About
Dr. Ross Everett Chang is a dedicated Allergist / Immunologist, committed to providing expert care for patients of all ages with allergic or immunologic conditions. Practicing at Chang Ross E Dr in Burnaby, BC, he is a trusted provider of specialized allergy and immunology care in the community. The clinic adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring that every patient receives thorough, respectful, and evidence-based treatment. With a focus on patient-centered care, Dr. Chang employs up-to-date diagnostic tools and tailored management strategies to address a wide spectrum of allergic and immunologic conditions, fostering a supportive environment for patient health and well-being.
Graduating with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 1979, Dr. Chang completed his residency training in Internal Medicine, followed by a specialized fellowship in Clinical Immunology and Allergy. He is a board-certified Allergist / Immunologist with extensive postgraduate training in allergy and immunology, holding key certifications including Certification by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His rigorous educational background and ongoing commitment to professional development underscore his expertise in the field, enabling him to deliver comprehensive and current allergy and immunology care.
Dr. Chang’s professional philosophy centers on the importance of accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and empowering patients with knowledge about their conditions. He is dedicated to utilizing evidence-based approaches and the latest advancements in allergy and immunology to improve quality of life by minimizing symptoms and preventing severe reactions. His collaborative approach involves working closely with primary care physicians and other specialists to ensure integrated, comprehensive care. All communications and care are provided in English, with a steadfast dedication to the health and well-being of patients in Burnaby and surrounding communities.
Dr. Ross Chang provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of allergic and immunologic conditions, including:
Insect Sting and Other Specific Allergies
Dr. Chang manages allergic reactions to various specific triggers, including insect venoms, latex, or other less common allergens.
- Mast Cell Disorders (e.g., Mastocytosis, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome): Conditions involving abnormal accumulation or activation of mast cells, leading to symptoms like flushing, itching, hives, abdominal pain, and anaphylaxis.
- Insect Sting Allergies (Bee, Wasp, Hornet, Yellow Jacket, Fire Ant): Diagnosis involves skin testing or blood tests for venom-specific IgE.
- Alpha-Gal Allergy (Red Meat Allergy): Symptoms typically occur 3-6 hours after meat consumption.
Skin Allergies and Dermatitis
Dr. Chang manages inflammatory skin conditions often triggered or exacerbated by allergic reactions to environmental substances, foods, or direct contact with irritants/allergens.
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): Characterized by dry, red, itchy patches of skin.
- Urticaria (Hives) - Acute and Chronic: Can be triggered by allergens, infections, medications, or be idiopathic (unknown cause).
- Angioedema: Requires prompt evaluation and management, including emergency preparedness.
Immunodeficiency Disorders
Dr. Chang manages conditions where the immune system's ability to fight infections and diseases is compromised or absent.
- Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases (PIDD): A group of over 400 rare, chronic disorders in which part of the body's immune system is missing or functions improperly.
- Recurrent Infections (Evaluation for Underlying Immunodeficiency): Aims to identify if an underlying immune system problem is present.
- Humoral (Antibody) Deficiencies: Often treated with immunoglobulin replacement therapy.
This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your condition, a consultation with Dr. Ross Chang is necessary.
- Comprehensive Allergy and Immunology Consultation: Development of personalized diagnostic and management plans.
- Blood Tests for Allergy (e.g., Specific IgE testing): Useful when skin testing is not feasible or to supplement skin test results.
- Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) for Food Allergies (Specialized Centres): Requires careful patient selection and close monitoring.
- Recurrent Infection Evaluation: Assessment for underlying immune system abnormalities or other contributing factors.
- Drug Allergy Evaluation and Management (including Desensitization): Drug desensitization procedures for patients who require a medication to which they are allergic (performed in a hospital setting).
- Allergy Skin Testing (Prick/Puncture and Intradermal): Intradermal testing may be used for evaluating certain allergies with higher sensitivity.
Note: This list provides an overview. Specific diagnostic tests and treatment plans are determined after a thorough consultation with Dr. Chang.
All allergy and immunology 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 Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI) and relevant international guidelines. A referral from a physician is generally required for consultation.
Dr. Chang primarily practices at the clinic located in Burnaby's Central Burnaby, BCIT Area neighbourhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near Central Park and accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium Lines, Bus). The facility is equipped for allergy testing and consultations, providing a professional and welcoming environment for patients seeking allergy and immunology care. On-site or nearby public parking is generally available, ensuring ease of access for all patients.
- What are some common conditions treated by Dr. Chang?
- As an Allergist and Immunologist, Dr. Chang manages numerous conditions related to the immune system. These frequently include environmental allergies, food sensitivities and allergies, medication reactions, chronic sinus problems, skin rashes like eczema, and disorders where the immune system is underactive or overactive. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
- Are services from Dr. Chang covered by provincial health insurance?
- Medically necessary services provided by an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Chang, such as consultations, diagnostic allergy testing (e.g., skin prick tests for common allergens when indicated), and management of asthma or immunodeficiencies, are generally covered by your provincial health plan, Medical Services Plan (MSP). Consultations with an Allergist / Immunologist like Dr. Chang, as well as medically necessary diagnostic tests (e.g., skin prick tests for common allergens) and management of conditions like asthma or immunodeficiencies, are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP). However, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets/drops) and some newer biologic medications may have specific coverage criteria or require special authorization. It is recommended to confirm coverage details with Dr. Chang's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- What types of allergy testing does Dr. Chang perform?
- Dr. Chang may perform several types of allergy tests to help identify your specific triggers. The most common is skin prick testing, where small amounts of allergens are applied to the skin. Blood tests (like Specific IgE tests) may also be used. For contact dermatitis, patch testing might be done. Depending on the suspected allergy (e.g., food or drug), supervised oral challenges could be considered in a controlled setting. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
- Does Dr. Chang offer allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops)?
- Yes, Allergist / Immunologists like Dr. Chang often prescribe and manage allergen immunotherapy. This treatment, available as allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy or SCIT) or under-the-tongue tablets/drops (sublingual immunotherapy or SLIT for certain allergens), helps your body build tolerance to specific allergens over time, reducing symptoms of hay fever, allergic asthma, or insect sting allergies. He can determine if immunotherapy is a suitable option for you. specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of allergies, asthma, and disorders of the immune system.
- How does Dr. Chang help manage food allergies?
- For food allergies, Dr. Chang focuses on precise diagnosis, clear guidance on avoiding the trigger food(s), and ensuring you are prepared for accidental exposures with an emergency plan and epinephrine. Ongoing support and education for patients and families are key components of care.
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Chang?
- For most consultations with Dr. Chang that are medically necessary and covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP), a referral from your family doctor is typically needed. This helps in coordinating your care effectively. Some specialized allergy clinics or services might have different referral processes, so it's always good to check with their office. The clinic's fax number for referrals is typically (604) 433-2846.
- What is involved in an evaluation for a possible immunodeficiency by Dr. Chang?
- If an immunodeficiency is suspected (e.g., due to recurrent, severe, or unusual infections), Dr. Chang will conduct a thorough evaluation. This typically involves a detailed medical and family history, a physical examination, and specialized laboratory tests to assess different components of the immune system (like antibody levels, white blood cell counts and function). The goal is to identify any underlying immune system weakness and develop an appropriate management plan.
Chang Ross E Dr
600-4980 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC V5H 4K7
Office Phone: (604) 433-0545 | Office Fax: (604) 433-2846
Dr. Chang is a licensed Allergist / Immunologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in British Columbia. A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required for a consultation with Dr. Chang, particularly for services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP).
Verify Dr. Chang's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/351806/Chang%2CRoss