Dr. Samuel Yip – Neurologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Samuel Yip 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 Vancouver's Fairview neighborhood, he is an integral part of the local medical community. The clinic offers a supportive environment for patients and families navigating neurological conditions, emphasizing compassionate and comprehensive care. Dr. Yip adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring every patient receives safe and ethical medical attention.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada) and holds specialty certification as a Neurologist. His professional credentials include certifications from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting his expertise and commitment to ongoing medical excellence. Dr. Yip continually updates his knowledge to incorporate the latest advancements in neurological care, ensuring his patients benefit from evidence-based treatment approaches.

Driven by a commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Yip adopts a holistic approach to neurological health, emphasizing thorough evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and patient education. He believes in building strong, collaborative relationships with his patients and their families to support optimal health outcomes. Fluent in both English and Cantonese, he strives to make his patients feel comfortable and well-informed throughout their care journey in Vancouver.

Dr. Samuel Yip addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)

• 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.
• Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
• Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.

Stroke & Cerebrovascular Diseases

• Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel supplying blood to the brain is obstructed, leading to brain cell damage.
• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) / Mini-Stroke: A temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, often a warning sign for a future stroke.
• Carotid Artery Stenosis (Symptomatic): Narrowing of the carotid arteries in the neck, increasing stroke risk if it causes neurological symptoms.

Multiple Sclerosis & Demyelinating Diseases

• Transverse Myelitis: Inflammation of the spinal cord, often causing weakness, sensory changes, and autonomic dysfunction below the level of the lesion.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Relapsing-Remitting, Primary Progressive, Secondary Progressive: A chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) by damaging the myelin sheath.
• Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD): An autoimmune inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord.

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

• Comprehensive Neurological Consultation & Examination: In-depth evaluation of symptoms related to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and diagnostic planning.
• 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.
• 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.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
• Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
• Second Opinion Consultations for Neurological Disorders: Providing expert second opinions on complex neurological diagnoses and proposed treatment plans to ensure informed patient decision-making.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Yip 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.

Located in the vibrant Vancouver neighborhood of Fairview, Dr. Yip's clinic operates within a well-equipped neurology department that offers accessible and comprehensive care. The facility provides convenient access via public transit, with options including TransLink's SkyTrain (Expo, Millennium, Canada Lines), bus routes, SeaBus, and West Coast Express (Waterfront station). The clinic building is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of movement for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, making visits straightforward for those arriving by car. Patients can enjoy scenic views of Vancouver Lookout and the surrounding cityscape while receiving expert neurological care.

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

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Yip, 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. Yip's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).

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

Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Yip 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.

How does Dr. Yip manage Parkinson's disease?

Management of Parkinson's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms and improving quality of life. This typically involves medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain (like levodopa) or mimic its effects. Other medications can help with non-motor symptoms. Dr. Yip will also emphasize the importance of exercise, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. For some patients with advanced Parkinson's disease, Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery may be an option. Care is highly individualized.

When should I consider seeing a Neurologist?

You should consider seeing a Neurologist if you experience persistent or concerning symptoms such as: severe or frequent headaches (especially if new or different), chronic dizziness or vertigo, numbness or tingling in your limbs, unexplained weakness, seizures or blackouts, memory problems or cognitive decline, difficulties with movement or coordination (like tremors or unsteady gait), or significant changes in vision not explained by eye problems. Your family doctor can evaluate your symptoms and refer you to a neurologist like Dr. Yip if needed.

How are migraines typically managed by a Neurologist?

Migraine management is multifaceted. Dr. Yip 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.

8th floor, Gordon & Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre 8299B-2775 Laurel St
Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9

Phone: (604) 875-5126 | Fax: (604) 269-3755

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Yip 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. Yip 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/326562/Yip%2CSamuel