Dr. Ronald Derrick Baldassare – Ophthalmologist | Kelowna, BC

Dr. Ronald Derrick Baldassare is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing at Vivid Laser Centre in Kelowna, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. The clinic is situated in the vibrant Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighborhood, conveniently accessible near the Commercial Corridor. It is easily reachable via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), and the eye clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients. The facility offers a professional and welcoming environment, ensuring comprehensive eye care in a patient-friendly setting. Parking is typically available near the clinic, with some accessible spots for those with mobility needs.

Dr. Baldassare graduated with an MD and a Master of Surgery (CM) from McGill University in 1989. He is an experienced Ophthalmologist with extensive postgraduate training, specializing in a broad spectrum of eye care. He holds key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of medical practice. His training and certifications enable him to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions with precision and compassion.

His professional philosophy centers on preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. Dr. Baldassare is dedicated to educating his patients about their eye health and involving them in their treatment decisions. He utilizes advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for precise and effective treatments, with a focus on early detection and management of eye diseases to prevent potential vision loss. He values collaborative care, working closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive well-being for his patients. All communication and care are provided in English, emphasizing clarity and understanding. His commitment is to maintain optimal eye health and enhance quality of life for his patients in Kelowna and beyond.

Dr. Ronald Baldassare provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

Dr. Baldassare addresses management of nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).

• Presbyopia: A natural part of the aging process of the eye.
• Astigmatism: Often occurs in conjunction with myopia or hyperopia.
• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): A condition where near objects may appear blurry (and sometimes distant objects too) because the eye focuses images behind the retina.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Baldassare addresses conditions related to the clouding of the eye's natural lens (cataract) or other lens abnormalities.

• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Clouding of the posterior lens capsule that can occur months or years after cataract surgery.
• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Clouding of the lens present at birth or developing in early childhood.
• Age-Related Cataracts: Surgical removal and lens implant is a highly effective treatment.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. Baldassare addresses a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often characterized by increased intraocular pressure, leading to progressive, irreversible vision loss.

• Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG): Regular eye exams are key for early detection.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): A type of glaucoma where the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, leading to a sudden (acute) or gradual (chronic) rise in eye pressure.
• Normal-Tension Glaucoma: Management focuses on lowering eye pressure further and addressing other potential risk factors.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. Ronald Baldassare is necessary.

• Comprehensive Adult and Pediatric Eye Examinations: Baseline evaluations and routine check-ups for maintaining optimal eye health.
• Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Risk assessment for individuals with family history or other risk factors.
• YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for Secondary Cataract): A quick and painless outpatient laser procedure to treat posterior capsular opacification (secondary cataract) that can occur after cataract surgery.
• Advanced Technology Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Personalized lens selection based on lifestyle and visual goals.
• Emergency Eye Care Services: Urgent evaluation and treatment for acute eye injuries, sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or infections.
• Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Reserved for glaucoma not adequately controlled by medications or laser.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. Baldassare.

All ophthalmology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. A referral from a physician or optometrist may be required for consultation.

Dr. Baldassare practices within Vivid Laser Centre, located in the heart of Kelowna's vibrant Central Kelowna, South Pandosy, Downtown neighbourhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near the Commercial Corridor, making it easily accessible for patients. It is well-connected via the Kelowna Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring convenient access for public transit users. The eye clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, featuring a welcoming environment for comprehensive eye care. Ample parking is typically available nearby, with some accessible parking options to accommodate patients with mobility needs. The clinic offers a professional setting dedicated to providing thorough and compassionate eye care services.

How does Dr. Baldassare treat glaucoma?

Dr. Baldassare manages glaucoma with the goal of lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatment options may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy (like SLT or LPI), or surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage devices, or Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). The specific approach depends on the type and severity of glaucoma.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Baldassare?

Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Baldassare for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Baldassare's office or seek emergency eye care as appropriate, as referral requirements may differ in emergencies. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (250) 979-2080.

What are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. Baldassare?

Dr. Baldassare treats a wide array of eye conditions. Common ones include refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism), cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and eyelid disorders. Depending on any subspecialty training, he may also manage more complex retinal, corneal, or neuro-ophthalmic conditions. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

What does an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Baldassare specialize in?

An Ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Baldassare, is a medical doctor (MD) or doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) who specializes in comprehensive eye and vision care. This includes medical diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of eye diseases and disorders, as well as prescribing eyeglasses and contact lenses. a Ophthalmologist, providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Baldassare?

You should see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Baldassare for comprehensive eye examinations, especially if you have a family history of eye disease, are over 40, or have medical conditions like diabetes that can affect your eyes. Also, seek consultation for any sudden vision changes, eye pain, injury, persistent redness, or if referred by your family doctor or optometrist for a specific eye condition.

Does Dr. Baldassare perform cataract surgery?

Most Ophthalmologists, including Dr. Baldassare, are highly experienced in performing cataract surgery. This outpatient procedure is very effective in improving vision affected by cataracts. Dr. Baldassare would assess the severity of your cataracts and determine if surgery is the best course of action for you.

Are services from Dr. Baldassare covered by provincial health insurance?

Medically necessary services provided by an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Baldassare, such as the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases (e.g., glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy) and medically indicated surgeries (e.g., cataract surgery), are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Medical Services Plan (MSP). However, routine eye exams for adults of certain age groups without specific medical conditions, and procedures considered cosmetic (like elective refractive surgery or some eyelid procedures) are typically not covered. It's advisable to confirm coverage details with Dr. Baldassare's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Vivid Laser Centre
1571 Sutherland Ave
Kelowna, BC V1Y 5Y7

Office Phone: (250) 979-2010 | Office Fax: (250) 979-2080 | Practice Website: http://www.vividlaser.com/

Dr. Baldassare is a licensed Ophthalmologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from a family physician or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Baldassare, particularly for services covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Verify Dr. Baldassare's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/312239/Baldassare%2CRonald