Hye Gwi Koh

Dr. Hye Gwi Koh provides skilled Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine care for a variety of health concerns, including but not limited to:

Other Common

• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) & Adrenal Fatigue Support (TCM): Restoring vitality and improving overall stamina by addressing underlying deficiencies and energetic blockages from a TCM perspective, often focusing on adrenal and mitochondrial support through TCM principles.
• Bell's Palsy & Facial Paralysis Recovery: Supporting nerve healing and restoring facial muscle control through targeted acupuncture and TCM therapies.

Mental Emotional Sleep

• Addiction Support (e.g., Smoking Cessation, Substance Cravings - NADA Protocol): Supporting detoxification pathways, promoting emotional balance, and strengthening willpower as part of a comprehensive addiction treatment and relapse prevention plan.
• Stress, Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Emotional Imbalances: Supporting emotional well-being by addressing underlying imbalances in organ systems (e.g., Liver Qi Stagnation leading to irritability, Heart Blood Deficiency causing anxiety) that contribute to mood disturbances, worry, or fear.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. TCM diagnosis is based on individual patterns, so if your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Koh can assess your needs.

• Herbal Medicine Preparation & Counseling: Providing guidance on the preparation and proper usage of prescribed herbal formulas, including decoction instructions for raw herbs, dosage for granules or pills, and advice on potential dietary interactions or lifestyle adjustments to enhance herbal efficacy.
• TCM Pulse Diagnosis (Sphygmology): A subtle and sophisticated TCM diagnostic technique requiring extensive training, used to understand the energetic state of your Zang-Fu organs and overall constitution.
• TCM Observation & Palpation Diagnosis: Utilizing traditional TCM observational skills (Wang) and palpation (Qie - beyond just pulse) to gather diagnostic clues about your underlying pattern of imbalance.
• Customized Chinese Herbal Medicine Prescription (R.TCMP Scope): Utilizing the synergistic therapeutic properties of traditional Chinese herbs, often in complex combinations, to restore organ function (Zang-Fu), balance Yin, Yang, Qi, and Blood, and promote profound healing from within by addressing the root cause of illness.
• TCM Tongue Diagnosis: Detailed observation of the tongue's color, shape, size, coating, cracks, and moisture to gain crucial insights into the state of your internal organs, fluid balance, and overall energetic balance.
• Qigong & Tai Chi Exercise Recommendations: Incorporating principles of mindful movement and breath to enhance the therapeutic effects of TCM treatments and empower self-healing.
• TCM Dietary Therapy & Nutritional Counseling (Shi Liao): Using food as medicine according to traditional Chinese dietary wisdom to strengthen organ function (especially Spleen and Stomach), improve digestion, build Qi and Blood, clear pathogenic factors, and promote overall harmony and longevity.

Note: This list highlights some key services. For a full list of therapies offered by Dr. Koh, or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with the scope of practice for Doctor of TCMs in BC and the standards set by The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

At Columbia Integrated Health Centre, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health, well-being, and daily activities. Dr. Koh frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Patients struggling with brain fog, difficulty concentrating, or poor memory can find dedicated support from Dr. Koh. The therapeutic focus is on achieving enjoying consistently more restful, deeper, and restorative sleep patterns, waking up refreshed, using a range of TCM modalities to facilitate a return to meaningful daily activities such as sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema or a play.
• Many patients have found lasting relief from digestive issues like bloating, gas, cramps, constipation, or diarrhea (IBS-like symptoms) and achieved improved mobility, flexibility, and range of motion in previously stiff or painful joints and muscles under the care of Dr. Koh, allowing them to re-engage with activities such as engaging in mindful practices with a calmer and more centered state of mind with renewed vitality and ease.
• Rediscover your ability to managing daily stress with a greater sense of calm, focus, and emotional resilience without the burden of dizziness, lightheadedness, or vertigo that affects my balance and daily activities. Dr. Koh focuses on TCM treatment plans that lead to experiencing more regular, balanced, and manageable menstrual cycles with substantially reduced PMS or PMDD symptoms, integrating various therapeutic techniques to support your body's healing.
• If looking for a holistic approach to managing a chronic health condition or autoimmune issue is affecting your ability to participate in working at a desk or computer with reduced neck, shoulder, or back tension and clearer mental focus, Dr. Koh's TCM approach aims for achieving more regular, comfortable, and predictable bowel movements, helping you to regain your stride.

