Dr. Richard David Cohen – Pulmonologist | North Vancouver, BC

Dr. Richard David Cohen is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in North Vancouver, BC, Dr. Cohen is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Cohen 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. Cohen 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. Richard David Cohen earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of Cape Town, South Africa, graduating in 1976. Following this, Dr. Cohen completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 49 years of specialized practice since 1976, Dr. Cohen's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Cohen 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. Cohen's medical practice philosophy include: promoting optimal lung function and helping patients achieve the best possible quality of life; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in respiratory care. Dr. Cohen provides consultations in English.

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

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Other Interstitial Lung Diseases: Comprehensive diagnostic workup and tailored management for diverse conditions causing diffuse lung scarring and inflammation.
• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Diagnosing and treating lung inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled organic dusts, molds, or chemicals.
• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): Specialized care for a complex form of interstitial lung disease leading to irreversible lung damage.

Pleural Diseases

• Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung - Follow-up Care): Monitoring patients after initial treatment (e.g., chest tube) for a collapsed lung.
• Pleural Effusion: Diagnosing the cause and managing the buildup of excess fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall (pleural space).

Airway Diseases

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Treating progressive lung diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems.
• Chronic Bronchitis: Addressing long-term inflammation of the bronchi (large airways), primarily characterized by a persistent cough with mucus production.
• Bronchiectasis: Focusing on airway clearance techniques, antibiotic therapy for exacerbations, and preventing further lung damage.

Lung Infections

• Pneumonia: Addressing acute lung infections to ensure proper recovery and prevent complications.
• Bronchitis (Acute): Treating acute inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by viral infections, leading to cough and mucus.
• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Managing the lung-related aspects of this infectious bacterial disease.

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

• Diagnostic Bronchoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to examine the inside of the lungs' airways for diagnostic purposes.
• Inhaler Technique and Respiratory Device Training: Helping patients master the use of their respiratory equipment to improve medication delivery to the lungs.
• Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) Interpretation: Expert interpretation of a full range of pulmonary function tests (spirometry, lung volumes, diffusing capacity, bronchoprovocation) to assess lung health and diagnose conditions like asthma and COPD.
• Management of Pneumonia and Lung Infections: Diagnosis and treatment of various lung infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal pneumonia, and coordination of follow-up care.
• Oxygen Therapy Prescription and Management: Ensuring appropriate use and settings for home oxygen therapy.

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

• Overcoming or effectively managing trouble catching their breath after a recent illness like COVID-19 is a common journey for patients under Dr. Cohen's care. The treatment philosophy centers on enabling improved lung function as measured by pulmonary function tests, so that daily routines and pleasures like laughing heartily without triggering a coughing fit or severe breathlessness become more manageable again.
• If their child having persistent coughing, wheezing, or frequent respiratory illnesses is preventing you from fully enjoying reducing their reliance on rescue inhalers due to better baseline control or causing significant discomfort, Dr. Cohen offers expert respiratory solutions. The primary aim is to achieve being able to travel or engage in hobbies that were previously limited by breathlessness through comprehensive and personalized care.
• Understanding the frustration feeling anxious about their breathing problems and how it affects their life can cause, Dr. Cohen tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve being able to be more physically active without severe breathlessness, allowing for renewed participation in activities like attending social events and feeling confident in their ability to manage their breathing.
• The path to improved respiratory wellness, especially when facing finding it harder and harder to breathe during exercise or daily tasks, involves working systematically towards early detection of lung cancer, leading to better treatment options. Dr. Cohen expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including concentrating better at work or school without distraction from respiratory symptoms.

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

Dr. Cohen'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. Patient parking is typically available nearby or on-site.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Cohen 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. Cohen 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. Cohen at the clinic?

The first visit with Dr. Cohen 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. Cohen 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. Cohen 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. Cohen 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. Cohen 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.

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

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Cohen 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. Cohen 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.

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

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

4573 Capilano Rd
North Vancouver, BC, V7R 4K2

Phone: (604) 762-7295

Dr. Richard David Cohen 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: 6660

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/306102/Cohen%2CRichard

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