Dr. Shaun Corey van Pel

Dr. Shaun Corey van Pel provides comprehensive family medical care for a wide variety of health concerns affecting patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Chronic Conditions

• Thyroid Disorders (Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's, Nodules): Adjusting thyroid medication based on symptoms and regular blood tests (TSH, free T4, thyroid antibodies) to maintain optimal thyroid function and well-being.
• Asthma (All Ages) & Allergic Rhinitis: Developing and regularly reviewing personalized asthma action plans, educating on proper inhaler technique (metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, nebulizers), trigger identification and avoidance (allergens, irritants), medication management (relievers, controllers like inhaled corticosteroids, LABAs, LTRAs), and managing asthma exacerbations to improve breathing, prevent flare-ups, and maintain an active lifestyle. Also includes management of associated allergic rhinitis (hay fever).
• Osteoarthritis & Other Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain (e.g., Chronic Back/Neck Pain, Fibromyalgia): Long-term support and care for managing the symptoms of degenerative joint disease and other chronic musculoskeletal pain, focusing on self-management and maintaining an active lifestyle.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - Primary Care Management: Diagnosing IBS based on symptom criteria after ruling out other conditions, and providing primary care management strategies including dietary advice (e.g., low FODMAP diet introduction, fiber management), lifestyle modifications, stress reduction techniques, and symptomatic treatment for abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and/or constipation.

Pediatric Common Issues

• Pediatric Asthma, Eczema & Allergy Management (Primary Care): Diagnosing and managing common chronic conditions in pediatric patients, such as asthma (including education on inhaler/spacer technique, trigger avoidance, development of personalized asthma action plans for home and school), eczema (atopic dermatitis - focusing on skincare, emollients, topical corticosteroids/calcineurin inhibitors, trigger management), and allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Includes initial assessment and guidance for food allergies, with referral to pediatric allergists for confirmation and comprehensive management if indicated.
• Well-Baby & Well-Child Check-ups (Growth, Development, Nutrition, Safety): Ensuring your child meets key developmental stages according to age, receives all recommended preventative health screenings (e.g., vision, hearing, anemia, lead - as per guidelines), and appropriate immunizations in a timely manner.
• Newborn Care & Infant Feeding Support (Breastfeeding, Formula): Ensuring a healthy start for newborns with regular check-ups, timely interventions if issues arise, and resources for parental education and support.

Adult Common Health Issues

• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection - Testing & Eradication Therapy: Confirmation of eradication testing post-treatment to ensure successful clearance of the infection and reduce risks of H. pylori-related gastroduodenal diseases.
• Anemia (Iron Deficiency, Vitamin B12/Folate Deficiency - Diagnosis & Management): Primary care approach to accurately diagnosing and effectively treating common forms of anemia to improve energy levels, cognitive function, exercise tolerance, and overall health. Referral to hematology for complex or unexplained anemia.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) - Symptom Management & Monitoring: Management includes lifestyle advice (fluid management, avoiding bladder irritants), behavioral therapies (timed voiding), and prescription of medications such as alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin, alfuzosin) to relax prostate/bladder neck muscles, or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride, dutasteride) to shrink prostate volume. Monitoring for symptom improvement and medication side effects.

This list offers some examples of common conditions managed in family practice. A diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. van Pel. If your specific health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs.

• Hospital Discharge Follow-Up & Transitions of Care Management: Supporting patients post-hospitalization with continuity of care, clear communication with hospital teams, and proactive management to prevent complications, reduce readmissions, and optimize recovery.
• Grief, Loss & Bereavement Counseling (Initial Supportive Care): Offering compassionate support, active listening, and initial counseling for individuals experiencing grief due to the loss of loved ones, significant life transitions, or other forms of bereavement.
• Diagnosis & Management of Common Acute Infections (Respiratory, Urinary, Skin, GI): Providing timely medical care for a wide range of infections, including diagnosis, appropriate treatment (e.g., antibiotics when indicated by bacterial infection), and advice for symptom relief and recovery.
• Childhood & Adolescent Immunization Administration & Counseling: Administering the complete schedule of publicly funded childhood and adolescent vaccines to protect against serious infectious diseases. Includes catch-up schedules and addressing parental concerns with evidence-based information.
• Occupational Health Aspects & Work-Related Health Concerns (Initial Assessment): Initial evaluation of the impact of work on health and vice-versa.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. van Pel. For a comprehensive understanding of all services, or to discuss your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Family Doctors in BC and the ethical and professional standards set by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Shaun Corey van Pel's practice, family medicine is centered on a collaborative partnership to help individuals like you achieve significant improvements in your health, manage ongoing conditions effectively, and enhance your overall well-being. Dr. van Pel frequently works with patients towards goals such as:

