Dr. Shannon Louise Walker is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at Kincade David Dr in Penticton, BC, Dr. Walker is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Walker 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. As a certified specialist in Respirology (also known as Pulmonology), Dr. Walker focuses 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. Walker serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions.
Dr. Shannon Louise Walker earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 1987. Following this, Dr. Walker completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 38 years of specialized practice since 1987, Dr. Walker's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Walker 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. Walker's medical practice philosophy include: a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and lifestyle; empowering patients through clear education about their lung condition and active involvement in their management; a holistic view of respiratory health, considering all factors that impact breathing and well-being. Dr. Walker provides consultations in English.
As a Respirologist, Dr. Shannon Louise Walker diagnoses and manages a wide array of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including but not limited to:
Lung Infections
- Pneumonia: Addressing acute lung infections to ensure proper recovery and prevent complications.
- Tuberculosis (Pulmonary): Respiratory assessment and follow-up for patients undergoing treatment for tuberculosis.
- Bronchitis (Acute): Treating acute inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by viral infections, leading to cough and mucus.
Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild
- Other Interstitial Lung Diseases: Comprehensive diagnostic workup and tailored management for diverse conditions causing diffuse lung scarring and inflammation.
- Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Diagnosing and treating lung inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to inhaled organic dusts, molds, or chemicals.
Pleural Diseases
- 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): Identifying the underlying cause, such as viral infection or autoimmune disease, and managing pain and inflammation.
This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Walker, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic for more information.
- Asthma Management and Education: Ongoing management and support for individuals living with asthma of all severities.
- Diagnostic Bronchoscopy: Performing flexible bronchoscopy to directly visualize the airways, obtain biopsies, and collect samples for diagnosing lung infections, inflammation, or cancer.
- 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 Rehabilitation Program Referral: Coordinating with pulmonary rehabilitation teams to support patients with chronic lung diseases.
- COPD Management and Education: Multifaceted approach to managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including emphysema and chronic bronchitis, focusing on symptom relief, smoking cessation, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Walker. 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. Shannon Louise Walker 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 Kincade David Dr, 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. Walker frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:
- At Dr. Walker's clinic, addressing snoring very loudly, choking or gasping for air during sleep, and feeling tired all day means focusing on patient goals. Achieving feeling more confident in managing their respiratory condition day-to-day helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to playing with their children or grandchildren with more ease.
- Dr. Walker provides dedicated support for patients going through experiencing breathing problems related to their work environment, always aiming for positive outcomes like an effective and personalized management plan for their chronic respiratory illness, so they can comfortably and happily return to a full range of activities such as feeling less anxious about sudden shortness of breath.
- Dr. Walker often consults with patients whose living with COPD (emphysema or chronic bronchitis) and wanting to breathe better significantly limits their enjoyment of their child being able to keep up with peers during play and sports or impacts their well-being. The clear goal of care is to achieve quitting smoking and improving their overall lung health outlook and thereby restore their active and healthy lifestyle.
- Many people seek Dr. Walker's professional help and expertise when dealing with needing help to quit smoking and improve their lung health. The mutually agreed upon, collaborative goal is consistently reduced anxiety related to their breathing difficulties, allowing a confident and satisfying return to valued life activities like being able to managing a full day of activities without needing excessive rest due to breathlessness.
Your personalized treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Walker, will be tailored to address your specific respiratory needs and health goals. Dr. Walker is dedicated to providing expert care and empowering patients with the knowledge and tools to achieve their best possible respiratory health.
Dr. Walker's practice, Kincade David Dr, is situated in the Penticton Central, South End, Kaledon, Okanagan Falls, Naramata Bench (Rural South) neighborhood of Penticton. The clinic is conveniently located near Gyro Park and is accessible via South Okanagan-Similkameen Transit System (BC Transit). Please inquire about parking when you schedule your visit.
- Can Dr. Walker help manage chronic conditions like asthma or COPD?
- Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Walker 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. Walker 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 can I expect at my first appointment with Dr. Walker at Kincade David Dr?
- The first visit with Dr. Walker will typically involve a comprehensive respiratory assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of the patient's medical history, the nature and timeline of their current respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath, wheezing), how these symptoms impact their daily activities, smoking history, environmental exposures, and any previous treatments. Dr. Walker 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. Walker will discuss her diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations (like PFTs, sleep study, or bronchoscopy if needed), and will outline potential treatment options, working with the patient to establish health goals.
- Do I typically need a referral to see a Respirologist (Pulmonologist) like Dr. Walker?
- Yes, in BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Respirologist like Dr. Walker 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. Walker 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. Walker do?
- A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Walker 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.
- What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Walker 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. Walker 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. Walker 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. Walker 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 Kincade David Dr about any potential out-of-pocket costs and to check with their private insurance, if any.
Kincade David Dr
550 Carmi Ave, Penticton Regional Hospital, RESPIRATORY DEPARTMENT, David Kampe Tower
Penticton, BC, V2A 3G6
Phone: (250) 493-4773
Dr. Shannon Louise Walker 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: 8049
Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/305119/Walker%2CShannon
A referral from a family physician or another specialist is typically required to see Dr. Walker. Dr. Walker 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.