About
Dr. James Lachlan Scott is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at a neurology clinic within a hospital department in Victoria, BC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. Dr. Scott adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe, effective, and patient-centered neurological care. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His approach emphasizes precise diagnosis, tailored treatment plans, and ongoing support to optimize nervous system health. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions.
He graduated with a Medical Degree from Memorial University of Newfoundland in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Neurologist, with certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training and expertise enable him to deliver expert neurological assessments and treatments.
Dr. Scott is committed to patient-centered care, employing a holistic approach to neurological health that combines evidence-based practices with ongoing patient education and support. He speaks both English and French, facilitating effective communication with a diverse patient population in Victoria. His dedication is reflected in his compassionate approach and commitment to improving quality of life for his patients.
Dr. James Scott addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
- Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders
- Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.
- Focal (Partial) Epilepsy (with or without secondary generalization): Seizures originating in one area of the brain, which may or may not spread to become generalized.
- Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy: Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to treatment with two or more appropriately chosen anti-seizure medications.
Headache Disorders
- Cluster Headache: Intensely painful headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or cluster periods, one of the most severe types of pain known.
- Chronic Daily Headache: Headaches occurring 15 or more days per month for at least three months.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia & Other Facial Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. James Scott.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
- Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
- Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Scott for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Scott's practice is situated within a well-equipped neurology clinic in the Fairfield East neighbourhood of Victoria, BC. The facility is located conveniently within a hospital department that serves the local community, including the vibrant Downtown Core and the Royal BC Museum. Patients can access the clinic via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), with multiple bus routes serving the area. The clinic premises are fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Paid parking options are conveniently located nearby, providing flexibility and ease for those arriving by car. The setting offers a professional, welcoming environment dedicated to providing high-quality neurological care.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Scott, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Scott, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Scott's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Scott, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Scott for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.
- What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how is it treated?
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing acute relapses (often with corticosteroids), slowing disease progression with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and managing symptoms (like fatigue, spasticity, pain, bladder problems). Dr. Scott can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.
- How does Dr. Scott manage Parkinson's disease?
- Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Scott will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.
- What are the treatment options for epilepsy?
- The primary treatment for epilepsy is anti-seizure medication (ASM), formerly known as anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). There are many different ASMs available, and the choice depends on the type of seizures, epilepsy syndrome, age, other medical conditions, and potential side effects. For some individuals whose seizures are not controlled by medication (drug-resistant epilepsy), other options may include dietary therapies (like the ketogenic diet), neurostimulation devices (like Vagus Nerve Stimulation - VNS), or epilepsy surgery. Dr. Scott can discuss the most appropriate treatment pathway.
306 1964 Fort St
Victoria, BC V8R 6R3
Phone: (250) 590-2694 | Fax: (250) 294-7896
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Scott is a licensed Neurologist 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 is typically required for consultations with Dr. Scott for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/340941/Scott%2CJames