Dr. Rajesh Rai Mainra – Pulmonologist | North Vancouver, BC

Dr. Rajesh Rai Mainra is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in North Vancouver, BC, Dr. Mainra is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Mainra is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and upholds the highest professional and ethical standards of medical practice in BC.

Dr. Mainra serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions as a certified specialist in Respirology (also known as Pulmonology), focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system. The goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for patients with breathing disorders.

Dr. Rajesh Rai Mainra earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of Saskatchewan, graduating in 1992. Following this, Dr. Mainra completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 33 years of specialized practice since 1992, Dr. Mainra's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Mainra is dedicated to ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest advancements in respiratory medicine to provide optimal patient care. Key aspects of Dr. Mainra's medical practice philosophy include: a holistic view of respiratory health, considering all factors that impact breathing and well-being; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in respiratory care; a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and lifestyle. Dr. Mainra is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Hindi, Punjabi (panjabi) and Urdu.

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

Lung Infections

• Bronchitis (Acute): Differentiating from chronic bronchitis and providing symptomatic relief for short-term airway inflammation.
• Pneumonia: Management of community-acquired, hospital-acquired, and aspiration pneumonia.
• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Managing the lung-related aspects of this infectious bacterial disease.

Airway Diseases

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Management strategies for COPD, including medication, smoking cessation support, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
• Bronchiectasis: Care for individuals with persistent cough, copious sputum, and frequent respiratory infections due to bronchiectasis.

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): Specialized care for a complex form of interstitial lung disease leading to irreversible lung damage.
• Other Interstitial Lung Diseases: Evaluating and managing a wide range of less common ILDs, including those associated with connective tissue diseases, drug-induced ILD, and unclassifiable ILDs.

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

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Referral: Coordinating with pulmonary rehabilitation teams to support patients with chronic lung diseases.
• COPD Management and Education: Providing education and support to empower individuals with COPD to actively participate in their care.
• Pleural Effusion Management: Diagnosing the cause of pleural effusions (fluid around the lungs) and managing them, which may include therapeutic thoracentesis (fluid drainage) in an outpatient setting if appropriate.
• Management of Pneumonia and Lung Infections: Outpatient management of appropriate respiratory infections, ensuring adequate recovery and resolution.
• Chest Imaging Interpretation: Expert review and interpretation of chest X-rays, CT scans, and other thoracic imaging studies to identify and assess lung abnormalities.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Mainra. 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. Rajesh Rai Mainra 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. Rajesh Rai Mainra'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. Mainra frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• The journey from fluid buildup around their lungs making it hard to breathe to wellness often involves Dr. Mainra's dedicated care. The milestone is a clear diagnosis and a better understanding of their specific lung condition, which opens the door back to activities such as enjoying a leisurely walk in the park or around their neighborhood.
• Dr. Mainra often consults with patients whose a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis and needing specialized care significantly limits their enjoyment of going on outings with family and friends without constant worry about their breathing or impacts their well-being. The clear goal of care is to achieve slowed progression of their chronic lung disease where possible and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
• Patients presenting with snoring very loudly, choking or gasping for air during sleep, and feeling tired all day can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of being able to be more physically active without severe breathlessness under Dr. Mainra's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume being able to lie flat in bed comfortably (for some conditions) without the former limitations or discomfort.
• With Dr. Mainra's compassionate and skilled respiratory care, managing unexplained weight loss combined with a persistent cough is focused on achieving feeling more confident in managing their respiratory condition day-to-day. This empowers patients to get back to what they love, such as being able to walking up a flight of stairs without becoming excessively breathless without severe breathing concerns.

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

Dr. Mainra's respiratory clinic in North Vancouver is situated in a central location within the North Vancouver neighborhood of North Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near local healthcare facilities and community services and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Please inquire about parking when you schedule your visit.

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

In British Columbia, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Respirologist like Dr. Mainra for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC. This referral ensures the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Mainra has the necessary background medical information. If you believe you need a respiratory assessment, speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Mainra 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. Mainra are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided you have a valid health card and an 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. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance, if applicable.

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

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are a group of non-invasive breathing tests that measure how well your lungs are working. They assess lung volume, airflow rates, and gas exchange. Dr. Mainra 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. Mainra do?

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Mainra is a medical doctor specializing in diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases and conditions of the lungs and respiratory system. This includes conditions like asthma, COPD, pneumonia, lung cancer, sleep apnea, interstitial lung diseases, and pleural diseases. Their goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms, and enhance quality of life. They use various diagnostic tools and treatments including medications, inhalers, oxygen therapy, and management of devices like CPAP machines.

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

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

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

Your first visit with Dr. Mainra will typically involve a comprehensive respiratory assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, current respiratory symptoms, how these symptoms impact your daily activities, smoking history, environmental exposures, and any previous treatments. Dr. Mainra will perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the respiratory system. Any prior imaging or test results will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Mainra will discuss their diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and will outline potential treatment options, working with you to establish health goals.

217-1433 Lonsdale Ave E
North Vancouver, BC, V7M 2H9

Phone: (604) 984-8480

Dr. Rajesh Rai Mainra 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: 25920

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/324279/Mainra%2CRajesh

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is typically required to see Dr. Mainra. Dr. Mainra 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.