Dr. Ryan Matthew MacIsaac – Neurologist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Ryan Matthew MacIsaac is a dedicated Neurologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles in adult patients. Practicing at a neurology clinic within a hospital department in Victoria, BC, he is an integral part of the local medical community. He provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders. His approach emphasizes personalized, evidence-based treatment tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring high-quality neurological care in a supportive environment. The clinic offers a welcoming setting for patients and families navigating complex neurological conditions, with a focus on clarity, compassion, and clinical excellence.

He holds a medical degree (MD) from the University of Calgary in Canada and is certified as a Neurologist by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. His training and certifications ensure adherence to the highest standards of medical practice, and he maintains ongoing professional development to stay current with advances in neurological care. Dr. MacIsaac is committed to continuous learning and applying the latest evidence-based approaches to improve patient outcomes.

Guided by a philosophy of patient-centered care, Dr. MacIsaac emphasizes a holistic and collaborative approach to neurological health. He values clear communication, patient education, and ongoing support, working closely with patients to develop effective management strategies. Fluent in English, he strives to provide accessible and empathetic care to the adult population of Victoria, BC, and surrounding areas, always prioritizing the well-being and understanding of those he treats.

Dr. Ryan MacIsaac addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
• Seizures or Episodes of Loss of Consciousness: Events involving abnormal electrical brain activity or unexplained blackouts requiring neurological assessment.
• Numbness, Tingling & Weakness (Focal or Generalized): Sensory changes or loss of strength in limbs or other body parts, potentially due to nerve or muscle disorders.

Movement Disorders

• Dystonia (Focal, Segmental, Generalized): A movement disorder in which a person's muscles contract uncontrollably, causing repetitive or twisting movements.
• Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): A condition characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, typically because of an uncomfortable sensation.
• Huntington's Disease & Other Choreas: Inherited or acquired conditions causing involuntary, irregular, and unpredictable muscle movements.

Cognitive Disorders & Dementia

• Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): A group of disorders that primarily affect the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to changes in personality, behavior, and language.
• Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): An intermediate stage between the expected cognitive decline of normal aging and the more serious decline of dementia.
• Alzheimer's Disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease that is the most common cause of dementia, affecting memory, thinking, and behavior.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Ryan MacIsaac.

• Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) - Performance & Interpretation: Diagnostic tests to assess the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them (motor neurons), helping diagnose nerve damage, muscle diseases, and radiculopathies.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.
• Interpretation of Neurological Imaging (MRI, CT scans): Expert review and interpretation of brain and spinal cord imaging to aid in the diagnosis of neurological conditions.
• Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
• Evoked Potential Studies (Visual, Auditory, Somatosensory): Tests that measure the electrical activity in the brain in response to stimulation of sight, sound, or touch, often used in diagnosing MS and other conditions.
• Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Performance or Referral & Interpretation: Procedure to collect cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic testing of conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, MS, or certain neurological infections.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. MacIsaac for care relevant to your needs.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant neurological care guidelines. Contact the clinic regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Dr. MacIsaac practices within a neurology department located in the Fairfield East neighborhood of Victoria, BC. The facility is conveniently situated near Antique Row and Craigdarroch Castle, offering a scenic and accessible environment. Patients can easily reach the clinic via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), with multiple bus routes servicing the area. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients, and parking is available at or near the facility for those arriving by car. The location provides a comfortable setting for adult patients seeking specialized neurological care in Victoria.

Are consultations and treatments with Dr. MacIsaac, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. MacIsaac, as well as many diagnostic tests (e.g., EEG, EMG, review of MRI/CT scans), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Coverage for specific medications, especially newer biologic therapies for conditions like MS or migraine, can vary by provincial formularies and may require special authorization. Some specialized procedures or devices may also have specific coverage criteria. It's always best to discuss coverage specifics with Dr. MacIsaac's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

Do I need a referral to see Dr. MacIsaac, a Neurologist?

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. MacIsaac for assessment or treatment of a neurological condition. This ensures your care is coordinated, that preliminary investigations may have been done, and that you are directed to the most appropriate specialist for your specific symptoms or suspected diagnosis.

What does a Neurologist do for stroke patients?

For acute ischemic stroke, neurologists in a hospital setting are involved in rapid diagnosis and administration of time-sensitive treatments like thrombolysis (clot-busting medication) or coordinating endovascular thrombectomy. After a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack), a neurologist like Dr. MacIsaac focuses on identifying the cause and implementing strategies for secondary prevention to reduce the risk of future strokes. This includes managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and recommending antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications and lifestyle changes.

How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?

Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. MacIsaac will work with you to identify triggers, discuss lifestyle modifications (diet, sleep, stress management), and recommend acute treatments to stop a migraine when it occurs (e.g., triptans, CGRP antagonists). For frequent or severe migraines, preventive treatments may be prescribed, which can include oral medications, botulinum toxin (Botox) injections, or newer CGRP monoclonal antibodies. A personalized treatment plan is key.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and how is it treated?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. Treatment focuses on managing acute relapses (often with corticosteroids), slowing disease progression with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs), and managing symptoms (like fatigue, spasticity, pain, bladder problems). Dr. MacIsaac can provide a comprehensive overview of MS and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific type of MS and disease activity.

1964 Fort St, Suite 324
Victoria, BC V8R 6R3

Phone: (778) 440-8799 | Fax: (888) 597-3393

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. MacIsaac is a licensed Neurologist 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 is typically required for consultations with Dr. MacIsaac for services covered by the provincial health plan.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/354285/MacIsaac%2CRyan