About
Dr. Harold Peter Yacyshyn, a respected Internist / Geriatrician, focuses on evidence-based medicine and personalized care plans. Practicing in Vernon, BC, he serves the surrounding communities. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Special interests within Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care include specialty practice - internal medicine, with a particular focus on the health and well-being of adult and older adult populations.
Dr. Yacyshyn graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in 1987. He has completed extensive postgraduate training, including residency in Internal Medicine and additional certifications relevant to Geriatric Medicine. His training ensures a comprehensive approach to adult health, emphasizing the management of complex and multi-system conditions common in seniors.
His clinical philosophy is rooted in an evidence-based and informative approach, emphasizing the importance of individualized patient care. Committed to serving the Vernon community, Dr. Yacyshyn communicates fluently in English and strives to provide compassionate, thorough, and scientifically grounded medical care tailored to each patient’s needs.
Dr. Yacyshyn provides expert care for adults with a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Geriatric Syndromes & Focused Elder Care
- Cognitive Impairment & Dementia Syndromes: Comprehensive assessment for memory loss/cognitive changes; diagnosis and management of Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and others.
- Urinary Incontinence Assessment: Evaluation and management of bladder control issues common in older adults.
- Delirium Prevention & Management: Identifying risk factors for delirium (acute confusion) in hospitalized or ill older adults and implementing management strategies.
Management of Chronic Diseases
- Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of heart failure, coronary artery disease (stable), arrhythmias (like atrial fibrillation), and valvular heart disease.
- Dyslipidemia (High Cholesterol): Assessment and management of abnormal lipid levels through lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Monitoring kidney function, managing complications (anemia, bone disease, electrolytes), and strategies to slow disease progression.
Complex Diagnostic & Multi-System Issues
- Investigation of Anemia: Diagnosing the underlying cause of low red blood cell counts.
- Syncope (Fainting) Evaluation: Comprehensive work-up to determine the cause of fainting spells or loss of consciousness.
- Management of Patients with Multiple Comorbidities: Coordinating care and treatment plans for individuals managing several complex health conditions simultaneously.
Dr. Yacyshyn manages a wide range of complex adult and geriatric health conditions. This list highlights common areas of focus. If your condition is not listed, please note that internal medicine specialists address diverse and often multi-systemic diseases. Consultation is typically initiated via referral from your primary care physician.
- Caregiver Support and Education: Providing information, resources, and guidance to family members and caregivers involved in the care of an older adult.
- Non-Surgical Management of Cardiovascular Conditions: Medical management of conditions like stable coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, and hypertension.
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment: In-depth evaluation for adults with complex, unclear, or multi-system medical conditions, involving detailed history, physical examination, and coordination of necessary investigations.
- Second Opinion Consultations: Providing an independent expert review and opinion on complex diagnoses or treatment plans.
- Geriatric Psychiatry Liaison Support: Assessing and managing mood disorders (like depression, anxiety) and behavioral changes often associated with dementia or other conditions in older adults.
Note: This list represents some of the key services offered by Dr. Yacyshyn. As a specialist in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, he provides comprehensive diagnostic and management services. For specific inquiries about whether your condition falls within Dr. Yacyshyn's scope of practice, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Yacyshyn's practice is located in Central Vernon, within the Downtown neighborhood of Vernon, near the Village Green Shopping Centre. The location is easily accessible via the Vernon Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- How is payment handled for appointments with Dr. Yacyshyn? Is it covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- In BC, medical consultations with specialists like Dr. Yacyshyn are typically covered by your provincial health insurance (Medical Services Plan (MSP)) when you present a valid health card and have the required referral. You generally do not pay directly for the consultation service itself. Some specific procedures, forms, or administrative tasks might not be covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) and may incur a separate fee according to provincial guidelines. Please inquire if you have questions about uninsured services.
- Can I book an appointment directly or do I absolutely need a referral?
- A referral from your family physician or another medical specialist is required to see Dr. Yacyshyn. As experts in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Care, Internists and Geriatricians see patients based on specific medical questions posed by the referring doctor. This ensures continuity of care and that the consultation is appropriate for your needs. Please have your doctor forward the referral information.
- When should someone be referred to an Internist or Geriatrician?
- Referrals are typically appropriate for adults with complex diagnostic challenges, poorly controlled chronic diseases (like advanced Frailty Assessment & Management or Evaluation of Undifferentiated Symptoms), multiple interacting medical conditions, or unexplained symptoms. For older adults, referrals are common for geriatric syndromes such as falls, memory decline, frailty, or complex medication management (Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2)). Your family doctor can best determine if a specialist consultation is needed.
- What is involved in a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)?
- A CGA is a detailed evaluation specifically designed for older adults. It goes beyond standard medical checks to assess multiple domains including: medical conditions, medication review (polypharmacy), functional status (ability to perform daily tasks), mobility and fall risk, cognitive health (memory and thinking), mood (screening for depression/anxiety), nutrition, and social support systems. Dr. Yacyshyn uses this holistic approach to develop a personalized care plan.
- Can Dr. Harold Peter Yacyshyn provide advice on healthy aging?
- Yes, as part of a comprehensive assessment, Dr. Yacyshyn can discuss evidence-based strategies for healthy aging. This might include advice on appropriate exercise, nutrition, preventative health screenings, vaccinations, cognitive health maintenance, and managing chronic conditions effectively to promote longevity and well-being.
- What are typical wait times for an appointment?
- Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly depending on the urgency of the referral, the volume of requests, and Dr. Yacyshyn's availability. Our office prioritizes referrals based on medical need. We strive to see patients as promptly as possible and will contact you once the referral is processed to schedule an appointment. You can inquire about approximate wait times when booking.
4-3009 43 Ave
Vernon, BC V1T 3L4
Phone: (250) 545-9285 | Fax: (250) 542-9280
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Yacyshyn is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/310780/Yacyshyn%2CHarold