Dr. Scott Apperley – Pulmonologist | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Scott Apperley is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Apperley is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Apperley is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and upholds the highest professional and ethical standards of medical practice in BC. Dr. Apperley serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions as a certified specialist in Respirology (also known as Pulmonology), focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system. The goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for patients with breathing disorders.

Dr. Scott Apperley earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 2012. Following this, Dr. Apperley completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 13 years of specialized practice since 2012, Dr. Apperley's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Apperley is dedicated to ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest advancements in respiratory medicine to provide optimal patient care.

Key aspects of Dr. Apperley's medical practice philosophy include: a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in respiratory care; collaborating with family physicians and other specialists to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care. Dr. Apperley provides consultations in English.

As a Respirologist, Dr. Scott Apperley diagnoses and manages a wide array of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including but not limited to:

Pleural Diseases

• Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung - Follow-up Care): Monitoring patients after initial treatment (e.g., chest tube) for a collapsed lung.
• Pleural Effusion: Diagnosing the cause and managing the buildup of excess fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall (pleural space).
• Pleurisy (Pleuritis): Treating inflammation of the pleura (the tissues lining the lungs and chest cavity), which causes sharp chest pain, especially during breathing.

Lung Infections

• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Managing the lung-related aspects of this infectious bacterial disease.
• Bronchitis (Acute): Differentiating from chronic bronchitis and providing symptomatic relief for short-term airway inflammation.
• Pneumonia: Addressing acute lung infections to ensure proper recovery and prevent complications.

Airway Diseases

• Emphysema: Managing this lung condition where the air sacs (alveoli) are damaged and enlarged, causing breathlessness.
• Asthma: Comprehensive care for reversible airway obstruction characterized by wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Treating progressive lung diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Apperley, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.

• Management of Pneumonia and Lung Infections: Diagnosis and treatment of various lung infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal pneumonia, and coordination of follow-up care.
• Asthma Management and Education: Ongoing management and support for individuals living with asthma of all severities.
• Chest Imaging Interpretation: Expert review and interpretation of chest X-rays, CT scans, and other thoracic imaging studies to identify and assess lung abnormalities.
• Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) Interpretation: Expert interpretation of a full range of pulmonary function tests (spirometry, lung volumes, diffusing capacity, bronchoprovocation) to assess lung health and diagnose conditions like asthma and COPD.
• Inhaler Technique and Respiratory Device Training: Providing detailed instruction and education on the correct use of various inhalers, nebulizers, and other respiratory devices.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Apperley. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any test or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation or speak with your referring physician.

All services by Dr. Scott Apperley adhere to the scope of practice for Respirologists in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Scott Apperley's practice, the primary aim is to work collaboratively with you to manage your respiratory condition effectively, improve your breathing, and enhance your overall quality of life. Dr. Apperley frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• Patients experiencing fluid buildup around their lungs making it hard to breathe often express a desire to improve their respiratory health and function. At Dr. Apperley's practice, a key objective is better understanding of how to use their inhalers and medications correctly, which directly supports their ability to fully engage in going on outings with family and friends without constant worry about their breathing.
• The path to improved respiratory wellness, especially when facing unexplained weight loss combined with a persistent cough, involves working systematically towards being able to be more physically active without severe breathlessness. Dr. Apperley expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including managing their inhalers or other respiratory medications correctly and effectively.
• Patients presenting with their child having persistent coughing, wheezing, or frequent respiratory illnesses can find lasting relief and achieve the important outcome of feeling more confident in managing their respiratory condition day-to-day under Dr. Apperley's experienced care. This frequently allows them to resume concentrating better at work or school without distraction from respiratory symptoms without the former limitations or discomfort.
• Dr. Apperley understands that dealing with feeling short of breath much of the time, even with little activity can be challenging. That's why his treatment plans are geared towards achieving effective relief from symptoms related to pleural effusions, helping patients comfortably get back to playing with their children or grandchildren with more ease and feeling their best.

Your personalized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Apperley, will be tailored to address your specific respiratory needs and health goals. Dr. Apperley is dedicated to providing expert care and empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to achieve their best possible respiratory health.

Dr. Apperley's practice, a respiratory clinic in Vancouver, is situated in the Yaletown, Downtown South neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Vancouver Lookout and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Please inquire about parking when you schedule your visit.

What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Apperley at the clinic?

A first appointment with Dr. Apperley typically involves a comprehensive respiratory assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, current respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath, wheezing), how symptoms impact daily activities, smoking history, environmental exposures, and previous treatments. Dr. Apperley will then perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the respiratory system. Any prior imaging (Chest X-rays, CT scans) or test results (like PFTs) will be reviewed. Based on this evaluation, Dr. Apperley will discuss diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations (like PFTs, sleep study, or bronchoscopy if needed), and outline potential treatment options, working with you to establish health goals.

Can Dr. Apperley help manage chronic conditions like asthma or COPD?

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Apperley are experts in the long-term management of chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis). After a thorough assessment, Dr. Apperley develops a personalized management plan. This may include prescribing appropriate inhaler medications (relievers and controllers), educating patients on correct inhaler technique, developing action plans for flare-ups, advising on trigger avoidance, recommending smoking cessation programs, and coordinating pulmonary rehabilitation if beneficial. The goal is to optimize symptom control, reduce exacerbations, improve lung function, and enhance overall quality of life.

What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Apperley recommend them?

Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) are a group of non-invasive breathing tests that measure how well the lungs are working. They assess lung volume, airflow rates, and gas exchange. Dr. Apperley might recommend PFTs to help diagnose conditions like asthma, COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or to assess the severity of a known lung disease, monitor its progression, or evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. Common PFTs include spirometry, lung volume measurement, and diffusing capacity tests.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Apperley covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations and medically necessary assessments by a registered specialist Respirologist like Dr. Apperley are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic tests like PFTs and bronchoscopies ordered by a specialist are also usually covered. However, some specific treatments, devices (e.g., CPAP machines, some specialized inhalers), or medications may not be fully covered or may have co-payments depending on provincial formularies and private insurance. It's always best for patients to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any.

What does a Respirologist / Pulmonologist like Dr. Apperley do?

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Apperley is a medical doctor (physician) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases and conditions of the lungs and respiratory system. This includes conditions like asthma, COPD (emphysema, chronic bronchitis), pneumonia, lung cancer, sleep apnea, interstitial lung diseases, and pleural diseases. Their goal is to improve respiratory health, alleviate symptoms like shortness of breath and cough, and enhance the quality of life for people with breathing problems. They use various diagnostic tools like pulmonary function tests and bronchoscopy, and treatments including medications, inhalers, oxygen therapy, and management of devices like CPAP machines.

Unit 8B - 1081 Burrard St, Pacific Lung Centre- St. Paul's Hospital
Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6

Phone: (604) 806-8818

Dr. Scott Apperley is a licensed Respirologist in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: 68845

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/333307/Apperley%2CScott

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is typically required to see Dr. Apperley. Dr. Apperley and the team are dedicated to providing comprehensive respiratory care. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or severe difficulty breathing, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.