Your personalized TCM treatment plan, developed with Dr. Koh, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives using a holistic and time-tested approach.

Dr. Koh practices at Columbia Integrated Health Centre, situated in the Uptown, Massey Victory Heights neighborhood of New Westminster. The clinic is conveniently located near Westminster Pier Park and is easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Expo Line and local buses. The environment is serene and welcoming, designed to support your healing journey. Metered and paid parking lots are usually available nearby to ensure easy access for patients.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Doctor of TCM in BC?

In British Columbia, patients can generally see a Doctor of TCM, such as a Registered Acupuncturist or Registered TCM Practitioner, directly without a physician's referral due to the province's scope of practice. This is known as direct access. However, while a referral is not legally required, some private or extended health insurance plans may require one for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check with your individual insurance provider to confirm their specific requirements.

What is Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how can a Doctor of TCM help?

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a comprehensive medical system that has been used for thousands of years to diagnose, treat, and prevent illness. It includes therapies such as acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Tui Na massage, cupping, moxibustion, and dietary/lifestyle advice. A Doctor of TCM uses these tools to identify and correct imbalances in the body’s Qi, Blood, Yin, and Yang, addressing the root causes of health issues. This holistic approach aims to restore harmony within the body, helping with a wide range of conditions and promoting long-term health and vitality.

What are Qi and Meridians in TCM?

**Qi** is the vital energy or life force that flows through the body, sustaining health when it moves smoothly and abundantly. **Meridians** are channels or pathways that carry Qi and Blood throughout the body, connecting organs and tissues. Blockages, deficiencies, or excesses in Qi flow can lead to illness or pain. Acupuncture and other TCM therapies work to restore proper Qi flow within these meridians, promoting balance and healing.

What is Acupuncture and how can it help me?

Acupuncture involves inserting very fine, sterile needles into specific points called acupoints along the meridians. This stimulates the flow of Qi, helping to reduce pain, alleviate stress, improve sleep, regulate bodily functions, and boost overall well-being. Many patients find acupuncture a relaxing experience that activates the body’s natural healing response.

Are Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine services covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Services provided by a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac) or Registered TCM Practitioner (R.TCMP) in a private clinic are generally not covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC. Patients usually pay out-of-pocket for these treatments. However, many private and extended health insurance plans offer coverage for services by registered practitioners. It is recommended to verify your insurance policy to understand your coverage options.

What should I expect during my first Acupuncture or TCM appointment?

Your initial appointment typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. It includes a detailed discussion of your health concerns, review of medical history, and assessment of lifestyle, diet, sleep, and emotional well-being. The practitioner will examine your tongue and feel your pulse to determine your TCM pattern diagnosis. A personalized treatment plan will be discussed, which may include acupuncture, herbal formulas, cupping, moxibustion, or lifestyle advice. An initial treatment may be provided during this visit to begin addressing your concerns.

Are Chinese Herbal Medicines safe? (If prescribed by an R.TCMP or Dr.TCM)

When prescribed by a qualified and registered TCM practitioner, Chinese herbal formulas are generally safe and effective. R.TCMPs have extensive training in herbal pharmacology and are skilled in selecting high-quality herbs, identifying potential herb-drug interactions, and contraindications. It is essential to inform your practitioner about all medications and health conditions. Avoid self-prescribing herbs or purchasing from unreliable sources to prevent risks such as incorrect diagnosis, contamination, or adverse interactions. Reputable practitioners source herbs from trusted suppliers that perform quality testing.

Does acupuncture hurt? Are the needles safe?

Acupuncture needles are extremely fine, sterile, and single-use, often thinner than a human hair. Their insertion is usually painless or feels like a tiny prick. Once inserted, you may experience sensations such as dull ache, warmth, tingling, or heaviness, which indicate Qi movement and treatment effectiveness. Most find acupuncture relaxing. All needles are sterile and disposable, ensuring safety. Communicate with your practitioner if discomfort occurs during treatment.

Columbia Integrated Health Centre
756 Columbia St
New Westminster, BC, V3L 3W1

Phone: (778) 862-9250

Dr. Hye Gwi Koh is regulated by the Health Professions Act (British Columbia) in BC and is a registered member of The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

Registration can typically be verified with The College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC.

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture are holistic therapies. It is recommended to also consult with your medical doctor for diagnosis of serious conditions and for emergency medical care. TCM can often complement conventional treatments effectively.