Dr. Twila-Faye Hazel Burgmann – Gastroenterologist | Kamloops, BC

Dr. Twila-Faye Hazel Burgmann is a dedicated Gastroenterologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide array of disorders affecting the digestive system in adult patients, and may also see older adolescents for certain conditions. Practicing at a gastroenterology clinic or hospital department in Kamloops, BC, she is a key member of the local medical community. Her practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). She provides comprehensive care for a wide range of digestive system disorders, including conditions affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, and pancreas, utilizing diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopy.

Dr. Burgmann received her medical degree from the University of British Columbia (Canada). She holds specialty certification as a Gastroenterologist and maintains key certifications including those from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her extensive training and certification underpin her commitment to delivering high-quality digestive health care.

Her clinical philosophy emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient education on GI conditions and lifestyle modifications, early and accurate diagnosis through advanced procedures, and personalized treatment plans. She is dedicated to serving her patients in Kamloops with compassionate, comprehensive, and accessible care, providing services in English to ensure clear communication and understanding.

Dr. Twila-Faye Burgmann diagnoses and treats a wide range of digestive system disorders, including:

Esophageal, Stomach & Upper GI Disorders

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) / Acid Reflux / Heartburn: Chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and potential complications like esophagitis.
• Hiatal Hernia & Paraesophageal Hernia: Condition where part of the stomach pushes upward through an opening (hiatus) in the diaphragm into the chest, potentially contributing to GERD and other symptoms.

Functional Gastrointestinal & Motility Disorders

• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction & Anorectal Disorders (e.g., Dyssynergic Defecation): Inability to correctly relax and coordinate pelvic floor muscles to facilitate a normal bowel movement, often requiring specialized testing like anorectal manometry and biofeedback therapy.
• Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome: A disorder characterized by recurrent, stereotypical episodes of intense nausea and vomiting lasting for hours or days, with symptom-free intervals in between.

Small & Large Intestine (Colorectal) Disorders

• Celiac Disease & Gluten Sensitivity: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten ingestion, damaging the small intestine. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity involves GI symptoms related to gluten without the autoimmune damage.
• Colorectal Polyps (Adenomatous, Serrated) & Colorectal Cancer Prevention/Screening: Abnormal growths in the colon or rectum that can be precursors to colorectal cancer. Screening (e.g., colonoscopy, FIT) is vital for removal of polyps, prevention, and early detection of cancer.
• Microscopic Colitis (Lymphocytic & Collagenous Colitis): Inflammation of the colon that is only visible under a microscope when biopsies are examined, a common cause of chronic watery diarrhea, particularly in older adults.

This list is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific digestive condition, please consult with Dr. Twila-Faye Burgmann.

• Capsule Endoscopy (Small Bowel & Colon): Non-invasive procedure where the patient swallows a vitamin-pill sized camera that takes pictures of the small intestine (for obscure GI bleeding, Crohn's disease) or colon (as an alternative to colonoscopy in select cases).
• Management of Functional Dyspepsia & Functional Abdominal Pain Syndrome: Diagnosis and management of chronic upper abdominal pain or discomfort (dyspepsia) or generalized abdominal pain without an identifiable structural cause, often involving lifestyle, dietary, and neuromodulator therapies.
• Interpretation & Correlation of Advanced Digestive Health Diagnostic Tests: Expert analysis and clinical correlation of results from endoscopies, biopsies, imaging studies (CT, MRI, MRCP, ultrasound), breath tests (e.g., for H. pylori, SIBO, lactose intolerance), stool tests (e.g., calprotectin, FIT), motility studies, and genetic testing for GI conditions.
• Gastrointestinal Motility Disorder Evaluation & Management Coordination: Initial evaluation of symptoms suggestive of GI motility disorders (e.g., gastroparesis, achalasia, chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction), with coordination for specialized testing like esophageal manometry, antroduodenal manometry, wireless motility capsule, or gastric emptying studies, and subsequent management strategies.
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) with Fine Needle Aspiration/Biopsy (FNA/FNB): Procedure combining endoscopy with ultrasound to obtain high-resolution images and tissue samples (FNA/FNB) of the digestive tract wall, surrounding organs (pancreas, liver, adrenal glands, gallbladder), and lymph nodes for staging cancers or diagnosing lesions.
• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) - Diagnostic & Therapeutic: Specialized procedure combining upper endoscopy and X-rays to diagnose and treat problems of the bile and pancreatic ducts, such as gallstone removal from bile duct, stent placement for strictures or leaks, and sphincterotomy.
• Enteroscopy (e.g., Double-Balloon, Single-Balloon, Spiral Enteroscopy): Advanced endoscopic techniques allowing deep visualization, biopsy, and therapy within the small intestine, beyond the reach of standard endoscopes, for conditions like obscure bleeding or small bowel tumors.

