Description
About Dr. Chan
Dr. John Kim Foon Chan is a Family Doctor. Practicing at Chan John K F Dr Inc in Abbotsford, BC, he is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered family medical care. He 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. His focus is 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. He serves patients of all ages, from newborns and infants through to children, adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Dr. John Kim Foon Chan completed his MD (University of Calgary, 1980). He brings valuable clinical experience to the practice. He holds Certification in the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CCFP). He has developed skills or a strong interest in areas such as comprehensive primary care within family practice. He is also dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in family medicine.
Key aspects of his practice philosophy include a holistic approach to health, considering the physical, mental, emotional, and social factors that influence a patient's well-being; a dedication to preventative medicine and health promotion, aiming to identify risks early and support patients in maintaining long-term wellness; a commitment to evidence-based medicine, integrating the latest research with clinical expertise to provide the highest standard of care. He is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese and Mandarin.
Common Health Concerns Addressed by Dr. John Kim Foon Chan
Dr. John Kim Foon Chan provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:
Adult Common Health Issues
- Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) - Initial Assessment & Management: Assessing patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of Restless Legs Syndrome (an urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations, typically worse at rest/in the evening, and relieved by movement). This includes ruling out secondary causes (e.g., iron deficiency, kidney failure, pregnancy, certain medications).
- Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Managing common types of nutritional anemia such as iron deficiency anemia (oral or intravenous iron supplementation, dietary advice to increase iron intake and absorption, investigation for source of chronic blood loss if suspected - e.g., GI bleed, heavy menses) and megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency (oral or parenteral supplementation, dietary counseling, investigation for underlying causes like pernicious anemia, malabsorption syndromes - celiac disease, Crohn's, post-gastric surgery, medication effects - metformin, PPIs).
- Venous Insufficiency & Varicose Veins (Conservative Management & Lifestyle Advice): Initial assessment and conservative management of symptoms related to chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and varicose veins, such as leg aching, heaviness, swelling (edema), skin changes (e.g., hyperpigmentation, lipodermatosclerosis, venous eczema), and uncomplicated superficial thrombophlebitis. Ruling out deep vein thrombosis (DVT) if acute unilateral swelling/pain.
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Symptom Management & Monitoring: Referral to urology for severe symptoms, complications (e.g., acute urinary retention, recurrent UTIs, bladder stones, renal impairment due to obstruction), or if surgical intervention (e.g., TURP) is being considered.
Pediatric Common Issues
- Well-Baby & Well-Child Check-ups (Growth, Development, Nutrition, Safety): Comprehensive preventative care designed to support the healthy physical, cognitive, and emotional development of children from birth, building a strong foundation for lifelong health.
- Common Childhood Infections (Viral & Bacterial - Ear, Throat, Chest, Skin, GI): Expert management of a wide spectrum of acute illnesses affecting infants, toddlers, and school-aged children, including clear guidance for parents on home care, symptom relief, and when to seek urgent re-assessment.
- Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Ensuring a healthy start for newborns with regular check-ups, timely interventions if issues arise, and resources for parental education and support.
Preventative Health Topics
- Health Equity & Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Discussion & Resource Navigation: A holistic approach to primary care that considers the broader social context of health and aims to reduce barriers to care and well-being by addressing SDOH.
- Comprehensive Lifestyle Counseling (Diet, Exercise, Sleep, Stress Reduction): Supporting your efforts to adopt and maintain healthier habits across multiple domains of life for a better quality of life, increased resilience, and proactive disease prevention through shared goal setting and ongoing support.
- Driver's Medical Examinations (Routine, Age-Related, Commercial): Performing comprehensive driver's medicals to ensure individuals meet the health standards necessary for safe vehicle operation, promoting road safety for all.
Common Acute Conditions
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs - Cystitis, Pyelonephritis - uncomplicated initial): Management of bladder and kidney infections with appropriate antibiotics based on likely pathogens and local resistance patterns, along with advice on prevention strategies for recurrent UTIs and symptom relief.
