Dr. Karen Lynn Hoar 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 Duncan in Duncan, BC, she is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive safe, effective, and compassionate care. Dr. Hoar's role encompasses a comprehensive range of services, from routine eye examinations and vision correction to the management of complex eye diseases and surgical interventions. The clinic offers a full spectrum of eye care services in a patient-friendly environment, dedicated to preserving and enhancing vision for all who seek her expertise.
She holds a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia, graduating in 1998, and has completed extensive postgraduate training in ophthalmology. Her experience as an Ophthalmologist is complemented by key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. These qualifications reflect her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence and staying current with advances in eye care technology and treatments.
Dr. Hoar's professional philosophy centers on early detection and management of eye conditions, utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for precise and effective treatments. She is dedicated to educating her patients about their eye health and involving them in treatment decisions. Her approach emphasizes compassionate, state-of-the-art care aimed at preserving and improving vision, with a focus on collaborative, patient-centered care. All communication and care are provided in English, ensuring clear understanding and comfort for her patients in Duncan.
Dr. Karen Hoar provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:
Refractive Errors and Vision Correction
Dr. Hoar addresses management of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).
- Hyperopia (Farsightedness): A condition where near objects may appear blurry (and sometimes distant objects too) because the eye focuses images behind the retina.
- Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.
- Myopia (Nearsightedness): Often develops in childhood and can progress through adolescence.
Cataracts and Lens Disorders
Dr. Hoar addresses conditions related to the clouding of the eye's natural lens (cataract) or other lens abnormalities.
- Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Can significantly impact visual development and requires prompt surgical intervention if visually significant.
- Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: May require surgical repositioning, exchange, or suturing of the lens.
- Age-Related Cataracts: Surgical removal and lens implant is a highly effective treatment.
Glaucoma Management
Dr. Hoar addresses early detection and lifelong management are crucial to preserving sight.
- Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): Laser iridotomy is a common preventative or treatment procedure.
- Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Diagnosis can be challenging.
- Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Glaucoma that develops as a result of another medical condition, eye injury, medication use (like steroids), or previous eye surgery.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. Karen Hoar is necessary.
- Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Reserved for glaucoma not adequately controlled by medications or laser.
- Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Guidance on lens options and proper eye care for lens wearers.
- Cataract Evaluation and Surgical Management: Comprehensive assessment for cataracts, including vision testing and evaluation of lens opacity.
- Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Risk assessment for individuals with family history or other risk factors.
- Emergency Eye Care Services: Urgent evaluation and treatment for acute eye injuries, sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or infections.
- Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Includes toric IOLs for astigmatism correction and multifocal/EDOF IOLs for a range of vision.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. Hoar.
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. Hoar practices at a specialized eye clinic located in the heart of Duncan, BC. The clinic is situated in a welcoming neighborhood close to various medical facilities and optical services, making it convenient for patients to access comprehensive eye care. The facility is easily reachable via local public transit routes, with accessible parking options nearby, including some designated accessible spots. The clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, offering a professional environment equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment technology. Patients can expect personalized care in a setting that fosters confidence and ease during their visit.
- What are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. Hoar?
- As an Ophthalmologist, Dr. Hoar manages numerous eye problems. These frequently include prescribing glasses/contacts, performing cataract surgery, treating glaucoma with medications or lasers, managing retinal issues like macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, and addressing infections or inflammations of the eye. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.
- Does Dr. Hoar perform cataract surgery?
- Yes, cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed by Ophthalmologists like Dr. Hoar. It involves removing the cloudy natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision. Dr. Hoar can evaluate your cataracts and discuss the surgical options, including different types of IOLs.
- When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Hoar?
- You should see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Hoar 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.
- Are services from Dr. Hoar covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Hoar for diagnosed eye conditions is covered under Medical Services Plan (MSP). This includes treatments for diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. Routine eye check-ups for vision testing (refraction) may not be covered for all age groups unless there's an underlying medical reason. Elective cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by provincial health insurance. 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. Hoar's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Hoar?
- Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Hoar for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Hoar's office or seek emergency eye care as appropriate, as referral requirements may differ in emergencies. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (250) 748-9647.
- What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Hoar specialize in?
- Dr. Hoar is an Ophthalmologist, a physician with extensive training in all aspects of eye health. She 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.
- What is the difference between an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Hoar and an Optometrist?
- The key difference is that an Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Hoar, is a physician and surgeon specializing in eye care, able to provide the full spectrum of medical and surgical treatments for eye diseases. Optometrists are primary eye care providers who conduct eye exams, prescribe glasses and contacts, and can diagnose and manage many eye conditions with medications or refer to an ophthalmologist for more complex issues or surgery. Both play vital roles in eye health.
a specialized eye clinic in Duncan
203-300 Brae Rd, Cowichan Ophthalmology
Duncan, BC V9L 3T8
Office Phone: (250) 748-2922 | Office Fax: (250) 748-9647
Dr. Hoar 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. Hoar, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Hoar's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/322829/Hoar%2CKaren