Note: This list provides a general overview. Specific procedures and treatments are determined after a thorough evaluation. Discuss with Dr. Burgmann for care relevant to your specific condition.

All medical and surgical services (if applicable) are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and relevant gastroenterological care guidelines. Contact the clinic or your referring physician regarding new patient intake and referral processes.

Located within a reputable medical facility in Kamloops's Downtown Kamloops, South Shore East (Valleyview) neighborhood, Dr. Burgmann's practice is easily accessible to patients. The clinic is situated near Thompson Rivers University (TRU), making it convenient for students and staff seeking specialized digestive health care. Patients can utilize the Kamloops Transit System (BC Transit) for public transportation, with stops nearby. The facility is wheelchair accessible, ensuring ease of access for all patients. Metered street parking and nearby parking lots provide flexible options for those arriving by private vehicle, facilitating a comfortable and convenient experience for every patient.

Are consultations and procedures like endoscopies with Dr. Burgmann, a Gastroenterologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations with a licensed Gastroenterologist like Dr. Burgmann, as well as most diagnostic procedures (e.g., endoscopies for investigating symptoms, biopsies for medical reasons) and treatments for provincially insured digestive conditions (e.g., IBD, celiac disease, screening colonoscopies as per provincial guidelines, liver disease management), are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when a referral from a family doctor or another specialist is in place. Procedures considered purely for screening outside of guidelines, or for non-medical reasons, and some advanced technologies or specific drug therapies might have different coverage. It's crucial to discuss coverage specifics for any proposed treatment or procedure with Dr. Burgmann's office, the hospital/clinic's financial services, or Medical Services Plan (MSP) beforehand.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Burgmann, a Gastroenterologist?

Yes, in nearly all cases, a referral from your family physician or another specialist (such as an internist or surgeon) is required to schedule an appointment with a Gastroenterologist like Dr. Burgmann for services covered by the provincial health plan. Gastroenterological issues often require initial assessment and preliminary investigations by your primary care provider. The referral ensures that a specialist consultation is appropriate, helps with prioritizing appointments, and facilitates coordinated care, including the transfer of relevant medical information.

Will I be asleep for my endoscopy or colonoscopy with Dr. Burgmann?

For most endoscopic procedures like upper endoscopy (gastroscopy) and colonoscopy, patients are typically given sedation to help them relax and be comfortable. This is often called 'conscious sedation' or 'moderate sedation,' meaning you'll be drowsy and may not remember much of the procedure, but you won't be under general anesthesia (completely unconscious with a breathing tube). The specific type and level of sedation can vary and will be discussed with you by Dr. Burgmann or the anesthesia provider beforehand. Because of the sedation, you will need to have someone accompany you to drive you home after the procedure.

Are there significant risks associated with procedures like gastroscopy or colonoscopy?

Gastroscopy (upper endoscopy) and colonoscopy are generally very safe procedures, especially when performed by an experienced Gastroenterologist like Dr. Burgmann. Complications are uncommon. Potential risks can include bleeding, particularly if polyps are removed or biopsies are taken; perforation (a tear in the wall of the digestive tract); infection (rare); or adverse reactions to the sedative medication used. Before your procedure, Dr. Burgmann will thoroughly discuss the specific potential risks and benefits based on your individual health and the reason for the procedure, allowing you to make an informed decision.

301-520 St Paul St
Kamloops, BC V2C 2J9

Phone: (250) 372-9700 | Fax: (250) 372-2703

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Burgmann is a licensed Gastroenterologist 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 or appropriate specialist is typically required for consultations with Dr. Burgmann 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/328613/Burgmann%2CTwila-Faye