Dr. James Neil Bergman – Allergist / Immunologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. James Neil Bergman is a dedicated Allergist / Immunologist, committed to providing expert care for patients of all ages with allergic or immunologic conditions. Practicing at an allergy and immunology clinic in Vancouver in Vancouver, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. The clinic adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that each patient receives thorough and compassionate care. Dr. Bergman’s practice is focused on accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment, utilizing the latest diagnostic tools and evidence-based strategies to improve patient outcomes.

He graduated with an MD from the University of Manitoba in 1991. Following medical school, he completed residency training, typically in Internal Medicine or Pediatrics, and subsequently pursued a specialized fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. Dr. Bergman is a board-certified Allergist / Immunologist with over 28 years of specialized experience since 1996. He holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of practice and ongoing professional development.

Dr. Bergman’s professional philosophy centers on a commitment to accurate diagnosis and personalized management of allergic and immunologic conditions. He is dedicated to empowering his patients with knowledge about their conditions and self-management strategies. Utilizing the latest advancements and evidence-based approaches in allergy and immunology, his goal is to enhance quality of life by minimizing symptoms and preventing severe reactions. He collaborates closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to provide comprehensive, integrated care. All communication and care are delivered in English, with a focus on patient education and support in Vancouver’s diverse community.

Dr. James Bergman provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including:

Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies

Dr. Bergman manages venom immunotherapy can be life-saving for severe insect sting allergies.

• Mast Cell Disorders (e.g., Mastocytosis, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome): Conditions involving abnormal accumulation or activation of mast cells, leading to symptoms like flushing, itching, hives, abdominal pain, and anaphylaxis.
• Insect Sting Allergies (Bee, Wasp, Hornet, Yellow Jacket, Fire Ant): Allergic reactions to the venom of stinging insects, ranging from large local reactions to systemic anaphylaxis.
• Alpha-Gal Allergy (Red Meat Allergy): A delayed allergic reaction to galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal), a carbohydrate found in mammalian meat (e.g., beef, pork, lamb).

Skin Allergies and Dermatitis

Dr. Bergman manages includes atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, and urticaria (hives).

• Contact Dermatitis (Allergic or Irritant): Management includes avoiding the offending substance and using topical treatments.
• Angioedema: Can occur with urticaria or independently, and may be allergic or hereditary.
• Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Treatment involves moisturizers, topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors, and trigger avoidance.

Immunodeficiency Disorders

Dr. Bergman manages conditions where the immune system's ability to fight infections and diseases is compromised or absent.

• Humoral (Antibody) Deficiencies: Disorders where the body doesn't produce enough antibodies (immunoglobulins) to fight off infections effectively.
• Secondary Immunodeficiencies (e.g., due to HIV, Medications): Weakened immune function resulting from other diseases (like HIV/AIDS, certain cancers) or treatments (like chemotherapy, long-term corticosteroids, immunosuppressants).
• Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD): Examples include Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID), X-linked Agammaglobulinemia (XLA), and Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID).

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. James Bergman is necessary.

• Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) for Food Allergies (Specialized Centres): Aims to increase the threshold for reaction and reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions.
• Asthma Diagnosis and Management: Comprehensive care for asthma, including diagnosis, personalized treatment plans with inhalers and other medications.
• Management of Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) and Sinusitis: Management of chronic sinusitis related to allergies.
• Blood Tests for Allergy (e.g., Specific IgE testing): Helps identify triggers for allergic reactions.
• Management of Urticaria (Hives) and Angioedema: Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic hives and swelling.
• Evaluation and Management of Primary Immunodeficiencies (PID): May involve immunoglobulin replacement therapy, prophylactic antibiotics, and management of complications.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific diagnostic tests and treatment plans are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Bergman.

All allergy and immunology 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 Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI) and relevant international guidelines. A referral from a physician is generally required for consultation.

Dr. Bergman's practice is situated at an allergy and immunology clinic in Vancouver, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Kensington-Cedar Cottage East. The clinic offers a welcoming and professional environment dedicated to high-quality allergy and immunology care. It is conveniently accessible via TransLink, including SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus services, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is equipped for allergy testing and consultations, ensuring comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services. Patients generally find on-site or nearby public parking readily available, making access to care straightforward and comfortable.

Does Dr. Bergman offer allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops)?

Yes, Allergist / Immunologists like Dr. Bergman often prescribe and manage allergen immunotherapy. This treatment, available as allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy or SCIT) or under-the-tongue tablets/drops (sublingual immunotherapy or SLIT for certain allergens), helps your body build tolerance to specific allergens over time, reducing symptoms of hay fever, allergic asthma, or insect sting allergies. He can determine if immunotherapy is a suitable option for you. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.

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

Most specialized medical care for allergies, asthma, and immune disorders provided by Dr. Bergman under Medical Services Plan (MSP) is covered. This typically includes appointments and medically indicated diagnostic tests. However, some specific treatments like allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops) or certain advanced biologics may have varying coverage criteria or require special authorization. Consultations with an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Bergman, as well as medically necessary diagnostic tests (e.g., skin prick tests for common allergens) and management of conditions like asthma or immunodeficiencies, are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). However, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets/drops) and some newer biologic medications may have specific coverage criteria or require special authorization. It is recommended to confirm coverage details with Dr. Bergman's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Bergman?

As an Allergist and Immunologist, Dr. Bergman manages numerous conditions related to the immune system. These frequently include environmental allergies, food sensitivities and allergies, medication reactions, chronic sinus problems, skin rashes like eczema, and disorders where the immune system is underactive or overactive. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.

What does an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Bergman specialize in?

Dr. Bergman is an Allergist and Immunologist, a physician expert in the body's immune system and its reactions. He manages a wide range of conditions from common allergies and asthma to complex immune deficiency diseases and related systemic disorders. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.

What is involved in an evaluation for a possible immunodeficiency by Dr. Bergman?

If an immunodeficiency is suspected (e.g., due to recurrent, severe, or unusual infections), Dr. Bergman will conduct a thorough evaluation. This typically involves a detailed medical and family history, a physical examination, and specialized laboratory tests to assess different components of the immune system (like antibody levels, white blood cell counts and function). The goal is to identify any underlying immune system weakness and develop an appropriate management plan.

How does Dr. Bergman help manage food allergies?

Dr. Bergman provides comprehensive management for food allergies. This includes accurate diagnosis through testing (skin tests, blood tests, or oral food challenges), developing strict allergen avoidance strategies, educating on label reading, and creating an emergency action plan, including the prescription and training for epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen®). He may also discuss emerging therapies like oral immunotherapy if applicable. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Bergman?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is generally required to see an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Bergman for services covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP)). This ensures that Dr. Bergman has relevant medical history and that the consultation is appropriate for your specific health concerns. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (604) 876-4431.

506-1750 10TH Ave E
Vancouver, BC V5N 5K4

Office Phone: (604) 876-4433 | Office Fax: (604) 876-4431

Dr. Bergman is a licensed Allergist / Immunologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in British Columbia. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Bergman, particularly for services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Bergman's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/311938/Bergman%2CJames