Dr. Raymond Gottschalk – Pulmonologist | Surrey, BC

Dr. Raymond Gottschalk is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in Surrey, BC, Dr. Gottschalk is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Gottschalk 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. As a certified specialist in Respirology (also known as Pulmonology), Dr. Gottschalk focuses 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. Gottschalk serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions.

Dr. Raymond Gottschalk earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of Cape Town, South Africa, graduating in 1981. Following this, Dr. Gottschalk completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 44 years of specialized practice since 1981, Dr. Gottschalk's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Gottschalk 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. Gottschalk's medical practice philosophy include: a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and lifestyle; promoting optimal lung function and helping patients achieve the best possible quality of life. Dr. Gottschalk is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Afrikaans.

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

Pleural Diseases

• Pleurisy (Pleuritis): Identifying the underlying cause, such as viral infection or autoimmune disease, and managing pain and inflammation.
• Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung - Follow-up Care): Providing follow-up care and management after a pneumothorax (air in the pleural space causing lung collapse) to ensure resolution and prevent recurrence.

Airway Diseases

• Chronic Bronchitis: A component of COPD, managed with strategies to reduce airway inflammation and improve mucus clearance.
• Emphysema: Managing this lung condition where the air sacs (alveoli) are damaged and enlarged, causing breathlessness.
• Bronchiectasis: Focusing on airway clearance techniques, antibiotic therapy for exacerbations, and preventing further lung damage.

Lung Infections

• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Respiratory assessment and follow-up for patients undergoing treatment for tuberculosis.
• Pneumonia: Management of community-acquired, hospital-acquired, and aspiration pneumonia.
• Bronchitis (Acute): Treating acute inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by viral infections, leading to cough and mucus.

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Other Interstitial Lung Diseases: Comprehensive diagnostic workup and tailored management for diverse conditions causing diffuse lung scarring and inflammation.
• Sarcoidosis (Pulmonary Manifestations): Monitoring lung function and managing inflammation in patients with sarcoidosis affecting the lungs.
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Identifying and eliminating exposure to the offending antigen, and managing airway inflammation with medication if needed.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Gottschalk, 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: Advocating for participation in structured exercise and education programs tailored for individuals with respiratory conditions.
• Comprehensive Respiratory Evaluation: Expert evaluation for various respiratory symptoms such as chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest discomfort.
• Bronchiectasis Management: Diagnosis and long-term management of bronchiectasis, focusing on airway clearance techniques, infection control, and symptom management.
• COPD Management and Education: Providing education and support to empower individuals with COPD to actively participate in their care.
• Asthma Management and Education: Ongoing management and support for individuals living with asthma of all severities.

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

• For those affected by wanting to understand their lung function test results, Dr. Gottschalk provides solutions that lead to better understanding of how to use their inhalers and medications correctly. This renewed health and confidence often translates to a joyful return to carrying light loads without feeling severely winded.
• It's always a professional highlight for Dr. Gottschalk to see patients who were troubled by needing to manage their oxygen therapy effectively at home successfully achieve feeling more confident in managing their respiratory condition day-to-day. This directly translates to their ability to return to and enjoy important activities like attending social events and feeling confident in their ability to manage their breathing.
• When coughing up blood or blood-streaked mucus starts to interfere with daily life, such as affecting their ability to laughing heartily without triggering a coughing fit or severe breathlessness, Dr. Gottschalk and the team work collaboratively with patients. Success is marked by an effective and personalized management plan for their chronic respiratory illness and a return to comfort and confidence in their breathing.
• Overcoming or effectively managing a family history of lung disease and wanting to understand their risk is a common journey for patients under Dr. Gottschalk's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling being able to travel or engage in hobbies that were previously limited by breathlessness, so that daily routines and pleasures like returning to work or engaging in hobbies they enjoy become more manageable again.

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

Dr. Gottschalk's respiratory clinic in Surrey is situated in the West Newton, Strawberry Hill neighborhood. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near the Museum of Surrey and is easily accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo Line, Bus). Information regarding parking options can be provided when you call to book your appointment.

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

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Gottschalk 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. Gottschalk 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.

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

In BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Respirologist like Dr. Gottschalk 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. Gottschalk has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need a respiratory assessment.

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

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Gottschalk 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.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Gottschalk 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. Gottschalk 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.

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

The first visit with Dr. Gottschalk 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. Gottschalk 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. Gottschalk 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.

What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Gottschalk 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. Gottschalk 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.

13710 94A Ave Unit 114
Surrey, BC, V3V 1N1

Phone: (604) 881-0214

Dr. Raymond Gottschalk 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: 39668

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/374477/Gottschalk%2CRaymond

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