Dr. Kevin Yu Hao Zhao – Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor | Kamloops, BC

As an experienced Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor, Dr. Kevin Yu Hao Zhao offers comprehensive care for disorders of the head and neck, utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities. Practicing primarily at a clinic in Kamloops, BC, he serves the local community with a commitment to excellence. His practice is conducted in accordance with the standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Zhao’s role focuses on providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing a wide spectrum of conditions affecting both adults and children.

Dr. Zhao graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2017 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. He holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his expertise and commitment to maintaining high standards of practice.

His clinical philosophy emphasizes patient education, evidence-based care, and a collaborative approach to treatment. Dr. Zhao is dedicated to providing high-quality ENT care to the Kamloops community, communicating fluently in English to ensure clear understanding and effective management of each patient's health concerns.

Dr. Kevin Zhao manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:

Common Ear Conditions

• Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: A condition where the tube connecting the middle ear to the back of the nose doesn't open or close properly, causing ear pressure or fluid.
• Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Hearing impairment resulting from exposure to loud sounds, which can be temporary or permanent.
• Cholesteatoma (Benign Ear Cyst): An abnormal, noncancerous skin growth that can develop in the middle ear behind the eardrum, potentially damaging ear structures.

This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Kevin Zhao or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.

• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.
• Comprehensive ENT Consultation & Examination: Thorough evaluation of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck conditions, including detailed history taking, physical examination, and formulation of a treatment plan.
• Diagnostic Audiometry & Tympanometry: Complete hearing tests to assess hearing levels, middle ear function, and identify types of hearing loss in adults and children.
• Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
• Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Zhao offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Zhao's areas of focus.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). A referral may be required.

Dr. Zhao primarily practices at a medical clinic located in the Downtown Kamloops area, easily accessible from the South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently reachable via the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit). Patients can find ample parking options at the facility. The office is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. The location provides a comfortable environment for both adult and pediatric ENT care, with modern amenities and facilities designed to support comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of ear, nose, throat, and head/neck conditions.

Are services from Dr. Zhao, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Zhao are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the clinic if you have questions.

Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Zhao, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Zhao. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.

How can Dr. Zhao help with snoring and sleep apnea?

Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are often caused by an obstruction or narrowing of the airway in the nose or throat. Dr. Zhao, an ENT specialist, can perform a thorough examination to identify the areas of obstruction (e.g., deviated septum, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, large tongue base, elongated soft palate). Depending on the findings, treatment options may include lifestyle modifications (weight loss, positional therapy), CPAP therapy (often managed by a sleep physician), oral appliances, or surgical procedures aimed at improving airway patency. Examples include septoplasty, tonsillectomy, UPPP, or Inspire therapy in select cases.

I have a thyroid nodule. What does an ENT specialist do?

If you have a thyroid nodule, an ENT specialist (Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon) like Dr. Zhao will typically evaluate it through a physical exam, review any prior imaging (like ultrasound), and may order blood tests for thyroid function. A key diagnostic step is often a fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy, where a small sample of cells is taken from the nodule under ultrasound guidance to determine if it's benign or cancerous. Based on these findings, Dr. Zhao will discuss whether monitoring, further testing, or surgical removal (thyroidectomy) is indicated.

When should I consider seeing an ENT specialist?

You might consider seeing an ENT specialist if you experience persistent issues such as chronic ear infections, hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), dizziness or balance problems, chronic sinusitis or nasal congestion, recurrent nosebleeds, allergies affecting the upper airway, voice changes or hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, snoring or suspected sleep apnea, or lumps in the neck or head region. Your family doctor can help determine if a referral to an ENT like Dr. Zhao is appropriate.

What is the typical recovery time for common ENT surgeries like tonsillectomy or sinus surgery?

Recovery times vary depending on the specific surgery and the individual patient. For a tonsillectomy, expect a sore throat for 1-2 weeks, with gradual improvement. For endoscopic sinus surgery, most people feel significantly better within 1-2 weeks, but some nasal stuffiness or drainage can persist for a bit longer, and full healing can take a few months. Dr. Zhao will provide detailed post-operative instructions and discuss the expected recovery period for your specific procedure.

520 St Paul St Ste 201
Kamloops, BC V2C 2J9

Phone: (250) 374-1488 | Fax: (250) 374-1482

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Zhao is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/343546/Zhao%2CKevin