Dr. Sen Han Phang – Pulmonologist | Victoria, BC

Dr. Sen Han Phang is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in Victoria, BC, Dr. Phang is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Phang 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. Phang 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. Sen Han Phang earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from Mcmaster University, graduating in 2011. Following this, Dr. Phang completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 14 years of specialized practice since 2011, Dr. Phang's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Phang 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. Phang's medical practice philosophy include: a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and lifestyle; collaborating with family physicians and other specialists to ensure comprehensive and coordinated care. Dr. Phang provides consultations in English.

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

Lung Infections

• Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Involvement in the diagnosis and respiratory management of active pulmonary tuberculosis and latent TB infection, often in collaboration with public health.
• Pneumonia: Addressing acute lung infections to ensure proper recovery and prevent complications.
• Bronchitis (Acute): Treating acute inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by viral infections, leading to cough and mucus.

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Diagnosing and treating lung inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled organic dusts, molds, or chemicals.
• Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): Utilizing antifibrotic medications, oxygen therapy, and supportive care to manage IPF symptoms and slow progression.
• Other Interstitial Lung Diseases: Comprehensive diagnostic workup and tailored management for diverse conditions causing diffuse lung scarring and inflammation.

Airway Diseases

• Bronchiectasis: Managing this chronic condition where damage to the airways causes them to widen and become scarred, leading to recurrent infections and mucus buildup.
• Asthma: Diagnosing and managing all forms of asthma, including allergic, non-allergic, exercise-induced, and occupational asthma, in adults and children.

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

• Diagnostic Bronchoscopy: Performing flexible bronchoscopy to directly visualize the airways, obtain biopsies, and collect samples for diagnosing lung infections, inflammation, or cancer.
• Pleural Effusion Management: Investigating and treating conditions leading to fluid accumulation in the pleural space.
• COPD Management and Education: Providing education and support to empower individuals with COPD to actively participate in their care.
• Inhaler Technique and Respiratory Device Training: Helping patients master the use of their respiratory equipment to improve medication delivery to the lungs.
• Chest Imaging Interpretation: Collaborating with radiologists to integrate imaging findings into the overall diagnostic picture for respiratory conditions.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Phang. 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. Sen Han Phang 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. Sen Han Phang'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. Phang frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Phang's comprehensive care for getting frequent lung infections like bronchitis or pneumonia is meticulously designed to result in feeling supported and well-informed throughout their treatment journey. This allows patients to confidently resume important personal or professional activities such as going on outings with family and friends without constant worry about their breathing without severe breathing worries.
• Understanding the frustration difficulty clearing mucus from their lungs can cause, Dr. Phang tailors treatments to ensure patients achieve their child experiencing fewer asthma attacks and participating more fully in activities, allowing for renewed participation in activities like playing with their children or grandchildren with more ease.
• At Dr. Phang's clinic, addressing snoring very loudly, choking or gasping for air during sleep, and feeling tired all day means focusing on patient goals. Achieving being able to be more physically active without severe breathlessness helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to taking deep, satisfying breaths more often.
• For individuals troubled by concerns about a shadow or spot found on their lung X-ray or CT scan, Dr. Phang's approach is focused on delivering reduced anxiety related to their breathing difficulties. This often makes it possible for them to resume important activities like being able to lie flat in bed comfortably (for some conditions) with better lung health.

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

Dr. Phang's respiratory clinic in Victoria is situated in the Fairfield East, Oaklands neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near Inner Harbour Causeway and is accessible via Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Information regarding parking options can be provided when you call to book your appointment.

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

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

What should I bring to my appointment with Dr. Phang?

Bring your provincial health card (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC card), the referral letter, a list of all current medications (including dosage and frequency for prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, inhalers, and supplements), copies of relevant medical records, imaging reports (Chest X-ray, CT scans – reports are often more useful than just the images themselves initially), any previous Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) results, and a list of any questions you have. If you use inhalers, it’s helpful to bring them to check technique. If being assessed for sleep apnea, a sleep diary or information from a bed partner can be useful.

Are services provided by a Respirologist like Dr. Phang 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. Phang are typically covered by provincial health plans such as Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC, provided you have 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 to inquire with the clinic about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with your private insurance, if any.

What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Phang 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 (how much air the lungs can hold), airflow rates (how quickly air can be moved in and out), and gas exchange (how well oxygen moves from the lungs into the blood). Dr. Phang 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.

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

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Phang 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. Phang 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.

Do I typically need a referral to see a Respirologist (Pulmonologist) like Dr. Phang?

In BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Respirologist like Dr. Phang for consultations and treatments covered by provincial health plans like Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC. This referral helps ensure the consultation is appropriate and that Dr. Phang has the necessary background medical information. Speak with your primary care physician or referring doctor if you believe you need a respiratory assessment.

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

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Phang 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.

1990 Fort St Unit 309
Victoria, BC, V8R 6V4

Phone: (250) 383-0250

Dr. Sen Han Phang 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: 68818

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/358233/Phang%2CSen%20Han

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is typically required to see Dr. Phang. Dr. Phang 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.