About
Dr. Marcie Jean Ulmer is a dedicated Dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails in adult patients, and may see older children for certain conditions. Practicing at a dermatology clinic in Vancouver, BC, she is a key member of the local medical community. She provides comprehensive medical and surgical dermatological care for a wide variety of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and skin cancer detection. Her practice emphasizes evidence-based care delivered in a compassionate and professional manner, utilizing modern diagnostic and therapeutic equipment. As a licensed member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), Dr. Ulmer adheres to the highest standards of medical practice to ensure optimal patient outcomes.
Dr. Ulmer graduated with an MD from the University of Saskatchewan in Canada and holds specialty certification as a Dermatologist, with certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her extensive training and ongoing professional development ensure she remains current with advances in dermatological care and technology, allowing her to offer her patients the latest treatment options for various skin conditions.
With a deep commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Ulmer emphasizes the importance of education on skin health and prevention, early detection of skin cancers, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. She provides care in English and is dedicated to supporting her patients in Vancouver through evidence-based, compassionate dermatological services aimed at improving skin health and overall well-being.
Dr. Marcie Ulmer diagnoses and treats a wide range of skin, hair, and nail conditions, including:
Skin Cancers, Precancerous Lesions & Benign Growths
- Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type of skin cancer, typically slow-growing and arising from sun-exposed skin, appearing as a pearly or waxy bump, flat flesh-colored or brown scar-like lesion, or a bleeding/scabbing sore.
- Actinic Keratosis (Solar Keratosis): A rough, scaly patch on sun-exposed skin that is considered precancerous and can sometimes progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
Nail Disorders (Onychopathies)
- Nail Psoriasis: Psoriasis affecting the fingernails and toenails, causing pitting, discoloration (oil drop sign), thickening, onycholysis (separation from bed), and subungual hyperkeratosis.
- Ingrown Toenails (Onychocryptosis): A condition where the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh, causing pain, redness, swelling, and potential infection.
- Nail Unit Tumors (Benign & Malignant): Various growths that can occur in or around the nail unit, including benign (e.g., glomus tumor, myxoid cyst) and malignant (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma) tumors.
Hair & Scalp Disorders
- Tinea Capitis (Scalp Ringworm): A fungal infection of the scalp and hair shafts, common in children, causing scaly patches, hair loss, and sometimes inflammation.
- Telogen Effluvium: A type of temporary, diffuse hair shedding often triggered by significant stress, illness, surgery, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal changes (e.g., postpartum).
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific dermatological condition, please consult with Dr. Marcie Ulmer.
- Sclerotherapy for Spider & Small Varicose Veins: Injectable treatment (e.g., with polidocanol or hypertonic saline) to eliminate small, unsightly veins (telangiectasias and reticular veins) primarily on the legs.
- Diagnostic Mycology (Fungal Scrapings & Cultures): Collecting skin, hair, or nail samples to identify fungal infections through microscopic examination (e.g., KOH prep) or fungal culture.
- Scar Revision Surgery & Keloid Treatment (Surgical, Intralesional Injections): Procedures to improve the appearance of scars or treat problematic keloid scars, which may involve surgical excision, steroid injections, or other modalities.
- Cosmetic Mole Removal & Skin Tag Removal: Removal of benign moles or skin tags for aesthetic reasons, typically after dermatoscopic confirmation that the lesion is not suspicious for cancer.
- Management of Autoimmune Skin Diseases (Lupus, Dermatomyositis, Pemphigus, Pemphigoid, Vasculitis): Diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune connective tissue diseases with skin manifestations and autoimmune blistering diseases, often in collaboration with rheumatologists or other specialists. May involve topical, oral, or biologic therapies.
- Mohs Micrographic Surgery for High-Risk Skin Cancers: Specialized surgical technique for removing complex or high-risk skin cancers (especially on the head, neck, hands, feet, genitals) with maximal tissue preservation by examining 100% of the surgical margin intraoperatively.
- Interpretation of Dermatopathology Reports & Second Opinions: Expert analysis of skin biopsy results to confirm diagnoses, guide treatment strategies, and provide second opinions on complex dermatopathology cases.
Note: This list provides a general overview of medical and potentially some cosmetic services. Treatment plans are highly individualized. Discuss with Dr. Ulmer for care relevant to your specific condition. Coverage for services varies; medically necessary treatments are typically covered by provincial health plans, while cosmetic procedures are usually self-pay.
All medical and surgical services (if applicable) are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant dermatological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.
Dr. Ulmer practices at a dermatology clinic situated in Vancouver's Shaughnessy area, within the vibrant Arbutus Ridge South neighbourhood. The clinic is conveniently located along a busy Commercial Corridor, easily accessible by public transit options including TransLink's SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus, SeaBus, and West Coast Express services at the Waterfront station. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfortable entry for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots are available for those arriving by car, providing flexible options for patients visiting the clinic.
- Are consultations and dermatological treatments with Dr. Ulmer, a Dermatologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Dermatologist like Dr. Ulmer, diagnostic procedures (e.g., skin biopsies), and treatments for provincially insured skin conditions (e.g., psoriasis, severe eczema, skin cancer, infections) are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor is in place. Purely cosmetic procedures (e.g., Botox for wrinkles, most laser hair removal, fillers for aesthetic enhancement) are typically not covered and are self-pay. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed treatment with Dr. Ulmer's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP) beforehand, especially if there's a potential cosmetic component.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Ulmer, a Dermatologist?
- Yes, for medically necessary dermatological care covered by the provincial health plan, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (e.g., an ER doctor for an acute issue) is almost always required to see a Dermatologist such as Dr. Ulmer. This ensures coordinated care and that your visit is appropriate for specialist assessment. Some dermatologists may offer consultations for uninsured cosmetic services without a referral, but these would be a direct cost to you. Always check with the clinic regarding their specific referral policy.
- If Dr. Ulmer recommends phototherapy, what does that involve?
- Phototherapy, also known as light therapy, is a medical treatment where your skin is exposed to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light under strict medical supervision. Dr. Ulmer might recommend it for conditions like psoriasis, eczema, vitiligo, or cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Treatments are typically given 2-3 times a week in a specialized light cabinet or with a handheld device for smaller areas. The type of UV light (e.g., Narrowband UVB, PUVA) and treatment duration are carefully controlled. It works by reducing inflammation and slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells. You'll be given specific instructions, including eye protection.
- What kind of sunscreen does Dr. Ulmer recommend?
- While specific brand recommendations can vary, Dr. Ulmer would likely advise choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher. For daily use, a lighter formulation might be preferred, while for prolonged outdoor activities, water-resistant sunscreen is important. Consider your skin type: individuals with sensitive skin might prefer mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. The most important thing is to apply sunscreen generously and reapply it every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating. Dr. Ulmer can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin type and lifestyle during your consultation.
Suite 200-2425 Hemlock Street, Pacific Derm
Vancouver, BC V6H 4E1
Phone: (604) 682-7546 | Fax: (604) 687-5462
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Ulmer is a licensed Dermatologist 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. Ulmer for medically necessary services covered by the provincial health plan. Cosmetic consultations may have different requirements.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/328279/Ulmer%2CMarcie