About
With expertise in Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Dr. Natalie Hunter provides crucial diagnostic insights to referring physicians. Practicing at medical facilities in North Vancouver, BC, she supports various clinical departments with patient-safety focused imaging services. Her practice is aligned with the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Areas of subspecialty focus or particular interest may include diagnostic radiology, ensuring comprehensive evaluation and accurate diagnosis for patients requiring imaging or image-guided procedures.
Dr. Hunter graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia in 2004. She completed extensive post-graduate training in Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, acquiring advanced skills in image interpretation and minimally invasive procedures. She holds certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high professional standards and clinical excellence.
Her clinical philosophy emphasizes patient safety and diagnostic accuracy. Dr. Hunter is dedicated to providing detailed and reliable imaging assessments in North Vancouver, ensuring patients receive safe, timely, and precise diagnoses. She communicates fluently in English, ensuring clear and compassionate interactions with her patients and colleagues.
- Fluoroscopy Procedure Interpretation: Interpreting real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) used during procedures like barium studies (GI tract), hysterosalpingograms, or to guide certain injections.
- Ultrasound Interpretation (Sonography): Evaluation and reporting of diagnostic ultrasound images for assessing organs (e.g., liver, kidneys, thyroid, reproductive organs), blood flow, pregnancies, and musculoskeletal conditions.
- X-ray Interpretation (Radiography): Expert analysis and reporting of X-ray images for diagnosing conditions related to bones (fractures, arthritis), chest (pneumonia, lung nodules), and abdomen.
- Bone Densitometry (DEXA) Scan Interpretation: Analyzing DEXA scans to measure bone mineral density, assess osteoporosis risk, and monitor treatment effectiveness.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Interpretation: Specialized analysis and reporting of MRI scans, providing detailed images of soft tissues, brain, spine, joints, abdomen, and pelvis without using ionizing radiation.
Note: This list provides an overview of common radiology services. Dr. Hunter interprets a wide range of medical imaging studies and/or performs procedures as indicated by your referring physician. Specific subspecialty services depend on the physician's focus and training.
All medical imaging services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).
Dr. Hunter primarily practices at medical imaging facilities situated near the central North Vancouver neighborhood of North Vancouver, conveniently accessible via local public transit routes. The area is close to local points of interest such as Lonsdale Quay and the North Vancouver District Library. Patients can reach her services easily from surrounding communities. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are imaging studies interpreted by Dr. Hunter covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary diagnostic imaging studies interpreted by a Radiologist like Dr. Hunter are typically covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when prescribed by your referring physician and performed at an accredited medical facility. Some advanced or specialized interventional procedures may also be covered. It's always best to confirm specific coverage details with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the imaging clinic/hospital.
- Do I need a referral from my doctor to have an imaging study interpreted by Dr. Hunter?
- Yes, almost all diagnostic imaging tests (like X-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasounds) and interventional radiology procedures require a formal request or requisition from your family doctor, specialist, or other authorized healthcare provider. Dr. Hunter provides expert interpretation of these physician-ordered studies.
- What's the difference between an MRI and a CT scan?
- Both are advanced imaging tests, but they use different technologies. CT (Computed Tomography) scans utilize X-rays and a computer to produce detailed cross-sectional images, making them ideal for evaluating bones, lungs, abdomen, and detecting acute bleeding. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to generate highly detailed images of soft tissues like the brain, spine, joints, and internal organs, without exposing patients to ionizing radiation. Your doctor or Dr. Hunter will determine which modality best suits your specific medical needs.
- What does a Radiologist actually do? Do they take the pictures?
- A Radiologist, such as Dr. Hunter, is a medical doctor who has completed extensive specialized training in interpreting all types of medical images, including X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasounds, and nuclear medicine studies. They analyze these images to diagnose diseases and injuries and provide detailed reports to your referring physician. While radiologic technologists operate the imaging equipment to acquire the images, the Radiologist is responsible for the expert interpretation. Some Radiologists, known as Interventional Radiologists, also perform minimally invasive, image-guided procedures.
71-3050 Edgemont Boul
North Vancouver, BC V7R 4X1
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Hunter is a licensed physician regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. Imaging services are typically provided based on referrals from other physicians.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/328068/Hunter%2CNatalie