Dr. Kirily Park

As a Respirologist, Dr. Kirily Park diagnoses and manages a wide array of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including but not limited to:

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Sarcoidosis (Pulmonary Manifestations): Managing the lung involvement of sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of granulomas in various organs.
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Diagnosing and treating lung inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled organic dusts, molds, or chemicals.

Lung Infections

• Bronchitis (Acute): Treating acute inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by viral infections, leading to cough and mucus.
• Pneumonia: Diagnosing and treating infections that inflame the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus (e.g., bacterial, viral, fungal).
• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Managing the lung-related aspects of this infectious bacterial disease.

Pleural Diseases

• Pleural Effusion: Performing diagnostic and therapeutic thoracentesis to remove fluid and identify underlying conditions like infection, heart failure, or malignancy.
• Pleurisy (Pleuritis): Identifying the underlying cause, such as viral infection or autoimmune disease, and managing pain and inflammation.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Park, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.

• Comprehensive Respiratory Evaluation: Expert evaluation for various respiratory symptoms such as chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest discomfort.
• Pleural Effusion Management: Investigating and treating conditions leading to fluid accumulation in the pleural space.
• Inhaler Technique and Respiratory Device Training: Providing detailed instruction and education on the correct use of various inhalers, nebulizers, and other respiratory devices.
• COPD Management and Education: Providing education and support to empower individuals with COPD to actively participate in their care.
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Referral: Coordinating with pulmonary rehabilitation teams to support patients with chronic lung diseases.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Park. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any test or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation or speak with your referring physician.

All services by Dr. Kirily Park adhere to the scope of practice for Respirologists in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Kirily Park's practice, the primary aim is to work collaboratively with you to manage your respiratory condition effectively, improve your breathing, and enhance your overall quality of life. Dr. Park frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• Through Dr. Park's skilled guidance and modern medical techniques, patients suffering from concerns about a shadow or spot found on their lung X-ray or CT scan often find they can readily achieve slowed progression of their chronic lung disease where possible and once again enthusiastically pursue enjoyable pastimes like singing or playing a wind instrument if that's a passion.
• Managing feeling anxious about their breathing problems and how it affects their life effectively and proactively is a top priority for Dr. Park and the medical team. The clear aim is always successful and comfortable use of their CPAP therapy for sleep apnea, which directly helps patients get back to enjoying reducing their reliance on rescue inhalers due to better baseline control and their daily routines without severe respiratory hindrance.
• If feeling short of breath much of the time, even with little activity has unfortunately put managing their inhalers or other respiratory medications correctly and effectively on hold or made it less enjoyable, Dr. Park works closely with patients towards attaining a clear diagnosis and a better understanding of their specific lung condition, effectively helping them regain their previous level of respiratory function and confidence.
• A key objective when treating needing guidance on how to use their inhalers or CPAP machine correctly at Dr. Park's welcoming clinic is achieving their child experiencing fewer asthma attacks and participating more fully in activities. This directly supports a comfortable, confident, and lasting return to important activities like their child being able to keep up with peers during play and sports.

Your personalized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Park, will be tailored to address your specific respiratory needs and health goals. Dr. Park is dedicated to providing expert care and empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to achieve their best possible respiratory health.

Dr. Park's practice, a respiratory clinic in Nanaimo, is situated in the Central Nanaimo, Departure Bay neighborhood of Nanaimo. The clinic is conveniently located near Nanaimo North Town Centre and is accessible via Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). Information regarding parking options can be provided when you call to book your appointment.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Park covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Respirologist like Dr. Park are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic tests like PFTs and bronchoscopies ordered by a specialist are also usually covered. However, some specific treatments, devices (e.g., CPAP machines, some specialized inhalers), or medications may not be fully covered or may have co-payments depending on provincial formularies and private insurance. It's always best for patients to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any.

Do I typically need a referral to see a Respirologist (Pulmonologist) like Dr. Park?

Yes, in BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Respirologist like Dr. Park for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC. This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Park has the necessary background medical information. Patients should speak with their primary care physician or referring doctor if they believe they need a respiratory assessment.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Park at the clinic?

The first visit with Dr. Park will typically involve a comprehensive respiratory assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the nature and timeline of their current respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath, wheezing), how these symptoms impact their daily activities, smoking history, environmental exposures, and any previous treatments. Dr. Park will then perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the respiratory system (listening to the lungs, observing breathing patterns). Any prior imaging (Chest X-rays, CT scans) or test results (like PFTs) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Park will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations (like PFTs, sleep study, or bronchoscopy if needed), and will outline potential treatment options, working with the patient to establish health goals.

Can Dr. Park help manage chronic conditions like asthma or COPD?

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Park are experts in the long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis). After a thorough assessment, Dr. Park develops a personalized management plan. This may include prescribing appropriate inhaler medications (relievers and controllers), educating patients on correct inhaler technique, developing action plans for flare-ups, advising on trigger avoidance, recommending smoking cessation programs, and coordinating pulmonary rehabilitation if beneficial. The goal is to optimize symptom control, reduce exacerbations, improve lung function, and enhance overall quality of life.

What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Park recommend them?

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are a group of non-invasive breathing tests that measure how well the lungs are working. They assess lung volume (how much air the lungs can hold), airflow rates (how quickly air can be moved in and out), and gas exchange (how well oxygen moves from the lungs into the blood). Dr. Park might recommend PFTs to help diagnose conditions like asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or to assess the severity of a known lung disease, monitor its progression, or evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. Common PFTs include spirometry, lung volume measurement, and diffusing capacity tests.

What does a Respirologist / Pulmonologist like Dr. Park do?

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Park is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases and conditions of the lungs and respiratory system. This includes conditions like asthma, COPD (emphysema, chronic bronchitis), pneumonia, lung cancer, sleep apnea, interstitial lung diseases, and pleural diseases. Their goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms like shortness of breath and cough, and enhance the quality of life for people with breathing problems. They use various diagnostic tools like pulmonary function tests and bronchoscopy, and treatments including medications, inhalers, oxygen therapy, and management of devices like CPAP machines.

3-1179 Seafield Cres
Nanaimo, BC, V9S 4S1

Phone: (250) 591-0886

Dr. Kirily Park is a licensed Respirologist in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: 65400

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/332167/Park%2CKirily

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is typically required to see Dr. Park. Dr. Park and the team are dedicated to providing comprehensive respiratory care. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or severe difficulty breathing, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.