- Common Acute Skin Conditions (Rashes, Infections, Bites, Minor Burns): Addressing sudden onset skin problems, providing effective treatment, advising on skin care and hygiene to promote healing, and identifying potential triggers for allergic or irritant conditions.
- Gastrointestinal Infections (Gastroenteritis, Food Poisoning): Managing acute episodes of vomiting and diarrhea to support recovery, ensure adequate hydration, and rule out more serious underlying causes.
- Allergic Reactions (Mild to Moderate - e.g., Hay Fever, Hives, Minor Food Allergy Symptoms): Providing advice on allergen avoidance, prescribing antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids or other medications for symptom relief, and discussing options like allergy testing or specialist referrals if indicated for more severe or complex allergies.
Common Chronic Conditions
- Asthma (All Ages) & Allergic Rhinitis: Developing and regularly reviewing personalized asthma action plans, educating on proper inhaler technique (metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, nebulizers), trigger identification and avoidance (allergens, irritants), medication management (relievers, controllers like inhaled corticosteroids, LABAs, LTRAs), and managing asthma exacerbations to improve breathing, prevent flare-ups, and maintain an active lifestyle. Also includes management of associated allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
- Anemia (Iron Deficiency, B12/Folate Deficiency - Chronic): Diagnosing and providing ongoing treatment for common forms of anemia to maintain energy levels and overall health.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) & Peptic Ulcer Disease (PUD) - Chronic Management: Developing long-term strategies for managing acid-related digestive disorders effectively.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD - Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis): Helping individuals with chronic bronchitis or emphysema manage their symptoms effectively, improve exercise tolerance, and maintain the best possible lung function through a multidisciplinary approach.
This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Chan. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.
Dr. John Kim Foon Chan's Family Medicine Services
- Primary Care for Overuse & Repetitive Strain Injuries: Helping patients recover from repetitive strain conditions and prevent recurrence through education and targeted interventions.
- Urgent Care for Non-Life-Threatening Conditions: Providing assessment and management for urgent medical issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention, such as minor allergic reactions, asthma flare-ups, or infections needing timely treatment.
- Grief, Loss & Bereavement Counseling (Initial Supportive Care): Providing a safe and understanding space to navigate the complex emotional, cognitive, and physical reactions to loss, and connecting with specialized bereavement services or support groups if needed.
- Osteoporosis Screening, Prevention & Management: Proactive care to maintain bone health, prevent fractures, and manage established osteoporosis.
- Thyroid Disorder Management (Hypo/Hyperthyroidism, Nodules, Hashimoto's): Comprehensive primary care for patients with various thyroid conditions, including initial investigation of thyroid abnormalities and coordination with endocrinology if needed.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Chan. 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).
Partnering in Your Health: Achieving Your Goals with Dr. Chan
At Chan John K F Dr Inc, 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. Chan frequently works with patients towards goals such as:
- A key objective when treating wanting to discuss various birth control options to find what's best for them, or needing a Pap test at Dr. Chan's clinic is having their unique cultural background, personal values, spiritual beliefs, and communication preferences consistently respected and thoughtfully incorporated into their personalized healthcare plan by an attentive and culturally sensitive Dr. Chan, supporting a comfortable return to confidently, independently, and effectively managing their diagnosed chronic health conditions (like diabetes, asthma, or hypertension) on a daily basis with minimal disruption to their desired lifestyle and activities, feeling in control.
- The path to wellness when facing a really sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and a high fever that might be strep or tonsillitis involves working towards having their advance care plans and end-of-life wishes thoughtfully discussed, respectfully explored, and accurately documented with Dr. Chan well in advance, ensuring their future autonomy and dignity are preserved. Dr. Chan guides patients so they can again enjoy still feeling reasonably energetic and mentally alert after a full and demanding day's work, enabling them to engage in enjoyable evening activities, family time, or personal hobbies rather than collapsing from exhaustion.
