Dr. Graeme Douglas McCauley – Pulmonologist | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Graeme Douglas McCauley is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in Kelowna, BC, Dr. McCauley is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. McCauley 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. McCauley 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. McCauley serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions.

Dr. Graeme Douglas McCauley earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 1974. Following this, Dr. McCauley completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 51 years of specialized practice since 1974, Dr. McCauley's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. McCauley 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. McCauley's medical practice philosophy include: a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in respiratory care; a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and lifestyle; collaborating with family physicians and other specialists to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care. Dr. McCauley provides consultations in English.

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

Pleural Diseases

• Pleural Effusion: Diagnosing the cause and managing the buildup of excess fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall (pleural space).
• Pleurisy (Pleuritis): Identifying the underlying cause, such as viral infection or autoimmune disease, and managing pain and inflammation.

Lung Infections

• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Respiratory assessment and follow-up for patients undergoing treatment for tuberculosis.
• Pneumonia: Management of community-acquired, hospital-acquired, and aspiration pneumonia.

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Sarcoidosis (Pulmonary Manifestations): Monitoring lung function and managing inflammation in patients with sarcoidosis affecting the lungs.
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Diagnosing and treating lung inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled organic dusts, molds, or chemicals.
• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): Utilizing antifibrotic medications, oxygen therapy, and supportive care to manage IPF symptoms and slow progression.

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

• Comprehensive Respiratory Evaluation: Thorough assessment of respiratory health, including detailed medical history, physical examination, and review of previous tests and imaging.
• Chest Imaging Interpretation: Collaborating with radiologists to integrate imaging findings into the overall diagnostic picture for respiratory conditions.
• Bronchiectasis Management: Care for individuals with permanently damaged and widened airways to reduce exacerbations and maintain lung function.
• Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) Interpretation: Expert interpretation of a full range of pulmonary function tests (spirometry, lung volumes, diffusing capacity, bronchoprovocation) to assess lung health and diagnose conditions like asthma and COPD.
• COPD Management and Education: Developing strategies to slow disease progression, manage flare-ups, and enhance daily functioning for COPD patients.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. McCauley. 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. Graeme Douglas McCauley 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. Graeme Douglas McCauley'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. McCauley frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• If needing guidance on how to use their inhalers or CPAP machine correctly is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. McCauley develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at early detection of lung cancer, leading to better treatment options. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy carrying light loads without feeling severely winded.
• A key objective when treating trouble catching their breath after a recent illness like COVID-19 at Dr. McCauley's welcoming clinic is achieving being able to travel or engage in hobbies that were previously limited by breathlessness. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like traveling by car or plane with greater comfort.
• If wheezing sounds or a feeling of tightness in their chest when they breathe is preventing you from fully enjoying feeling more energetic and less fatigued during the day or causing significant discomfort, Dr. McCauley offers expert respiratory solutions. The primary aim is to achieve achieving better control of their asthma or COPD symptoms, with fewer flare-ups through comprehensive and personalized care.
• If concerns about a shadow or spot found on their lung X-ray or CT scan has unfortunately put going on outings with family and friends without constant worry about their breathing on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. McCauley works closely with patients towards attaining an improved overall quality of life despite living with a chronic lung condition, effectively helping them regain their previous level of respiratory function and confidence.

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

Dr. McCauley's respiratory clinic in Kelowna is situated in the Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Mission Creek Regional Park and is easily accessible via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Information regarding parking options can be provided when you call to book your appointment.

What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. McCauley 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. McCauley 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.

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

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. McCauley 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. McCauley 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.

What does a Respirologist / Pulmonologist like Dr. McCauley do?

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

How is a Respirologist different from a Thoracic Surgeon or an Allergist?

While all three may deal with conditions affecting breathing, their approaches differ. Thoracic Surgeons are surgical specialists who perform operations on organs in the chest, including the lungs (e.g., lung cancer surgery, lung biopsies). Allergists (Allergist & Clinical Immunologists) are medical specialists who diagnose and treat allergic conditions, which can include allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis, often using immunotherapy and medication. Respirologists like Dr. McCauley are medical specialists focused on the non-surgical diagnosis and medical management of a broad range of lung and respiratory diseases, using medications, inhaler therapies, diagnostic procedures like bronchoscopy, and management of conditions like COPD and sleep apnea. They often coordinate long-term care for chronic respiratory illnesses.

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

The first visit with Dr. McCauley 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. McCauley 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. McCauley will discuss their 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.

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

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

2268 Pandosy St, Kelowna General Hospital
Kelowna, BC, V1Y 1T2

Phone: (250) 862-4000

Dr. Graeme Douglas McCauley 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: 5124

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/351108/McCauley%2CGraeme

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