario, graduating in 1994. Following this, Dr. Lawson completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 31 years of specialized practice since 1994, Dr. Lawson's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Lawson 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. Lawson's medical practice philosophy include: a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in respiratory care; 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. Dr. Lawson provides consultations in English.

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

Lung Infections

• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Managing the lung-related aspects of this infectious bacterial disease.
• Pneumonia: Management of community-acquired, hospital-acquired, and aspiration pneumonia.
• Bronchitis (Acute): Differentiating from chronic bronchitis and providing symptomatic relief for short-term airway inflammation.

Pleural Diseases

• Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung - Follow-up Care): Providing follow-up care and management after a pneumothorax (air in the pleural space causing lung collapse) to ensure resolution and prevent recurrence.
• Pleurisy (Pleuritis): Identifying the underlying cause, such as viral infection or autoimmune disease, and managing pain and inflammation.

Airway Diseases

• Emphysema: A major component of COPD, characterized by destruction of lung tissue and impaired gas exchange.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Management strategies for COPD, including medication, smoking cessation support, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
• Chronic Bronchitis: A component of COPD, managed with strategies to reduce airway inflammation and improve mucus clearance.

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Identifying and eliminating exposure to the offending antigen, and managing airway inflammation with medication if needed.
• Sarcoidosis (Pulmonary Manifestations): Managing the lung involvement of sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of granulomas in various organs.

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

• Diagnostic Bronchoscopy: Performing flexible bronchoscopy to directly visualize the airways, obtain biopsies, and collect samples for diagnosing lung infections, inflammation, or cancer.
• Asthma Management and Education: Ongoing management and support for individuals living with asthma of all severities.
• Bronchiectasis Management: Care for individuals with permanently damaged and widened airways to reduce exacerbations and maintain lung function.
• Inhaler Technique and Respiratory Device Training: Helping patients master the use of their respiratory equipment to improve medication delivery to the lungs.
• Pleural Effusion Management: Diagnosing the cause of pleural effusions (fluid around the lungs) and managing them, which may include therapeutic thoracentesis (fluid drainage) in an outpatient setting if appropriate.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Lawson. 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. Edward James Lawson 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. Edward James Lawson'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. Lawson frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• When patients discuss their child having persistent coughing, wheezing, or frequent respiratory illnesses, Dr. Lawson outlines a path to feeling empowered to take an active role in their respiratory care, aiming to restore not just respiratory health but also the ability to comfortably singing or playing a wind instrument if that's a passion.
• Understanding the frustration snoring very loudly, choking or gasping for air during sleep, and feeling tired all day can cause, Dr. Lawson tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve successful navigation of the diagnostic process for a complex lung issue, allowing for renewed participation in activities like traveling by car or plane with greater comfort.
• The path to improved respiratory wellness, especially when facing living with COPD (emphysema or chronic bronchitis) and wanting to breathe better, involves working systematically towards feeling more confident in managing their respiratory condition day-to-day. Dr. Lawson expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including laughing heartily without triggering a coughing fit or severe breathlessness.
• Dr. Lawson's comprehensive care for needing to manage their oxygen therapy effectively at home is meticulously designed to result in clear guidance on managing their condition and when to seek urgent care. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as taking deep, satisfying breaths more often without severe breathing worries.

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

Dr. Lawson's respiratory clinic in Surrey is situated in the West Newton, Strawberry Hill neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the Future SkyTrain Extension and is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). Information regarding parking options can be provided when you call to book your appointment.

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

The first visit with Dr. Lawson 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. Lawson 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. Lawson will discuss his 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 are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Lawson 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. Lawson 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. Lawson do?

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Lawson 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.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Lawson 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. Lawson 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.

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

Yes, in BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Respirologist like Dr. Lawson 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. Lawson has the necessary background medical information. Patients should speak with their primary care physician or referring doctor if they believe they need a respiratory assessment.

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

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Lawson 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. Lawson 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.

402-13761 96 Ave
Surrey, BC, V3V 0E8

Phone: (778) 293-0592

Dr. Edward James Lawson 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: 25869

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/312519/Lawson%2CEdward

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is typically required to see Dr. Lawson. Dr. Lawson 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.