- Dr. Chan understands the impact of a sudden, unexplained weakness or numbness on one side of their body – they know this could be urgent. That's why treatment is geared towards receiving a clear, understandable, and timely diagnosis for their persistent health concern, finally bringing peace of mind and a concrete path forward for treatment or management under Dr. Chan's care, helping patients get back to meticulously planning, eagerly anticipating, and thoroughly enjoying well-deserved, adventurous, or relaxing vacations and novel travel experiences, both near and far, without the constant nagging worry about potential health flare-ups, unexpected medical needs, or physical limitations with greater ease.
Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. Chan, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.
Clinic Location & Accessibility
Dr. Chan's practice, Chan John K F Dr Inc, is conveniently located in the West Abbotsford, Mount Lehman neighborhood of Abbotsford, near Sevenoaks Shopping Centre. The clinic is accessible via the Central Fraser Valley Transit System (BC Transit). Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance; please observe local signage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Family Medicine with Dr. Chan in Abbotsford
- What if Dr. Chan works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. Chan?
- Dr. Chan practices as part of Chan John K F Dr Inc, which often means you have access to a range of healthcare professionals like nurses, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, or pharmacists working together. While the goal is always to promote continuity with your primary family doctor, Dr. Chan, for some urgent issues, 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 and provide comprehensive support. Chan John K F Dr Inc will always strive to have you see Dr. Chan for complex or ongoing issues where that continuity is most crucial.
- How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC who is accepting new patients?
- Finding a family doctor in BC who is accepting new patients can be challenging. The College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC often has a 'Find a Doctor' tool or list on their website. You can also ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contacting local community health centres or new patient clinics directly may also be helpful. It may take time to find a suitable doctor.
- What does 'preventative care' involve with a family doctor like Dr. Chan?
- Preventative care with Dr. Chan focuses on keeping you healthy and identifying potential health problems before they become serious or cause symptoms. This involves a range of services tailored to your age, gender, and risk factors, such as routine check-ups (periodic health exams), age-appropriate cancer screenings (e.g., Pap tests, mammograms, colon cancer screening, PSA discussions), immunizations (flu shots, travel vaccines, routine boosters), blood pressure and cholesterol checks, screening for diabetes, counseling on healthy lifestyle choices (diet, exercise, smoking cessation, responsible alcohol use), and risk assessments for various conditions. The primary goal is to prevent illness, detect diseases early when they are most treatable, and promote your long-term health and well-being.
- Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC?
- Generally, you do not need a referral from another doctor to see a family doctor in BC if that doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources, such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website, may be helpful in your search. A referral is usually required from a family doctor to see most medical specialists.
- 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.
- 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 provincial health card. However, some services, such as cosmetic procedures or travel medicine consultations, may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Please confirm with Chan John K F Dr Inc if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.
- What happens if Dr. Chan determines I need to see a medical specialist?
- If Dr. Chan determines that your condition requires the expertise of a medical specialist (e.g., a cardiologist, dermatologist, surgeon, psychiatrist), he will discuss the reasons with you and initiate a referral. This usually involves Dr. Chan sending a formal referral letter along with your relevant medical information to the specialist's office. Wait times for specialist appointments can vary significantly depending on the specialty and the urgency of your condition. The staff at Chan John K F Dr Inc will typically inform you once the referral has been sent, and in most cases, the specialist's office will contact you directly to schedule an appointment. Please follow up with Chan John K F Dr Inc if you haven't heard from the specialist's office within a reasonable timeframe, as advised by Dr. Chan.
Contact & Licensing Information for Dr. John Kim Foon Chan
Chan John K F Dr Inc
2-2629 Cedar Park Pl
Abbotsford, BC, V2T 3S4
Phone: (604) 854-3117
Dr. John Kim Foon Chan 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: 1544
Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/352615/Chan%2CJohn
Family doctors like Dr. Chan 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.