• When feeling constantly thirsty or needing to urinate much more often than before, possibly indicating diabetes impacts daily life, Dr. van Pel helps patients strive for experiencing significantly improved physical function, greater ease of mobility, and markedly reduced daily pain as a result of managing complex musculoskeletal issues or sports injuries under Dr. van Pel's comprehensive guidance, treatment plan, and care coordination with allied health professionals, making activities such as actively and diligently engaging in their prescribed recovery process and rehabilitation program after an unexpected injury, a planned surgery, or a significant medical event by consistently following all professional advice and exercises possible again.
• If needing support, resources, and a concrete plan to help them quit smoking for good this time has put reliably getting a full night of good quality, restorative, and uninterrupted sleep on a consistent basis, which is absolutely foundational to their overall physical health, emotional balance, cognitive function, and daytime productivity on hold, Dr. van Pel works with patients toward receiving necessary, appropriate, and well-coordinated timely referrals to highly-regarded specialists or specialized programs, leading to advanced specialized diagnosis, cutting-edge treatment, or valuable second opinions when required for complex or rare health issues, all facilitated by Dr. van Pel, helping them regain their previous level of function.
• When getting advice on how to manage shift work and its impact on their health affects a patient's ability to feeling consistently rested, fully alert, and cognitively sharp enough to drive safely and defensively for both short daily commutes and much longer, more demanding road trips or family vacations, Dr. van Pel works with them to develop a plan. Success means reaching achieving more restorative and consistent sleep patterns and experiencing increased daytime energy levels and cognitive function after effectively addressing underlying sleep disturbances with Dr. van Pel's comprehensive assessment and management plan and getting back to their valued pursuits.

Your personalized healthcare plan, developed in discussion with Dr. van Pel, will be thoughtfully designed to help you reach your specific functional, preventative, and wellness objectives. He believes in empowering patients with the knowledge and support needed to take an active role in their health journey.

Dr. van Pel practices at a family medical clinic in Nanaimo, situated in the South Nanaimo, University District neighborhood of Nanaimo. The clinic is conveniently located near Nanaimo North Town Centre and is accessible via Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). Street parking and nearby public or paid lots typically offer convenient options for visitors.

Do I need a referral to see a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC?

Generally, you do not need a referral to see a family doctor in BC if that doctor is accepting new patients. However, finding a family doctor who is accepting new patients can be challenging. Provincial resources, such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website, may offer assistance in finding a doctor. A referral from a family doctor is usually required to see specialists.

How can I find a family doctor (Family Doctor) in BC who is accepting new patients?

To find a family doctor in BC accepting new patients, check the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC website; they often have a "Find a Doctor" tool. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Contact local community health centres or new patient clinics. Finding a family doctor may take time and effort.

What if Dr. van Pel works in a Family Health Team or group practice? Will I always see Dr. van Pel?

Dr. van Pel practices as part of a team-based practice, which means you have access to other healthcare professionals. While the goal is to promote continuity with Dr. van Pel, for some routine follow-ups or specific services, you might be seen by another trusted member of the team. The clinic will strive to have you see Dr. van Pel for complex or ongoing issues.

What should I do if I have an urgent medical issue when the clinic is closed?

For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. For urgent, non-life-threatening issues, consider visiting an urgent care centre or walk-in clinic. Check with our clinic during regular hours to see if after-hours services are available. Our clinic voicemail [(250) 753-3431] may also provide instructions or resources for after-hours care.

Does Dr. van Pel at your clinic offer virtual (video) or phone appointments?

Yes, Dr. van Pel offers virtual (video) and/or phone appointments for certain consultations when clinically appropriate. These are suitable for discussing some test results, managing stable chronic conditions, or prescription renewals (not controlled substances). Many conditions still require in-person visits. Discuss with our reception staff or Dr. van Pel if a virtual appointment is suitable for your needs. Provincial health plan coverage for virtual visits may vary; please check with our clinic regarding any potential fees for uninsured virtual services.

Is seeing a family doctor (Family Doctor) covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC in BC?

Medically necessary visits to a family doctor are typically covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC for eligible residents with a valid provincial health card. Some services (e.g., cosmetic procedures, travel medicine consultations) may not be covered and might have an associated fee. Confirm with our clinic if you have questions about specific non-insured services or potential fees.

What exactly is a family doctor (Family Doctor) and what is their role?

A family doctor (BC) is a physician who has completed post-graduate training in family medicine. They are skilled in providing continuous and comprehensive medical care, health maintenance, and preventive services to patients of all ages. This includes diagnosing and treating illnesses, managing long-term health conditions, offering health education, and acting as your advocate within the healthcare system.

103-650 Terminal Ave
Nanaimo, BC, V9R 5E2

Phone: (250) 753-3431

Dr. Shaun Corey van Pel is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member in good standing with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

Registration Number: 68374

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/337105/van%20Pel%2CShaun

Family doctors like Dr. van Pel are skilled in managing a wide range of health issues. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your family doctor about all aspects of your health, including any treatments received from other practitioners.