Description
About Dr. Kelsey Hinther
Dr. Kelsey Hinther 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 Calgary in Calgary, AB, she is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. The clinic adheres to the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care. Dr. Hinther's role focuses on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and personalized management of a wide spectrum of allergic and immunologic conditions, utilizing up-to-date diagnostic tools and evidence-based strategies.
She graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the University of Saskatchewan in 2018. Following medical school, she completed residency training in Internal Medicine, followed by a specialized fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. As an experienced Allergist / Immunologist, she has extensive postgraduate training in allergy and immunology, which qualifies her to manage complex cases and provide comprehensive care. She holds the necessary certifications to practice in Alberta, demonstrating her commitment to professional excellence and ongoing education.
Dr. Hinther’s professional philosophy centers on delivering accurate diagnosis and personalized management plans for her patients. She is dedicated to empowering individuals with knowledge about their conditions and self-management strategies, utilizing the latest advancements and evidence-based approaches in allergy and immunology. Her focus is on improving quality of life by minimizing symptoms and preventing severe reactions. She collaborates closely with primary care physicians and specialists to offer integrated, comprehensive care. All communication and patient care are provided in English, ensuring clear understanding and compassionate support.
Allergic & Immunologic Conditions Addressed by Dr. Kelsey Hinther
Dr. Kelsey Hinther provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including:
Immunodeficiency Disorders
Dr. Hinther manages conditions where the immune system's ability to fight infections and diseases is compromised or absent.
- Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD): Examples include Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID), X-linked Agammaglobulinemia (XLA), and Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID).
- Recurrent Infections (Evaluation for Underlying Immunodeficiency): Aims to identify if an underlying immune system problem is present.
- Secondary Immunodeficiencies (e.g., due to HIV, Medications): Requires careful monitoring and management to prevent and treat opportunistic infections.
Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies
Dr. Hinther manages accurate diagnosis is key to implementing effective avoidance and emergency treatment strategies.
- Insect Sting Allergies (Bee, Wasp, Hornet, Yellow Jacket, Fire Ant): Diagnosis involves skin testing or blood tests for venom-specific IgE.
- 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).
- Mast Cell Disorders (e.g., Mastocytosis, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome): Diagnosis can be complex and may involve tryptase levels and bone marrow biopsy.
Food and Drug Allergies
Dr. Hinther manages accurate diagnosis through testing and challenges is crucial.
- Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) - Allergy Related: Managed with dietary elimination, topical corticosteroids, or biologics.
- Common Food Allergies (e.g., Peanut, Tree Nuts, Milk, Egg, Soy, Wheat, Fish, Shellfish): Requires careful dietary management, label reading, and an emergency action plan.
- Drug Allergies (e.g., Penicillin, Sulfa Drugs): Evaluation includes detailed history, and sometimes skin testing or graded drug challenges.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. Kelsey Hinther is necessary.
Allergy and Immunology Services by Dr. Kelsey Hinther
- Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) for Food Allergies (Specialized Centres): A specialized treatment offered at select centres to desensitize individuals to specific food allergens by gradually ingesting increasing amounts of the allergen under medical supervision.
- Pulmonary Function Testing (Spirometry) for Asthma: Measures how much air you can inhale and exhale, and how quickly you can exhale.
- Evaluation and Management of Primary Immunodeficiencies (PID): May involve immunoglobulin replacement therapy, prophylactic antibiotics, and management of complications.
- Recurrent Infection Evaluation: Assessment for underlying immune system abnormalities or other contributing factors.
- Management of Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) and Sinusitis: Treatment plans for nasal allergies, including allergen avoidance, medications (antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids), and immunotherapy.
- Allergen Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Sublingual Tablets/Drops): Treatment to desensitize patients to specific allergens, reducing allergy symptoms over time.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific diagnostic tests and treatment plans are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Hinther.
All allergy and immunology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) and relevant Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI) and relevant international guidelines. A referral from a physician is generally required for consultation.
Practice Location & Contact
Dr. Hinther practices primarily at an allergy and immunology clinic located in Calgary's SE: Acadia, Fairview, Willow Park East neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Pedestrian Mall Downtown area, accessible via Calgary Transit (CTrain LRT, Bus, BRT). The facility is equipped for allergy testing and consultations, providing a professional and supportive environment for patients seeking allergy and immunology care. Parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible spots for patients with mobility needs. The clinic is dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care in a welcoming setting, ensuring easy access for individuals seeking specialized allergy and immunology services in Calgary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Allergy and Immunology
- What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Hinther?
- Dr. Hinther treats a wide spectrum of allergic and immunologic conditions. Common ones include allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, food allergies, drug allergies, insect sting allergies, atopic dermatitis (eczema), urticaria (hives), angioedema, and primary immunodeficiency diseases. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
- When should I see an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Hinther?
- A consultation with Dr. Hinther is recommended if you need specialized allergy testing, are considering allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops), have a suspected immunodeficiency, or require expert management for conditions like anaphylaxis, chronic urticaria, or complex allergic disorders. Your primary care physician can help determine if a referral is appropriate.
- Are services from Dr. Hinther covered by provincial health insurance?
- Most specialized medical care for allergies, asthma, and immune disorders provided by Dr. Hinther under Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) 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. Hinther, 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 Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). 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. Hinther's office or Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Hinther?
- For most consultations with Dr. Hinther that are medically necessary and covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), a referral from your family doctor is typically needed. This helps in coordinating your care effectively. Some specialized allergy clinics or services might have different referral processes, so it's always good to check with their office. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (403) 457-8237.
- What does an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Hinther specialize in?
- Dr. Hinther is an Allergist and Immunologist, a physician expert in the body's immune system and its reactions. She manages a wide range of conditions from common allergies and asthma to complex immune deficiency diseases and related systemic disorders. She specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
Practice & Licensing Information
5918 3 St SW
Calgary, AB T2H 0H8
Office Phone: (403) 255-3749 | Office Fax: (403) 457-8237
Dr. Hinther is a licensed Allergist / Immunologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA) under the Health Professions Act in Alberta. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Hinther, particularly for services covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).
Verify Dr. Hinther's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA): https://search.cpsa.ca/PhysicianProfile?e=f547177d-1804-4470-8019-b30405120284&i=621