Description
About Dr. Samantha Robyn Wong-Merrick
Dr. Samantha Robyn Wong-Merrick, a respected Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN), focuses on empowering women through all stages of life with expert medical and surgical care, from adolescence through menopause and beyond. Practicing at a clinic or hospital setting in Victoria, BC, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. Her practice adheres to the standards and ethical guidelines established by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Wong-Merrick provides comprehensive care across the full scope of Obstetrics and Gynecology, including routine and complex conditions, ensuring tailored treatment plans. She serves women of all ages, offering specialized prenatal and postnatal care, and supports reproductive health and overall well-being.
Dr. Wong-Merrick graduated with an MD from the University of British Columbia in 2013 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds certifications including: Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her commitment to maintaining high standards of medical excellence and ongoing professional development. Her training encompasses a wide range of obstetric and gynecological procedures, diagnostic techniques, and surgical interventions, positioning her as a trusted provider in her community.
With a strong commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Wong-Merrick emphasizes shared decision-making, evidence-based practice, and compassionate communication. She is dedicated to advancing women's health in Victoria through personalized treatment and preventive strategies. Fluent in English and Spanish, she strives to make her patients feel comfortable and informed during every visit, fostering a collaborative approach to health and wellness.
Common Conditions Dr. Samantha Wong-Merrick Addresses
Dr. Samantha Wong-Merrick provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:
Gynecologic Cancers and Precancerous Conditions
- Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) (e.g., Molar Pregnancy): A group of rare pregnancy-related tumors that develop in the uterus from cells that normally form the placenta, requiring careful monitoring and treatment.
- Ovarian Cancer (Epithelial, Germ Cell, Stromal Tumors): Cancer that begins in the ovaries, which can be difficult to detect early and often requires specialized surgical and medical treatment.
- Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) & Vaginal Cancer: Precancerous changes (VAIN) or rare cancers affecting the vagina.
Pregnancy and Childbirth Related Conditions
- Preeclampsia & Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Pregnancy complications characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, often the liver and kidneys.
- Hyperemesis Gravidarum (Severe Morning Sickness): A severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy that can lead to dehydration and weight loss, requiring medical management.
- Preterm Labor & Birth: Labor or delivery that occurs before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy, potentially leading to complications for the newborn.
Screening and Preventative Care
- Bone Density Health (Osteoporosis Screening Referrals): Assessing risk factors for osteoporosis and referring for bone density screening (DEXA scan) when appropriate, especially around menopause.
- HPV Vaccination Counseling: Discussing the benefits and recommendations for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent HPV-related cancers.
- Contraception Counseling & Family Planning: Providing information and access to various methods of birth control to help individuals plan their families.
This list highlights some common conditions managed within Obstetrics and Gynecology and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific health concerns, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Samantha Wong-Merrick or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Services Offered by Dr. Samantha Robyn Wong-Merrick
- Labor and Delivery Management (Vaginal & Cesarean): Professional medical care and support during labor and childbirth, including management of vaginal deliveries, assisted vaginal deliveries (forceps/vacuum if needed), and planned or emergency Cesarean sections (C-sections).
- Diagnostic & Operative Hysteroscopy: Procedure using a thin, lighted scope to examine the inside of the uterus and perform minor surgical treatments such as polyp removal, fibroid resection, or septum correction.
- Postpartum Care & Follow-up: Medical follow-up and support for mothers in the weeks following childbirth, addressing physical recovery, incision care (if applicable), breastfeeding support, contraception planning, and screening for postpartum mood disorders.
- Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Office procedure to take a small sample of the uterine lining (endometrium) for diagnostic purposes, often for abnormal bleeding or suspected abnormalities.
- Surgical Management of Pelvic Organ Prolapse (e.g., Colporrhaphy, Sacrocolpopexy): Reconstructive surgical procedures to correct the descent of pelvic organs like the bladder, uterus, or rectum, often utilizing native tissue repair or mesh augmentation.
- Tubal Ligation / Salpingectomy for Sterilization: Surgical methods for permanent female contraception, including removal of fallopian tubes (salpingectomy) which may also reduce ovarian cancer risk.
Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Wong-Merrick provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical options tailored to individual patient needs within women's health, pregnancy, and childbirth. Specific services offered can be confirmed by contacting the clinic.
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 for insured services.
Practice Location & Accessibility
Dr. Wong-Merrick practices at a well-equipped clinic situated in the Fairfield East neighborhood of Victoria, BC. The facility is conveniently located near the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre (Arena), making it easily accessible for patients. The clinic is served by the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), providing public transportation options. The clinic is wheelchair accessible to accommodate patients with mobility needs. Paid parking options are available nearby, ensuring convenient access for those driving to appointments. The location is situated in a vibrant community setting, offering a comfortable and welcoming environment for all patients seeking obstetric and gynecological care.
Frequently Asked Questions about Obstetrics and Gynecology Care
- Are services from Dr. Wong-Merrick, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations, prenatal care, delivery, gynecological surgeries, and diagnostic procedures performed by a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Wong-Merrick 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 procedures, certain fertility treatments, or non-medically indicated services may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the clinic.
- Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Wong-Merrick, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist?
- 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 Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Wong-Merrick for most consultations and treatments. This ensures coordinated care. Some specific services or clinics (e.g., some sexual health or contraception clinics) might have different access pathways, but for ongoing obstetrical or gynecological care, a referral is standard. Please check with Dr. Wong-Merrick's office or your referring doctor.
- Does Dr. Wong-Merrick discuss or offer the HPV vaccine?
- The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is highly effective in preventing infections with HPV types that cause most cervical cancers, as well as other anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers. Dr. Wong-Merrick can discuss the benefits of the HPV vaccine, current recommendations for different age groups (including catch-up vaccination for adults), and can either provide the vaccine or refer you to where it can be obtained, depending on clinic services and provincial programs.
- At which hospital(s) does Dr. Wong-Merrick deliver babies or perform surgeries?
- Dr. Wong-Merrick is affiliated with affiliated local hospitals. You can confirm the specific hospital(s) where she performs deliveries and gynecological surgeries by contacting Dr. Wong-Merrick's office directly. This information is important for planning your care and delivery.
Contact & Licensing Information
101-1964 Fort St
Victoria, BC V8R 6R3
Phone: (778) 405-4828 | Fax: (778) 787-1887
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Wong-Merrick is a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist 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 qualified healthcare provider is typically required for provincially insured consultations and treatments.
Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/335037/Wong-Merrick%2CSamantha