Dr. Jacobus Hercules Steyn – Cardiologist | Kamloops, BC

With expertise in Cardiology, Dr. Jacobus Hercules Steyn provides comprehensive consultations and follow-up care for heart-related conditions. Practicing in Kamloops, BC, he serves patients from the surrounding region. Dr. Steyn adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that all aspects of patient care meet provincial regulations and best practices. His practice primarily focuses on adult cardiology, offering patient-centered, compassionate care tailored to individual needs.

Dr. Steyn graduated with a MB ChB from the University of the Orange Free State in 1997 in South Africa. He has completed extensive postgraduate training in Cardiology, including certifications recognized by the College Registration Committee and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His credentials attest to his comprehensive training and commitment to maintaining clinical excellence.

His clinical philosophy is rooted in reassuring and patient-focused care. Dr. Steyn is dedicated to guiding his patients through their cardiovascular health journey with clarity and compassion. Fluent in English and Afrikaans, he strives to ensure effective communication and understanding with his diverse patient community in Kamloops.

Dr. Steyn provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:

Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management

• Advanced Dyslipidemia (Cholesterol) Management: Treatment of complex or severe cholesterol disorders, especially in patients with high cardiovascular risk or medication intolerance.
• Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.
• Primary & Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: Developing comprehensive strategies (lifestyle and medical) to prevent a first heart event or subsequent events in high-risk individuals.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease

• Post-Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) Care: Comprehensive follow-up care focused on recovery, secondary prevention, risk factor management, and medication optimization after a heart attack.
• Stable Angina Pectoris: Managing chest discomfort or pressure caused by narrowed heart arteries, typically occurring during exertion or stress.
• Management after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery: Long-term medical care, risk factor control, and lifestyle guidance following heart bypass surgery.

Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy

• Management Post-Heart Transplant: Specialized follow-up care for patients who have received a heart transplant (often in dedicated clinics).
• Cardiomyopathy (Various Types): Diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the heart muscle itself, such as dilated, hypertrophic, or restrictive cardiomyopathy.
• Congestive Heart Failure (Systolic & Diastolic): Comprehensive management including optimizing medications, managing symptoms (fluid retention, shortness of breath), and improving quality of life.

Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Steyn is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.

• Ambulatory ECG (Holter & Event Monitor) Interpretation: Analyzing recordings from portable heart monitors worn for 24 hours up to several weeks to diagnose intermittent arrhythmias or correlate symptoms with heart rhythm.
• Anticoagulation Management (e.g., for AFib, Clots): Managing blood-thinning medications to prevent stroke or blood clots, including monitoring and dose adjustments.
• Consultation for Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea): Investigating the potential cardiac causes of breathlessness.
• Cardiovascular Risk Factor Assessment & Modification: Comprehensive evaluation of individual risk factors (smoking, diet, exercise, family history, etc.) and developing personalized prevention strategies.
• Lipid Management (Cholesterol Treatment): Specialized management of high cholesterol and other lipid disorders using lifestyle advice and medication to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Steyn. The specific services required will depend on your individual diagnosis and referral. Please discuss specific service needs with your referring physician.

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. Steyn primarily practices at Royal Inland Hospital, located in the Downtown Kamloops area, within the South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhood. The hospital is conveniently near Aberdeen Mall and accessible via the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.

Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Steyn covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?

Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Steyn are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid health card and a required referral. Most medically necessary diagnostic tests ordered by a cardiologist (like ECGs, standard echocardiograms, stress tests) are also usually covered. Some advanced tests or specific procedures might have different coverage rules or require pre-approval. It's always best to confirm specific coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the testing facility.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Steyn?

Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Steyn. This ensures the consultation is appropriate for your medical needs and facilitates coordination of your care. Please ask your doctor to send a referral request.

What is an Interventional Cardiologist?

An Interventional Cardiologist is a Cardiologist with additional specialized training in performing catheter-based procedures like angioplasty and stenting to treat blocked coronary arteries. While Dr. Steyn provides expert medical management, he may refer patients to an interventional colleague if these procedures are indicated. As an Interventional Cardiologist, Dr. Steyn performs procedures like angioplasty and stenting in addition to providing cardiology consultations.

What is Holter monitoring?

A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that records your heart's electrical activity (ECG) continuously, typically for 24 to 48 hours, while you go about your normal daily activities. It's used to detect heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmias) that may not occur during a standard brief ECG in the office.

Does Dr. Steyn replace my family doctor for general care?

No, Dr. Steyn focuses specifically on your cardiovascular health as a specialist consultant. Your family doctor remains central to your overall healthcare, managing other health issues and coordinating routine care. Dr. Steyn collaborates closely with your family doctor, providing reports and recommendations.

Royal Inland Hospital
311 Columbia St
Kamloops, BC V2C 2T1

Phone: (250) 374-5111 | Fax: (888) 841-4013

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Steyn 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/334317/Steyn%2CJacobus