Dr. Stephanie Wai Yin Tsang – Pulmonologist | Maple Ridge, BC

Dr. Stephanie Wai Yin Tsang is a Respirologist / Pulmonologist. Practicing at a respiratory clinic in Maple Ridge, BC, Dr. Tsang is committed to delivering expert, patient-focused care in Respirology. Dr. Tsang 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. Tsang 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. Tsang serves patients with a variety of respiratory conditions.

Dr. Stephanie Wai Yin Tsang earned a Medical Degree (e.g., MD, MBBS, or equivalent) from University Of British Columbia, graduating in 2010. Following this, Dr. Tsang completed specialty training and achieved certification in Respirology from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent recognized body). With over 15 years of specialized practice since 2010, Dr. Tsang's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Respirology (Pulmonology). Dr. Tsang 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. Tsang's medical practice philosophy include: promoting optimal lung function and helping patients achieve the best possible quality of life; a patient-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and lifestyle; a commitment to evidence-based medicine and utilizing the latest advancements in respiratory care. Dr. Tsang is fluent in English and also offers consultations in Cantonese.

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

Airway Diseases

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

Lung Infections

• Bronchitis (Acute): Treating acute inflammation of the bronchial tubes, often caused by viral infections, leading to cough and mucus.
• Pneumonia: Diagnosing and treating infections that inflame the air sacs in one or both lungs, which may fill with fluid or pus (e.g., bacterial, viral, fungal).

Interstitial Lung Diseases Ild

• Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: Identifying and eliminating exposure to the offending antigen, and managing airway inflammation with medication if needed.
• Other Interstitial Lung Diseases: Evaluating and managing a wide range of less common ILDs, including those associated with connective tissue diseases, drug-induced ILD, and unclassifiable ILDs.
• Sarcoidosis (Pulmonary Manifestations): Treating respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain related to pulmonary sarcoidosis.

Pleural Diseases

• Pleural Effusion: Performing diagnostic and therapeutic thoracentesis to remove fluid and identify underlying conditions like infection, heart failure, or malignancy.
• Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung - Follow-up Care): Monitoring patients after initial treatment (e.g., chest tube) for a collapsed lung.
• Pleurisy (Pleuritis): Treating inflammation of the pleura (the tissues lining the lungs and chest cavity), which causes sharp chest pain, especially during breathing.

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

• Inhaler Technique and Respiratory Device Training: Helping patients master the use of their respiratory equipment to improve medication delivery to the lungs.
• Oxygen Therapy Prescription and Management: Ensuring appropriate use and settings for home oxygen therapy.
• Bronchiectasis Management: Care for individuals with permanently damaged and widened airways to reduce exacerbations and maintain lung function.
• Chest Imaging Interpretation: Analyzing radiological images to detect signs of infection, inflammation, tumors, or structural lung changes.
• COPD Management and Education: Providing education and support to empower individuals with COPD to actively participate in their care.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Tsang. 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. Stephanie Wai Yin Tsang 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. Stephanie Wai Yin Tsang'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. Tsang frequently helps patients work towards outcomes such as:

• Dr. Tsang expertly assists individuals in navigating the complexities of wanting to understand their lung function test results. A successful and well-managed treatment outcome, exemplified by successful navigation of the diagnostic process for a complex lung issue, means they can happily and comfortably get back to attending social events and feeling confident in their ability to manage their breathing.
• The primary focus for patients seeking help for a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis and needing specialized care at Dr. Tsang's practice is consistently achieving a clear diagnosis and a better understanding of their specific lung condition. This facilitates a confident and meaningful return to valued daily activities such as walking up a flight of stairs without becoming excessively breathless.
• For those individuals challenged by the daily effects of wheezing sounds or a feeling of tightness in their chest when they breathe, Dr. Tsang offers tailored strategies and effective treatments to reach better understanding of how to use their inhalers and medications correctly. This positive change can mean rediscovering the simple joy of singing or playing a wind instrument if that's a passion.
• Effectively addressing needing to manage their oxygen therapy effectively at home with Dr. Tsang's comprehensive respiratory approach often leads to the desired outcome of being able to travel or engage in hobbies that were previously limited by breathlessness, enabling patients to more freely and confidently engage in playing with their children or grandchildren with more ease and social interactions.

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

Dr. Tsang's respiratory clinic is located in the Central Maple Ridge, Haney neighborhood of Maple Ridge, BC. The clinic enjoys a convenient location near Downtown Maple Ridge (Haney) and is easily accessible via TransLink (Bus, West Coast Express). Patient parking is typically available nearby or on-site.

What are Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), and why might Dr. Tsang 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. Tsang 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. Tsang 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. Tsang 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.

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

Yes, Respirologists like Dr. Tsang 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. Tsang 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. Tsang?

Yes, in BC, a referral from a family doctor (GP) or another specialist is generally required to see a Respirologist like Dr. Tsang 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. Tsang has the necessary background medical information. Patients should speak with their primary care physician or referring doctor if they believe they need a respiratory assessment.

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

A Respirologist (often called a Pulmonologist) like Dr. Tsang 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 some common conditions a Respirologist like Dr. Tsang treats?

Dr. Tsang treats a wide spectrum of disorders affecting breathing and lung health, including asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, including emphysema and chronic bronchitis), pneumonia and other lung infections, sleep apnea, interstitial lung diseases (like pulmonary fibrosis), pleural effusions (fluid around the lungs), and is involved in the diagnosis of lung cancer.

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

The first visit with Dr. Tsang 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. Tsang 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. Tsang will discuss their 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.

308-22230 North Ave, The Chest Clinic
Maple Ridge, BC, V2X 2L5

Phone: (604) 466-8199

Dr. Stephanie Wai Yin Tsang 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: 67209

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/330622/Tsang%2CStephanie

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