About
Dr. Ritchie Arthur Lewis Younger, a respected Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Doctor (ENT Doctor), is committed to providing compassionate and patient-centered care for individuals with ear, nose, and throat concerns. Practicing at a clinic in Vancouver, BC, he serves the local community with a focus on delivering high-quality ENT services. He adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines set forth by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that patients receive safe and effective care. Dr. Younger specializes in providing comprehensive care in general Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, addressing a broad spectrum of conditions affecting both adults and children.
He graduated with an MD from the University of Alberta in 1979 and completed extensive postgraduate training in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Younger holds certifications including the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical excellence. His training enables him to diagnose and treat complex ENT conditions with a thorough and evidence-based approach.
Dr. Younger is dedicated to patient education and collaborative care, believing that informed patients are key to successful treatment outcomes. He strives to provide high-quality ENT care in Vancouver, emphasizing a personalized approach tailored to each patient's unique needs. He communicates fluently in English and is committed to ensuring a positive and supportive experience for all patients seeking his expertise.
Dr. Ritchie Younger manages a variety of conditions related to the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Some common areas of treatment include:
Specific Pediatric ENT Conditions
- Enlarged Tonsils & Adenoids causing Airway Obstruction or Sleep Apnea: Swollen tonsils and adenoids in children that can block the airway, leading to snoring, mouth breathing, or sleep-disordered breathing.
- Velopharyngeal Insufficiency (VPI): A condition where the soft palate does not close tightly against the back of the throat during speech, leading to nasal-sounding speech.
- Pediatric Allergic Rhinitis & Sinusitis: Allergic reactions affecting the nasal passages and sinuses in children, requiring age-appropriate management strategies.
- Laryngomalacia & Other Congenital Airway Abnormalities: Congenital conditions affecting the structure or function of a child's larynx or airway, potentially causing noisy breathing (stridor).
Common Ear Conditions
- Chronic Otitis Media (Persistent Middle Ear Infection/Inflammation): Long-lasting or recurring infection or inflammation of the middle ear, potentially leading to hearing loss or eardrum perforation.
Common Nose and Sinus Conditions
- Sinus Headaches: Headaches characterized by pain and pressure in the face, often related to sinus inflammation or infection.
- Fungal Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses caused by a fungal infection, which can range from non-invasive to invasive forms.
- Anosmia / Hyposmia (Loss or Decreased Sense of Smell): The partial or complete loss of the sense of smell, which can be caused by nasal/sinus disease, viral infections, or other factors.
- Nasal Polyps: Soft, painless, noncancerous growths on the lining of the nasal passages or sinuses, often linked to chronic inflammation from asthma, allergies, or infections.
This list is not exhaustive and provides examples of common conditions. If you have specific concerns regarding your ear, nose, throat, or head/neck health, please consult with Dr. Ritchie Younger or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral.
- Interpretation of CT & MRI Scans of Head, Neck, Sinuses & Temporal Bones: Expert review of advanced imaging studies to diagnose complex ENT conditions.
- Allergy Testing (Skin Prick or Blood Tests - Referral or In-house): Identification of specific allergens (pollens, dust mites, molds, foods) contributing to ENT symptoms, guiding targeted treatment strategies.
- Flexible & Rigid Laryngoscopy / Stroboscopy: Examination of the larynx (voice box) and vocal cords using specialized endoscopic techniques to assess voice, airway, and swallowing disorders. Stroboscopy provides slow-motion view of vocal cord vibration.
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy of Head & Neck Masses: Minimally invasive procedure to obtain cell samples from thyroid nodules, lymph nodes, or other head and neck masses for diagnosis, often under ultrasound guidance.
- Comprehensive ENT Consultation & Examination: Thorough evaluation of ear, nose, throat, head, and neck conditions, including detailed history taking, physical examination, and formulation of a treatment plan.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common otolaryngology services. Dr. Younger offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment options for conditions of the ear, nose, throat, and head/neck. Specific services may vary based on individual patient needs and Dr. Younger's areas of focus.
All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). A referral may be required.
Dr. Ritchie Younger primarily practices at a modern clinic located in the Kitsilano neighborhood of Vancouver, BC, offering convenient access to patients from the Gastown Historic District and surrounding areas. The location is easily reachable via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus routes, SeaBus, and the West Coast Express (Waterfront). The facility is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available at the facility.
- Are services from Dr. Younger, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, diagnostic tests, and surgical procedures performed by a licensed Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Younger are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective or cosmetic procedures may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the clinic if you have questions.
- Do I need a referral from my doctor to see Dr. Younger, an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon?
- Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Otolaryngologist - Head and Neck Surgeon like Dr. Younger. This ensures coordinated care. Some clinics may offer non-insured consultations without a referral, but this is not standard for provincially covered services. Please check with the clinic or your referring doctor.
- I've had a hoarse voice for several weeks. What could be causing this?
- Persistent hoarseness (lasting more than 2-3 weeks) should be evaluated by an ENT specialist. Common causes include laryngitis (viral or bacterial), voice overuse or misuse, acid reflux (LPR), vocal cord nodules or polyps, smoking, allergies, or less commonly, more serious conditions like vocal cord paralysis or laryngeal cancer. Dr. Younger will likely perform a laryngoscopy to visualize your vocal cords and determine the cause of your hoarseness.
105-2025 Broadway W
Vancouver, BC V6J 1Z6
Phone: (604) 738-3223 | Fax: (604) 730-2838
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Younger is a licensed physician and surgeon, regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to schedule an appointment for provincially insured services.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/352643/Younger%2CRitchie