Dr. Ioana Smirnov – Family Doctor | Victoria, BC

Dr. Ioana Smirnov is a Family Doctor. Practicing at a family doctor practice in Victoria, BC, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. She is registered with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and practices in accordance with the standards set by this regulatory body and the principles of modern family medicine. She focuses on providing continuous and comprehensive primary medical care for individuals and families across all ages and stages of life. This includes preventative care, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses, and management of ongoing health needs, serving as the central point for patient care. She serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.

Dr. Ioana Smirnov completed her MD (University of British Columbia, 2011). She brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. She holds Certification in the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CCFP). She has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. She is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.

Key aspects of her practice philosophy include empowering patients through clear communication, comprehensive health education, and fostering active participation in their own health decisions; a commitment to evidence-based medicine, integrating the latest research with clinical expertise to provide the highest standard of care; a holistic approach to health, considering the physical, mental, emotional, and social factors that influence a patient's well-being. She provides consultations in English.

Dr. Ioana Smirnov provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Chronic Conditions

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD - Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis): Ongoing primary care for COPD, empowering patients with self-management techniques and coordinating care with respiratory specialists when necessary.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Primary Care Management: Diagnosing IBS based on symptom criteria after ruling out other conditions, and providing primary care management strategies including dietary advice (e.g., low FODMAP diet introduction, fiber management), lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and symptomatic treatment for abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) & Associated Cardiovascular Risk Factors: Individualized, evidence-based care plans for individuals living with hypertension, focusing on patient education, shared decision-making, and promoting long-term adherence to treatment for optimal cardiovascular health.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) - Early to Moderate Stages: Working collaboratively with patients to manage their kidney health through regular check-ups, proactive interventions, and coordination with specialist renal services when appropriate.

Common Acute Conditions

• Headaches (Tension-type, Migraine - Acute Symptomatic Relief): Providing prompt care for sudden or severe headaches, offering effective relief, and establishing a plan for ongoing management if headaches are recurrent or chronic.
• Common Acute Skin Conditions (Rashes, Infections, Bites, Minor Burns): Managing various acute dermatological conditions with appropriate topical or oral medications (antibiotics, antifungals, corticosteroids, antihistamines) to alleviate itching, redness, pain, swelling, and discomfort.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - Cystitis, Pyelonephritis - uncomplicated initial): Prompt diagnosis (e.g., urinalysis, urine culture if needed) and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections such as cystitis (bladder infection) and initial assessment/management of suspected uncomplicated pyelonephritis (kidney infection) to alleviate discomfort (dysuria, frequency, urgency, flank pain) and prevent complications.

