About
Dr. Kristopher Mitchel Kowal is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at a neurology clinic within a hospital department in Surrey, BC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. Dr. Kowal adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that his practice maintains the utmost professionalism and quality of care. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His approach is patient-centered, emphasizing personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions, fostering understanding and collaboration.
He holds a medical degree (MD) from the University of Calgary in Canada and is board-certified as a Neurologist by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training and certification reflect a commitment to excellence and ongoing professional development in the field of neurology. Dr. Kowal stays current with advances in neurological research and treatment modalities, ensuring his patients benefit from evidence-based practices and innovative therapies.
Dr. Kowal’s clinical philosophy centers on providing holistic, compassionate, and effective neurological care. He believes in educating his patients about their conditions, involving them in decision-making, and supporting them throughout their treatment journey. Fluent in English, he is dedicated to delivering clear communication and thorough explanations, helping patients in Surrey and surrounding areas achieve optimal nervous system health and quality of life.
Dr. Kristopher Kowal addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
Movement Disorders
- Dystonia (Focal, Segmental, Generalized): A movement disorder in which a person's muscles contract uncontrollably, causing repetitive or twisting movements.
- Essential Tremor: A nervous system disorder (neurological disorder) that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking, most often in the hands.
- Huntington's Disease & Other Choreas: Inherited or acquired conditions causing involuntary, irregular, and unpredictable muscle movements.
Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases
- Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD): An autoimmune inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord.
- Transverse Myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord, often causing weakness, sensory changes, and autonomic dysfunction below the level of the lesion.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Relapsing-Remitting, Primary Progressive, Secondary Progressive: A chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) by damaging the myelin sheath.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Kristopher Kowal.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
- Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
- Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
- Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
- Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Kowal for care relevant to your needs.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Kowal practices within a modern neurology department located in Surrey’s Guildford, Fraser Heights neighbourhood. The facility is conveniently accessible via the upcoming Future SkyTrain Extension, with multiple transit options including the TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). The location is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Ample parking is available with metered street parking and nearby parking lots, making visits straightforward for patients and their families.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Kowal, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Kowal, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. Kowal's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Kowal, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Kowal for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.
- When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?
- You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Kowal if needed.
- What does a Neurologist do for stroke patients?
- For acute ischemic stroke, neurologists in a hospital setting are involved in rapid diagnosis and administration of time-sensitive treatments like thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) or coordinating endovascular thrombectomy. After a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack), a neurologist like Dr. Kowal focuses on identifying the cause and implementing strategies for secondary prevention to reduce the risk of future strokes. This includes managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and recommending antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications and lifestyle changes.
- What does a Neurologist like Dr. Kowal specialize in?
- A Neurologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of disorders affecting the nervous system. This includes the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves (nerves outside the brain and spinal cord), and muscles. He is a Neurologist specializing in disorders of the nervous system. Dr. Kowal is trained to investigate, diagnose, and treat a wide range of neurological conditions. He specializes in neurology, with expertise in disorders such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, movement disorders, and neuropathies. His approach is evidence-based, patient-centered, and focused on achieving optimal neurological health for his patients.
9750 140 St, Level 3C, Neurology, Jim Pattison Outpatient Care Surgery Centre
Surrey, BC V3T 0G9
Phone: (604) 582-4561 | Fax: (604) 582-3784
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Kowal is a licensed Neurologist 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 is typically required for consultations with Dr. Kowal for services covered by the provincial health plan.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/334626/Kowal%2CKristopher