Dr. Elliott Shannon Chum – Nephrologist | Abbotsford, BC

Dr. Elliott Shannon Chum is a dedicated Nephrologist, committed to providing exceptional medical care for adult patients with kidney conditions. Practicing at a specialized nephrology clinic in Abbotsford in Abbotsford, BC, he is a trusted provider of comprehensive kidney care in the community. His practice is rooted in the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). As a Nephrologist, he specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive management of kidney diseases, including chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, hypertension, and electrolyte disorders. The clinic offers a welcoming and professional environment, ensuring patients receive personalized care tailored to their specific needs. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, with on-site or nearby public parking generally available, and easy access via the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit).

Dr. Chum graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in 2002. Following medical school, he completed a residency in Internal Medicine, followed by specialized fellowship training in Nephrology. He is a board-certified Nephrologist with over 17 years of focused experience since 2007. His key certifications include Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to maintaining high standards of clinical excellence and ongoing professional development.

His professional philosophy centers on early detection, prevention of disease progression, and comprehensive management of kidney-related conditions. Dr. Chum is dedicated to preserving kidney function and improving the quality of life for his patients. He emphasizes patient education, empowering individuals and their families to understand their health conditions and actively participate in treatment decisions. Utilizing evidence-based medicine and the latest therapies, he aims for optimal patient outcomes through collaborative care with primary care physicians, dietitians, social workers, and other healthcare professionals. All communication and patient care are conducted in English, with a compassionate approach focused on holistic well-being in Abbotsford.

Dr. Elliott Chum provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of kidney conditions, including:

Hypertension and Electrolyte Disorders

Dr. Chum addresses nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and treating complex cases.

• Disorders of Potassium Balance (Hypokalemia, Hyperkalemia): Abnormally low or high potassium levels in the blood, which can affect heart rhythm and muscle function.
• Secondary Hypertension: Treating the underlying cause can often improve or resolve the hypertension.
• Acid-Base Disorders (Acidosis, Alkalosis): Imbalances in the body's pH level, either too acidic (acidosis) or too alkaline (alkalosis).

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)

Dr. Chum addresses causes kidneys to lose their filtering ability, leading to a build-up of waste products and fluid imbalance.

• Intrinsic AKI (Renal AKI): Direct damage to the kidney tissues, such as acute tubular necrosis (ATN) from toxins or ischemia, glomerulonephritis, or interstitial nephritis.
• Pre-renal AKI: Caused by reduced blood flow to the kidneys, often due to severe dehydration, blood loss, heart failure, or sepsis.
• Contrast-Induced Nephropathy: A form of AKI that can occur after exposure to iodinated contrast media used in imaging procedures.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dr. Chum addresses early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with CKD.

• Mineral and Bone Disorder of CKD (CKD-MBD): Managed with dietary restrictions, phosphate binders, vitamin D supplements, and calcimimetics.
• Advanced CKD (Stages 4-5, Non-Dialysis): Discussions about dialysis options and kidney transplantation.
• Early Stages of CKD (Stages 1-3): Focus on controlling risk factors (blood pressure, blood sugar), lifestyle modifications, and avoiding kidney-damaging medications.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your kidney health, a consultation with Dr. Elliott Chum is necessary.

• Glomerular Disease (Glomerulonephritis) Diagnosis and Treatment: Specialized care for complex autoimmune and inflammatory kidney conditions.
• Comprehensive Nephrology Consultation: Thorough assessment of kidney function, diagnosis of kidney diseases, and development of personalized management plans.
• Medical Management of Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Evaluation for underlying causes of recurrent kidney stones.
• Management of Diabetic Kidney Disease (Diabetic Nephropathy): Focus on blood sugar control, blood pressure management, and use of kidney-protective medications.
• Electrolyte and Acid-Base Disorder Management: Often crucial in hospitalized patients or those with advanced kidney disease.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and Other Genetic Kidney Disorders Management: Comprehensive care for patients with inherited kidney diseases such as Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD).

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation and consultation with Dr. Chum.

All nephrology 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 Society of Nephrology (CSN) and Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. A referral from a physician or another specialist is generally required for consultation.

Dr. Chum's primary nephrology clinic is located in the heart of Abbotsford's Central Abbotsford, Mill Lake Area neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Abbotsford Auto Mall, easily accessible by the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit). Patients can enjoy the professional and welcoming environment designed to provide comprehensive kidney care. The facility offers ample parking, with on-site or nearby public parking generally available, ensuring a smooth and accessible visit for all patients. The clinic's strategic location and accessible facilities aim to support patients in receiving timely and effective nephrology services in a comfortable setting.

How does Dr. Chum help manage high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Dr. Chum, as a Nephrologist, has expertise in managing hypertension, especially if it's severe, resistant to standard treatments, or caused by kidney disease. He can investigate underlying causes, optimize medication regimens, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes to effectively control blood pressure, which is crucial for protecting kidney health and overall cardiovascular well-being.

What is involved in the kidney transplant process with a Nephrologist like Dr. Chum?

As a Nephrologist, Dr. Chum plays a crucial role in the kidney transplant process. This includes evaluating your suitability for a transplant, managing your health while on the waiting list, coordinating with the transplant surgical team, and providing comprehensive medical care after the transplant to manage immunosuppressive medications and monitor for complications or rejection. He works as part of a multidisciplinary transplant team.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Chum?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see a Nephrologist like Dr. Chum for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP)). This ensures that Dr. Chum receives important medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your condition. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (604) 864-8719.

What is the difference between a Nephrologist like Dr. Chum and a Urologist?

The key difference lies in their approach: Dr. Chum, as a Nephrologist, is an expert in the medical treatment of kidney diseases and functional kidney problems (e.g., how well kidneys filter blood, manage electrolytes, and produce urine). A Urologist is a surgeon who deals with physical problems of the urinary system, including surgical removal of kidney stones or tumors, and issues with the bladder, ureters, and male reproductive organs. They often collaborate on patient care.

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

Medically necessary services provided by a Nephrologist like Dr. Chum, such as consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and kidney transplant-related care, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Medical Services Plan (MSP). Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests for kidney disease, management of chronic kidney disease, dialysis treatments (hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis), and medical care related to kidney transplantation are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Preventive counseling for high-risk individuals referred by a physician is also typically covered. It's always best to confirm coverage specifics with Dr. Chum's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) directly, as some specific tests or newer adjunctive therapies might have varying coverage.

What are the main types of dialysis Dr. Chum might discuss?

Dr. Chum can explain various dialysis options if needed. The two main types are hemodialysis, where blood is cleaned outside the body by a machine, and peritoneal dialysis, where a solution is put into your abdomen to clean the blood internally. Both have different schedules and requirements, and Dr. Chum would help determine suitability based on individual patient needs.

a specialized nephrology clinic in Abbotsford
103-1945 McCallum Rd
Abbotsford, BC V2S 3N2

Office Phone: (604) 870-9886 | Office Fax: (604) 864-8719

Dr. Chum is a licensed Nephrologist 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 another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Chum, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Chum's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/326465/Chum%2CElliott