Mental Health Concerns

• Initial Assessment & Referral for Other Mental Health Concerns (e.g., OCD, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis): Providing a safe and confidential first point of contact for individuals experiencing symptoms suggestive of other mental health conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, bipolar disorder, or early psychosis. Includes initial screening, supportive listening, crisis intervention if needed, risk assessment, and prompt, appropriate referral to specialized psychiatric, psychological, or emergency mental health services for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.
• Depression & Other Mood Disorders (e.g., Dysthymia, Seasonal Affective Disorder - Management): Assessing symptoms of depression (low mood, loss of interest/pleasure, fatigue, changes in sleep/appetite) and other mood disorders. Offering empathetic supportive counseling, discussing and initiating treatment options including lifestyle interventions, evidence-based antidepressant medications, and facilitating referrals to psychotherapy or psychiatry for moderate to severe or treatment-resistant cases.
• Insomnia & Chronic Sleep Disturbances: Thoroughly evaluating persistent sleep problems (difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep, early morning awakening, non-restorative sleep), offering education on optimal sleep hygiene, principles of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) or facilitating referrals for it, addressing underlying contributing factors (e.g., anxiety, pain, medications, restless legs syndrome), and judiciously considering short-term medication if necessary.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Smirnov. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Routine Health Check-ups & Physicals for Adults: Providing regular comprehensive health assessments for adults of all ages to monitor overall health status, review lifestyle factors, update immunizations, and perform or coordinate age and gender-appropriate preventative screenings.
• Joint Injections for Pain Relief (e.g., Corticosteroid - if trained/equipped): Providing in-office joint injections to alleviate symptoms and improve function in selected musculoskeletal conditions.
• Referrals to Medical Specialists, Subspecialists & Specialized Programs: Ensuring seamless access to specialized medical care through efficient and well-documented referrals, acting as your central coordinator and advocate within the healthcare system.
• Chronic Respiratory Disease Care (Asthma, COPD, Chronic Bronchitis): Support and treatment for chronic lung diseases, including referrals for pulmonary rehabilitation and specialist care when indicated.
• Hypertension & Lipid Disorder Management (High Blood Pressure & Cholesterol): Expert care to help you achieve and maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol targets, preventing long-term complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Smirnov. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in BC and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Ioana Smirnov's practice, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. Smirnov frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• Dr. Smirnov assists individuals in navigating needing help to manage side effects from a new medication prescribed by a specialist. A successful outcome, like their legitimate concerns about potential medication side effects or adverse drug reactions being taken seriously and investigated thoroughly by Dr. Smirnov, often leading to helpful and safe adjustments in their prescribed treatment plan, means they can get back to regularly engaging in deeply personal spiritual practices, reflective mindfulness exercises, or formal meditation sessions that significantly contribute to their inner peace, emotional balance, stress reduction, and overall holistic well-being.
• The focus for patients with a suspicious mole or skin lesion that has changed in size, shape, or color, or started to itch or bleed at Dr. Smirnov's practice is achieving learning effective, personalized, and evidence-based strategies for managing chronic daily stress, significantly improving their sleep quality and duration, or coping more adaptively and resiliently with life's inevitable challenges and adversities, with tools provided by Dr. Smirnov, facilitating a return to meaningful activities like actively and diligently engaging in their prescribed recovery process and rehabilitation program after an unexpected injury, a planned surgery, or a significant medical event by consistently following all professional advice and exercises.
• For many individuals, getting advice on how to manage shift work and its impact on their health can be a real barrier. Dr. Smirnov's approach focuses on achieving feeling a genuine, strong, and enduring sense of partnership and close collaboration with Dr. Smirnov in working consistently and effectively towards their mutually agreed-upon, meaningful health goals and overall state of well-being, making it possible for patients to once again enjoy fully enjoying intimate moments and maintaining healthy, satisfying sexual relationships without the intrusion of physical pain, health-related anxiety, medication side effects, or concerns about performance.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Smirnov, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. She believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. Smirnov's practice is located at a family medical clinic in Victoria, situated in the Victoria West, Esquimalt (overlaps) neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near Antique Row and is accessible via Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor, often called a general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor specializing in comprehensive primary healthcare for individuals and families across all ages and life stages. They serve as your first point of contact for most health concerns, offering preventative care (like check-ups, immunizations, and health screenings), diagnosing and treating acute illnesses (such as infections or minor injuries), managing chronic conditions (like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma), providing mental health support, and coordinating your care by referring you to specialists when necessary. A key aspect of their role is building long-term relationships with patients to promote overall health and well-being.

Can Dr. Smirnov help with mental health concerns like anxiety or depression?

Yes, as your family doctor, Dr. Smirnov plays a crucial role in mental healthcare. She is often the first point of contact for individuals experiencing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress-related issues, sleep problems, or concerns about substance use. Dr. Smirnov can provide an initial assessment, offer supportive counseling and lifestyle strategies, prescribe medication if appropriate and indicated, and make referrals to specialized mental health services such as psychiatrists, psychologists, or community mental health programs if more intensive or specialized care is needed. Dr. Smirnov can provide ongoing support and management for many common mental health conditions.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in British Columbia if that doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Resources such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia website or your local health authority may be helpful in your search. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see most medical specialists.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC for eligible residents with a valid health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures, travel medicine consultations, sick notes, insurance forms, and driver's medicals, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific services or potential fees.

What if Dr. Smirnov works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. Smirnov?

Dr. Smirnov practices as part of a team-based practice, which means you have access to a range of healthcare professionals. While the goal is to promote continuity with Dr. Smirnov, for some routine follow-ups or specific services, you might be seen by another trusted member of the team. This collaborative approach can enhance access to care. The clinic will always strive to have you see Dr. Smirnov for complex or ongoing issues.

How do I get a prescription refilled by Dr. Smirnov?

For most prescription refills, contact your pharmacy at least 5-7 days before you run out of medication. Your pharmacy can often fax a refill request to Dr. Smirnov's office. Allow at least 2-3 business days for processing. For certain medications (e.g., narcotics), or if it has been a while since your last review, an appointment will be required. It is always best to request refills proactively.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC who is accepting new patients?

Check the website of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia, which often has a "Find a Doctor" tool. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local community health centres or new patient clinics. Finding a family doctor may take time.

205-1497 Admirals Rd, Grow Health
Victoria, BC, V9A 2P8

Phone: (250) 474-7715

Dr. Ioana Smirnov is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Registration Number: 66135

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/332420/Smirnov%2CIoana

Family doctors like Dr. Smirnov are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.