About
Dr. Shafina Sachedina 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 Vancouver hospital department in the Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South neighbourhood, she is an integral part of the local medical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). Dr. Sachedina provides comprehensive care for a wide range of neurological conditions, including headaches, neuropathy, stroke, and cognitive disorders, offering reassurance and expert guidance to her patients. She strives to deliver personalized, patient-centered care in a supportive environment, ensuring that each individual receives tailored treatment plans and ongoing support for their nervous system health.
She graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB BCh BAO) from the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. She holds specialty certification as a Neurologist through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, reflecting her expertise and commitment to neurological care. Her credentials and ongoing professional development ensure that she remains current with the latest advances and standards in neurology.
Dr. Sachedina’s clinical philosophy emphasizes a holistic, evidence-based approach to neurological health. She is committed to patient education, fostering open communication, and supporting her patients through every stage of diagnosis and treatment. Fluent in English, she provides compassionate, thorough care to adult patients in Vancouver, focusing on improving quality of life and empowering her patients to manage their neurological conditions effectively.
Dr. Shafina Sachedina addresses a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Common Neurological Symptoms (Requiring Evaluation)
- Dizziness, Vertigo & Balance Problems: Sensations of spinning, unsteadiness, or lightheadedness that may indicate an underlying neurological issue.
- Memory Loss & Cognitive Changes: Difficulties with memory, concentration, language, or problem-solving that interfere with daily life.
- Persistent or Severe Headaches / Migraines: Head pain that is frequent, debilitating, or associated with other neurological symptoms like aura or nausea.
Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders
- Refractory (Drug-Resistant) Epilepsy: Epilepsy that does not respond adequately to treatment with two or more appropriately chosen anti-seizure medications.
- Focal (Partial) Epilepsy (with or without secondary generalization): Seizures originating in one area of the brain, which may or may not spread to become generalized.
- Status Epilepticus: A medical emergency where a seizure lasts too long or when seizures occur close together without recovery in between.
Headache Disorders
- Tension-Type Headache: The most common type of primary headache, often described as a constant ache or pressure around the head, especially at the temples or back of the head and neck.
- Migraine (with or without Aura): A type of headache that can cause severe throbbing pain or a pulsing sensation, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
- Trigeminal Neuralgia & Other Facial Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain conditions affecting the trigeminal nerve, causing severe facial pain.
This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific neurological concerns, please consult with Dr. Shafina Sachedina.
- 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.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) - Performance & Interpretation: Recording and analysis of electrical activity in the brain, primarily used to diagnose epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring (IONM) - Consultation/Oversight: Monitoring of nervous system function during surgeries that pose a risk to neurological structures.
- Management of General Neurological Conditions: Ongoing care for a variety of common neurological issues, including follow-up, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
Note: This list provides a general overview. Treatment plans are individualized. Discuss with Dr. Sachedina 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. Sachedina practices within a specialized neurology department in Vancouver, situated in the vibrant neighbourhood of Shaughnessy, Arbutus Ridge South. The facility is easily accessible via Canada Line stations, with convenient public transit options including TransLink’s SkyTrain Expo, Millennium, and Canada Lines, as well as bus services, SeaBus, and West Coast Express from Waterfront. The clinic location is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Parking is available at or near the facility, providing added convenience for those arriving by car. As a key medical facility within a larger hospital complex, the practice offers a welcoming environment dedicated to expert neurological care, serving the adult population of Vancouver and surrounding areas.
- Are consultations and treatments with Dr. Sachedina, a Neurologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Neurologist like Dr. Sachedina, 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. Sachedina's office or Medical Services Plan (MSP).
- Do I need a referral to see Dr. Sachedina, a Neurologist?
- Yes, a referral from your family physician or another specialist is almost always required to see a Neurologist like Dr. Sachedina 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. Sachedina 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. Sachedina 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. Sachedina if needed.
- What can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Sachedina?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Sachedina will likely be quite thorough. She will take a detailed medical history, including your current symptoms, past illnesses, family history of neurological conditions, and any medications you are taking. A comprehensive neurological examination will be performed, which assesses things like your mental status, cranial nerves (vision, hearing, facial movement), strength, coordination, reflexes, and sensation. Based on this, Dr. Sachedina may discuss potential diagnoses, order further tests (like an MRI, EEG, or blood work), or suggest initial treatment options. Bring a list of your medications and any relevant medical records or imaging reports if you have them.
4500 Oak St, Bc Childrens Hospital, Pediatric Neurology
Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1
Phone: (604) 875-2345
The facility is wheelchair accessible.
Dr. Sachedina 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. Sachedina 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/344593/Sachedina%2CShafina