Dr. James Douglas Niven Taylor – Ophthalmologist | Victoria, BC

Dr. James Douglas Niven Taylor is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at a specialized eye clinic in Victoria, BC, he is a trusted provider of comprehensive eye care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring quality and safety in all treatments. As a skilled Ophthalmologist, he offers a full spectrum of services from routine eye examinations and vision correction to the management of complex eye diseases and surgical interventions. The clinic provides a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.

He graduated with an MD and Master of Surgery (CM) from McGill University in 1983. With extensive postgraduate training, he has become an experienced Ophthalmologist with comprehensive expertise. He holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his commitment to professional excellence and ongoing education in eye care.

Dr. Taylor's professional philosophy centers on preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. He believes in educating patients about their eye health and involving them in treatment decisions. He utilizes advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies to ensure precise and effective treatments. His focus on early detection and management of eye diseases aims to prevent vision loss, and he collaborates closely with other healthcare professionals for comprehensive patient well-being. All patient communication and care are conducted in English, emphasizing clarity and understanding. Dr. Taylor is dedicated to maintaining optimal eye health and vision in Victoria residents.

Dr. James Taylor provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

Dr. Taylor addresses includes prescription of eyeglasses and contact lenses, as well as assessment for refractive surgery options.

• Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.
• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): May cause eye strain or headaches, especially with close work.
• Myopia (Nearsightedness): Often develops in childhood and can progress through adolescence.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Taylor addresses a leading cause of reversible vision impairment, especially in older adults.

• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Can significantly impact visual development and requires prompt surgical intervention if visually significant.
• Age-Related Cataracts: Clouding of the eye's natural lens that occurs as part of the aging process, leading to blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night.
• Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: Malposition of an implanted artificial lens or the eye's natural lens, often due to trauma or zonular weakness.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. Taylor addresses early detection and lifelong management are crucial to preserving sight.

• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Management focuses on lowering eye pressure further and addressing other potential risk factors.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): Acute angle-closure is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
• Congenital or Childhood Glaucoma: Requires prompt surgical intervention to control eye pressure and prevent blindness.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. James Taylor is necessary.

• Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Early detection and ongoing monitoring of glaucoma progression.
• Medical Management of Glaucoma (Prescription Eye Drops): Regular follow-up to assess treatment efficacy and side effects.
• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Guidance on lens options and proper eye care for lens wearers.
• Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (Femtosecond Laser): May improve corneal incisions, capsulotomy creation, and lens fragmentation.
• Comprehensive Adult and Pediatric Eye Examinations: Baseline evaluations and routine check-ups for maintaining optimal eye health.
• Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Reserved for glaucoma not adequately controlled by medications or laser.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. Taylor.

All ophthalmology 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 Ophthalmological Society (COS) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. A referral from a physician or optometrist may be required for consultation.

Dr. Taylor practices at a specialized eye clinic located in the Fairfield East neighborhood of Victoria, BC. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, making it easily accessible to residents and visitors alike. Patients can reach the clinic via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), with nearby bus stops providing convenient access. The facility is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, featuring modern amenities and a welcoming environment. Parking is typically available near the clinic, with some accessible spots for those with mobility needs. The clinic provides comprehensive eye care in a professional setting dedicated to patient comfort and quality service.

What are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. Taylor?

Dr. Taylor treats a wide array of eye conditions. Common ones include refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism), cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and eyelid disorders. Depending on any subspecialty training, he may also manage more complex retinal, corneal, or neuro-ophthalmic conditions. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

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

Medically necessary services provided by an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Taylor, such as the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases (e.g., glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy) and medically indicated surgeries (e.g., cataract surgery), are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Medical Services Plan (MSP). However, routine eye exams for adults of certain age groups without specific medical conditions, and procedures considered cosmetic (like elective refractive surgery or some eyelid procedures) are typically not covered. It's advisable to confirm coverage details with Dr. Taylor's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP). Medically necessary eye exams and treatments for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). Routine eye exams for glasses/contacts for adults (usually ages 19-64) may not be covered unless a specific medical condition affecting the eyes is present. Elective procedures such as cosmetic eyelid surgery or refractive laser surgery (LASIK/PRK) are generally not covered. It is recommended to verify coverage specifics with Dr. Taylor's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Taylor?

For most consultations with an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Taylor that are covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or an optometrist is typically required. This ensures that your visit is appropriate and that Dr. Taylor receives relevant medical history. For some urgent eye conditions or specific services, direct access might be possible, but it's always best to check with Dr. Taylor's office regarding their referral policy. Please have your doctor's office or optometrist contact Dr. Taylor's clinic for referral instructions.

How does Dr. Taylor treat glaucoma?

Dr. Taylor manages glaucoma with the goal of lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatment options may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy (like SLT or LPI), or surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage devices, or Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). The specific approach depends on the type and severity of glaucoma.

What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Taylor specialize in?

Dr. Taylor is an Ophthalmologist, a physician with extensive training in all aspects of eye health. He provides complete eye exams, diagnoses conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and retinal diseases, and can perform complex eye surgeries. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Taylor?

You should see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Taylor for comprehensive eye examinations, especially if you have a family history of eye disease, are over 40, or have medical conditions like diabetes that can affect your eyes. Also, seek consultation for any sudden vision changes, eye pain, injury, persistent redness, or if referred by your family doctor or optometrist for a specific eye condition.

Does Dr. Taylor perform cataract surgery?

Yes, cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed by Ophthalmologists like Dr. Taylor. It involves removing the cloudy natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision. Dr. Taylor can evaluate your cataracts and discuss the surgical options, including different types of IOLs.

a specialized eye clinic in Victoria
312-1964 Fort St
Victoria, BC V8R 6R3

Office Phone: (250) 595-1223

Dr. Taylor is a licensed Ophthalmologist 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 optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Taylor, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Taylor's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/307213/Taylor%2CJames