Dr. Kerrett Hugh Washington Wallace, a respected Cardiologist, focuses on evidence-based cardiology practice and personalized patient treatment plans. Practicing in Victoria, BC, he serves patients from the surrounding region. His practice adheres to the standards and guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring high-quality and safe care. Subspecialty interests or areas of focus may include general cardiology, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, and arrhythmia management, providing comprehensive cardiovascular services to adult patients.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB BS) from the University of the West Indies in 1999 (Jamaica), followed by extensive postgraduate training in cardiology. His certifications include successfully completing training programs accredited by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, which credential him as a specialist in cardiology. Dr. Wallace has accumulated years of clinical experience, emphasizing evidence-based practices and continuous professional development.
Dr. Wallace’s clinical philosophy is grounded in evidence-based medicine, prioritizing patient safety, education, and individualized care. He is committed to providing thorough, compassionate, and up-to-date cardiovascular care to adults in Victoria. He communicates fluently in English, facilitating clear discussions and shared decision-making with his patients.
Dr. Wallace provides expert care for adults with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including:
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) & Ischemic Heart Disease
- Evaluation for Suspected CAD: Diagnostic workup for patients with symptoms or risk factors suggesting potential blockages in the heart arteries.
- Post-Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) Care: Comprehensive follow-up care focused on recovery, secondary prevention, risk factor management, and medication optimization after a heart attack.
- Management after Coronary Stenting (PCI): Monitoring and medical management following procedures to open blocked heart arteries with stents, including antiplatelet therapy guidance.
Heart Failure & Cardiomyopathy
- Management Post-Heart Transplant: Specialized follow-up care for patients who have received a heart transplant (often in dedicated clinics).
- Cardiomyopathy (Various Types): Diagnosis and management of diseases affecting the heart muscle itself, such as dilated, hypertrophic, or restrictive cardiomyopathy.
- Congestive Heart Failure (Systolic & Diastolic): Comprehensive management including optimizing medications, managing symptoms (fluid retention, shortness of breath), and improving quality of life.
Cardiovascular Prevention & Risk Management
- Primary & Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention: Developing comprehensive strategies (lifestyle and medical) to prevent a first heart event or subsequent events in high-risk individuals.
- Complex Hypertension Management: Specialist care for difficult-to-control high blood pressure or hypertension with associated complications.
- Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: Detailed evaluation of individual risk factors to estimate the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke.
Cardiologists manage a broad spectrum of heart and vascular conditions. This list showcases common areas. Consultation with Dr. Wallace is typically initiated via referral from your family doctor or another specialist to address your specific cardiovascular concerns.
- Echocardiogram (Transthoracic - TTE) Interpretation: Analyzing standard ultrasound images of the heart to evaluate heart muscle function, valve structure and function, and chamber sizes.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) Interpretation: Expert analysis of ECG recordings to detect arrhythmias, evidence of heart attacks, chamber enlargement, and other electrical abnormalities.
- Ambulatory ECG (Holter & Event Monitor) Interpretation: Analyzing recordings from portable heart monitors worn for 24 hours up to several weeks to diagnose intermittent arrhythmias or correlate symptoms with heart rhythm.
- Anticoagulation Management (e.g., for AFib, Clots): Managing blood-thinning medications to prevent stroke or blood clots, including monitoring and dose adjustments.
- Stress Testing Supervision & Interpretation: Overseeing and interpreting exercise treadmill tests, stress echocardiograms, or nuclear stress tests to assess for coronary artery blockages and exercise capacity.
Note: This list highlights key areas of cardiovascular care provided by Dr. Wallace. The specific services required will depend on your individual diagnosis and referral. Please discuss specific service needs with your referring physician.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Wallace primarily practices at medical facilities located near central Victoria, in close proximity to Craigdarroch Castle. These facilities are easily accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). The practice location is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are cardiology consultations and tests ordered by Dr. Wallace covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
- Yes, consultations with specialists like Dr. Wallace are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid health card and a required referral. Most medically necessary diagnostic tests ordered by a cardiologist (like ECGs, standard echocardiograms, stress tests) are also usually covered. Some advanced tests or specific procedures might have different coverage rules or require pre-approval. It's always best to confirm specific coverage with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the testing facility.
- Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Wallace?
- Yes, as a specialist in Cardiology, a referral from your family doctor or another referring physician is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Wallace. This ensures the consultation is appropriate for your medical needs and facilitates coordination of your care. Please ask your doctor to send a referral request.
- Can heart disease be prevented?
- While some risk factors like age and family history cannot be changed, many key risk factors for heart disease *can* be modified or managed. Controlling high blood pressure, managing cholesterol and diabetes, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritiously, exercising regularly, and managing stress significantly reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
- Does Dr. Wallace provide refills for my heart medications?
- Dr. Wallace will typically initiate or adjust specialized heart medications. However, for stable, ongoing prescriptions, refills should generally be obtained through your family doctor, who manages your overall medication list. Please ensure you have enough medication until your next family doctor visit unless instructed otherwise.
300 3680 Uptown Blvd
Victoria, BC V8Z 0B9
Phone: (250) 595-1551
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Wallace is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Patients are typically seen by referral from their primary care physician.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/356327/Wallace%2CKerrett